eco-local living winter 2011

2 ecolocalliving.com

Saratoga NutritionFunctional Medicine and Nutrition

Historic Roosevelt Baths and SpaSaratoga Springs, NY

When you Support your Body, You Support your Life

Here's what people are saying…

-Treatment of the Individual-Lifestyle Breakthroughs/Integrative Health Coaching

Workshops, Lectures and moreMary Beth McCue R.D., L.D.N., C.D.N. ,

www.SaratogaNutrition.com 518.257.6530

ecolocalliving.com 3


A UNIQUE EXPERIENCETake a stroll down

CHARLTON BEER ALLEYwith a wide variety of over a

100 imported and domestic beers...the best selection in Saratoga County!

OVER 40 FLAVORSof Gourmet Teas

Fresh baked turnovers, cream puffs, mini-cheesecakes,carrot cakes and chocolate chip cookies from

locally owned and operated bakeries

Handmade Chocolates, over a dozen varieties of peanut butter, variety of local honey, specialty sauces,

buffalo jerky and sausage, gourmet popcorn

Oversized sandwiches & homemade soups

Ethanol-Free Gas! We’ve got MPG - More Power per Gallon!

Yes, we have free Wi-Fi

UPCOMING COMMUNITY EVENTSBEER TASTING

January 27th - Equine EventGuest Speaker: Connie G,

Equine Sports Massage Therapist,Ongoing beer tastings – stop by or call for details

WORTH THE TRIPFROM ANYWHERE…

WE LOOK FORWARD TO YOUR VISIT!

ROUTE 67 COUNTRY STORE & CAFÉ 518-882-7347

1958 Amsterdam Rd. (Rt. 67) Charltonwww.rt67cafe.com

4 miles west of Ballston Spa


7 News and Views

8 The Wellness Doc

9 Money Matters

10 Ask the Energy Expert

13 The GREEN Designer

34 EcoLocal People

14 The Roosevelt Baths

18 Legacy Timber Frames

22 What’s for Lunch?

24 James Howard Kunstler

30 Thermal Biomass

Annmarie Mitchell is the co-owner and driving force behind Legay Timberframes in Stillwater.She was fortunate to grow up in the early '70's when the opportunities for girls really openedup. Her early forays in shop class gave her inspiration to make things and build stuff. Fastforward thirty years, and Annmarie is making some of the most desirable homes in themarketplace today. Her company, Legacy Timberframes builds beautiful post and beamstructures that combine classic wood joinery with modern design and style. Aptly named, Legacyhomes are just that, a legacy for the owner and for the land that they sit on. Annmarie is alsocreating her own legacy as well, as a driving force in the Capital Region Builders and RemodelersAssociation and founding member of the Professional Women in Building Council. Passionateabout local, Annmarie procures her lumber from Adirondack woods, and supports a local teamof architechts, contractors and suppliers. She is the embodiment of eco-local living, and we areproud to present her as our first cover for 2011!

On the Cover

DEPARTMENTS

FEATURES


Letter from the PublisherHappy New Year 2011! It is becoming more obvious that we are

entering into a time of transition - a shift from one era to the

next.We read in the history books about past epochs and shifts

in societal structure and human understanding. They were

times of great tumult, and I've often wondered how it affected

the daily experience the average person al;alive at the time.

Well, the wondering is over,as we all get to experience this latest

epochal change and paradigm shift. The very systems that have

allowed our nation to achieve great wealth and prominence are

faltering and failing. The great fiat money experiment is

completely unsustainable, and its collapse will change

everything as we know it. The cheap stuff we take for granted

will suddenly become a budget buster. And the expensive

stuff? Fugetaboudit! Some say peak oil has arrived, and we

cannot expect to afford the ability to operate cars and trucks as

we have come accustomed to in the near future. What happens when the just-in-time trucking

and inventory system is running late? Are we ready to deal with the passivity that driving will be

too damn expensive (along with the rent!)? These are hard questions, and the answers are not

easy, nor comfortable. But like it or not, the transition is here, and those who are prepared will

weather the storm the best.

Beginning to live an eco-local lifestyle is one way to prepare for the coming turbulence. Planting

a garden, learning how to preserve it's produce, connecting with local commerce, building your

personal network, helping others do the same...these are the steps of empowerment, and

sustainability. We've been on this rant for awhile now, and it seems to be getting some attention.

That's because living a more localized, connected lifestyle is not only a way to survive the

transition, but even thrive! That is why we've been introducing you to some wonderful people

in the pages of this magazine over the past couple of years. These are the people who can help

you through the transition, because they are already doing the things that will be valuable in the

new paradigm. People like Annemarie Mitchell,who graces the cover of this Winter edition. She's

not just a home builder, but an amazing team builder and networker. From Beijing to Lake

George, she's working it every day. And everyday, someone can smile because they are on

Annemarie's team.

We've also been introducing you to new ideas in future energy. The transition will mean that we

will need to find fuel sources closer to home. In this issue, Robert Millis takes a closer look at an

often overlooked local fuel, that of thermal biomass. The first energy source of our region could

also be our next energy source. It;s another way of keeping it local!

And if all this talk of a transitional time is a little too much to handle, then we've got the answer for

you... a trip to the Roosevelt Baths at the Saratoga Spa State Park. Chances are, few of you reading

this have experienced the euphoria and vigor of a hot mineral water bath at the Roosevelt Baths

and Spa. We are fortunate to have such a treasure in our midst, so consider this your personal

invitation to go and check it out. The Saratoga Spa State Park is also an outdoor adventure park

this time of year, and winter fun of all kinds is right here in the Capital Region's backyard. Get out

and enjoy it today!

One transition that is already taking place is in the school lunchroom. Two school districts are

experimenting with a novel idea - serving locally-sourced ingredients in the cafeteria. The

chicken nuggets and french fries are out; the kale and the broccoli are in! And the kids like it!

Tracy Frisch shares with us her experience at the two local schools that are reinventing the lunch

menu and loving it.

Dealing with the transition will not be easy, but the more of us that are engaging in finding

pathways to the new sustainable paradigm, the easier the journey will be. We here at eco-local

living are about to embark into our own transition to embrace the new year. Our branding will

change to include a more diverse message and audience, taking on the whole of the local living

economy. We will be offering a new website and social media engagements, and an exciting 'buy

local' promotion that will be introduced shortly. The purpose is to create an integrated network

of locally made, locally grown and local independent businesses that you can plug into anywhere

in the Upper Hudson Valley (aka Capital Region) and be recognized as part of the IN crowd (hint,

hint). It's all about the LOCAL living! Are you IN? - David DeLozier, Publisher

Every effort has been made to avoid errors andmisspellings; however, if you see an error, pleaseaccept our apologies. We welcome your ideas,articles, and feedback so that we can give you thebest service possible. Eco-LOCAL Living does notguarantee nor warrantee any products, services ofany advertisers, nor will we be party to any legal orcivil claims or promises. We expect advertisers tohonor any claims or promises. We reserve the right torevise, edit and/or reject any and all advertising withor without cause. Liability is limited to the cost of thead space in which it first appeared for printing errorsof the publisher's responsibility or if the publisherfails to print an ad or article for any reason. Wereserve the right to edit articles if needed for content,clarity and relevance. Unless otherwise noted, we usethe Creative Commons License (in place of standardcopyright), which allows anyone to freely copy,distribute, and transmit all content, although it mustbe attributed in the manner specified by the author orlicensor, and no one may use it for commercialpurposes, or alter, transform, or build upon it.

PUBLISHER / EDITOR / SALESDavid Delozier 518-858-6866

ecolocalliving.com

DESIGN / PRODUCTIONCenterline Design 518-883-3872

PHOTOGRAPHYTom Stock of

StockStudiosPhotography.com,Johanna Sophia and Tracy Frisch

CONTRIBUTORSAmy Stock,Tracy Frisch, Johanna Sophia,

Robert Millis, Harry Moran, Michael Cellini,Karen Totino, Sophie Castro

and Mary Beth McCue

SUBSCRIBEEco-LOCAL Living is the free bi-monthly magazine for people choosing to lead

sustainable, intentional lifestyles in New York's Upper Hudson Valley.

It can be found throughout the region at independent retailers, shops, restaurants

and other high traffic locales Visit www.ecolocalliving.com to find alocation near you. If you would like to

receive a subscription, send $24 along withyour name and address to:

Eco-LOCAL Media 38 Tamarack TrailSaratoga Springs, NY 12866.

If you would like updates and information by email, please sign up at our website.

SUPPORTWe seek to transform this special region

of upstate New York into a local livingeconomy of vibrant towns, productive

farmlands and healthy open space.By reading eco-LOCAL, you become part

of our cause. But more is needed - we need you to take an active role, by

engaging in the commerce that will create the living economy of our future.

This magazine is brought to you solely bythe advertisers found within. Please tell

them you appreciate their support of eco-LOCAL Living. We are all in this

together, and we must support each other.Thank you!

ecoeco LOCALLOCAL

News and Views

With each New Year, we take a look back onwhat we achieved and we look forward to newbeginnings. As I reminisce about the past, Irealize I have come a long way. Not only in myhealth or my speech, but I have come a longway in my thinking. When I look back, I didrealize I'd been holding my breath all my life.Sometimes circumstance is thrust upon us andfrom that we change either by necessity or bychoice. There were many times my body toldme I could not do it, and yet a little voice insideme always said I could! I am glad I did notlisten to that other voice. It did however makeme notice that if my circumstance weredifferent...would I have been here, doing whatI do now and doing what I love??? People saythat we are put here on God's green earth fora purpose, a dream, a hope or an aspiration. Ido believe that as well. I will say that, I alsobelieve that we have to help it along somehowor someway. Ultimately, it is up to us to runwith it and make it so. And that is what I did!I sat down one day, knowing I didn't need areason. I didn't need a new year to come to aresolve. I just needed to make a list, a "bucketlist" as it were...AND to start breathing in life!

As I took the yellow lined paper and sat andstared at it for some time, I thought about whatI wanted to do. I thought about what I wantedto see and mostly who I wanted to be. As Iadded to the list line by line...visit Greece,speak German fluently and, of course on thelist was to write. As the list grew and the blanklines disappeared, the more I felt I was able toaccomplish each of them. Maybe it was themere fact that I had acknowledged them andthat I had wrote them down. I of course wroteit all in pencil because; well to be honest, I canchange my mind on a whim. It did not matter ifthe list changed ten times, I knew I would work

my way through it enjoying each moment asthey came and to relish the feeling of shearelation as I marked each one off my list.

I will ask you....have you been holding yourbreath your whole life? Take this opportunityby necessity or by choice to allow this to beyour resolution to make your own "bucketlist". Think about where you want to go, whatyou want to see and who you want to be. Ourpurpose here is to live the best life we can andby doing just that we inspire others to do thesame. So what are you waiting for? Don't holdyour breath! Get that paper and pencil outand start writing!

As always, I wish you peace, joy and a veryblessed New Year, and don't forget to breathe!

Pattie Rakvica is a freelance writer in SaratogaCounty. After a life changing automobile accidentover a year ago she suffered a Traumatic BrainInjury. Pattie has turned to writing where shereflects on life's path and the challenges that faceher everyday helps her serve as an inspiration toothers. Despite significant health issues includingone that affect her speech, Pattie doesn't look backand now works as a Personal Trainer, MotivationalSpeaker, and role model for all to be better and dobetter so that we may all live life to its fullest.

That is a line spoken by Qui-Gon Jinn inEpisode I (4th released) of the Star Wars films.When I heard that response to a seemingly nowin situation, I was fascinated...

Fascinated by how surprised I was with hisanswer, and then again, how good it made mefeel. Door closes, smile, turn and look foranother one! No pounding or yelling, not anounce of frustration! And not just anotherdoor, but a better one, a righter one, a moreperfectly timed one! That seemed, oh, I don'tknow, bizarrely confident, as if he alreadyknew everything would be fine. He trusted inthe timing of the universe? Huh. Trusting, thatour lives are in perfect order, and everything isfine. Is that possible? Because here is thealternative - NO!! IT'S GONE! Everything'sruined! I'm too late! I almost had it! If I hadonly known! He said no! She won't do it. Ishould have left earlier. I can't believe they'reall gone. So close. If only… Lamenting what

we thought to be the one thing, THE answer.What should have been - the only chance!

This perceived solution - GONE FOREVER.

Why oh why do we have the idea that whensomething doesn't work out it is a bad thing?Imagine, if instead of feeling miserable,disappointed, sad, angry, resentful, orregretful, we just felt relief? Or evenhopefulness, or god forbid excitement!

Why wouldn't we think, “Phew, that was aclose call!”

When the best thing does come along, will wesee it, or will we be too busy being upsetabout what we think we missed or lost outon? In a relaxed state of anticipation, withthe confidence of knowing everything is righton tract, our eyes are open, our minds areclear... our options are endless. Yeah. Thatfeels better.

Kathleen is the Owner of Virgil’s House, 86 HenryStreet in Saratoga Springs.

Another solution will present itself...

A New Year’s Resolution… breathe!

By Kathleen Quartararo

By Pattie Rakvica


Your options are endless, & there are hundreds of them!

Come in to Virgil’s anytime.Order any 1 item!

Hand over this little piece of paper...

Get a 40% or 50% discount. You pick.

Then give the other one

to your friend. ;>


Like many, I am amazed at the speed each newyear arrives. I was just 'settling into' 2010 and- blink -it's gone. Now, I look forward to thenew things 2011 will bring.Whichgot me to thinking about ourpursuit of 'new' things.

As a culture we have anobsession with 'new'. Think aboutour pension for new clothes, newcars, new phones, new TV's, newcomputers and the list goes onand on. The accepted logic here isthat new is better. But is italways?

I remember a time when I got up off the couchto change the TV channel. Now we sitcomfortably 'channel surfing”. A couple ofmonths ago I was house sitting for a friendwho had three different remotes by the TV. Ifigured out that the one marked “Bose”controlled the speakers, a second allowed meto flip through the channels (and probablymuch more, if I knew how to use it) and I stilldon't know what the third one was for.

The point: in our pursuit of 'new' we often putour comfort first. In fact, most of our newtechnology allows us to do less… and less.That can have a hidden cost.

The laptop I am writing this article on hasinternet capability so I can research the stats Ishare later without visiting the library. Themicrowave saves time in food preparation so Ican put more activity into my day. My next carwill have equipment installed in it's computersystem so I won't have to ask for directions,brave the cold to warm the car in the winter or

scrape the snow, and I will be able to use anonboard phone that will respond to my voice -so I don't have to dial.

As a child I LOVED playing games. I cherishmemories of playing hide and seek, learning toskate on a frozen pond, spending hour uponhour shooting baskets at a local playgroundand having the opportunity to play baseball,volleyball, horseshoes, hockey, lacrosse, golfand many other games. Some where alongthe line we learned how to put these gamesinto a computer format and a generation isgrowing up playing tennis and baseball in theirliving room - with much less physical outputthan the real thing.

According to the National Center for HealthStatistics childhood obesity has more thantripled in the past 30 years. The prevalence ofobesity among children aged 6 to 11 yearsincreased from 6.5% in 1980 to 19.6% in2008. The prevalence of obesity amongadolescents aged 12 to 19 years increasedfrom 5.0% to 18.1%.These trends concern me.

Not only are advances in technologyparalleling an increase in sedentary lifestyles

they are influencing social development. Thequestions I brought to Mom, Dad, brother,sister, aunt, uncle, or neighbor are often

answered by computers. Moreand more folks prefer texting totalking.

As a child I remember strugglingwith mathematics in school. MyDad, who worked two jobs for aslong as I could remember to giveour family opportunity, would sitdown and explain it to me. Tothis day I find mathematicsfascinating and I attribute that,in part, to the time I spent with

my Dad working on basic math skills. Todaymany - maybe most - kids will learn thosesame lessons through a DVD or online tutorial.In this they will miss spending time, talkingwith and working through a struggle with aloved one. This may be the greatest cost/loss.

In our - Dr. Michael Quartararo, Dr. ToddDefayette, & Dr. Dermot Jinks - work we havefound important principles to restore, buildand maintain health. These principles findvalidation health in aligning with the body'snatural healing properties. As chiropractors wework toward the reduction and correction ofmisalignments in the spine commonly calledsubluxation. Simple and true the body worksbetter when aligned.

The level of health will also correlate to diet &nutrition, appropriate exercise, the quality ofrelationships, and living a full & active life.These are not new ideas - but they have heldup over the test of time and - in our personal& clinical opinions - are 'old' treasures.

By Dr. Dermot Connole Jinks, DC of Adirondack Advanced Chiropractic

The Wellness DocIn with the Old and Out with New


As we head into 2011 on the heels of adizzying and disturbing mid-term electionperiod, I wanted to take a look at a majortrend that has been developing which hassome very positive implications for investors,voters and consumers. In the first electionsince the Supreme Court's campaign financeruling in Citizens United v. FEC, politicalspending has surpassed old records and takennew pathways, many of them hidden. Withthe impact of corporate money on the politicalprocess now impossible to ignore, investorsand tax-payers have a right to expect somedegree of transparency and accountability onthe part of these institutions.

With mutual funds accounting for over $11trillion of shareholder money, they can be animmensely powerful force for persuadingcorporations that full disclosure of theirpolitical spending activities is truly in theirinterest, as well as that of their shareholdersand other stakeholders. As voters andtaxpayers, we deserve to know where ourelected leaders’ campaign funds come from.As consumers, we deserve to know how thepublicly traded companies we do businesseswith spend their money to influence publicpolicy.

The Center for Political Accountability, a non-profit, nonpartisan organization formed in2003 to bring greater transparency and

accountability to corporate political spending,issued a report in December which noted thatfor the first time, a majority of mainstreammutual fund companies voted “For” or“Abstain” on the Center’s model politicaldisclosure resolution. Previously, the majorityof funds opposed this resolution. Since mutualfunds hold approximately 25% of all theshares of publicly traded U.S. companies, theyof course have tremendous influence oncorporate policies.

Last year, the Supreme Court ruled in theCitizens United vs. Federal ElectionCommission (FEC) case that the governmentcould not ban or limit corporate politicalspending. The position of the narrow 5-4majority was that doing so would constitutelimiting free political speech and violate theFirst Amendment. The dissenting minorityargued that allowing corporate money toflood the political arena would furtherdamage and corrupt the integrity of thepolitical process. Given that this is the politicaland economic landscape we now live in, itbecomes even more critical that we knowhow corporations are using their very deeppockets to influence political decision-making.

While the current system stacks the deck inthe favor of the big money special interestgroups and lobbyists who buy access andinfluence in Washington, the You Street

initiative of the non-profit, nonpartisanAmericans for Campaign Finance Reform, hasbeen fighting for public financing ofcampaigns. Their belief is that no meaningfulprogress will be made on the economy, healthcare, energy, education or the environment aslong as these interests dominate the politicalprocess and that the only way to fix this is tomove to a system of public financing ofcampaigns. They argue that the best way toget big money out of the system is to cutpoliticians’ dependence on thesecontributions.

With politicians no longer needing to devoteso much of their time to securingcontributions and then keeping their largecontributors happy, they would have muchmore time to do the work of the people, nolonger beholden to special interests.

The statistics are staggering. According to theCenter, less than half of one percent ofAmericans were responsible for 80% of allcampaign contributions. The healthcareindustry contributed $825 million tocandidates for federal office from 1990-2008.Since 1990, the energy industry has invested$500 million in Congressional campaigns.Wall St. campaign contributions to candidatesfor federal office increased five fold from $60million in 1990 to $311 million in 2008. The

-continued on Page 29

By Harry Moran, CFP® AIF®

Money MattersMoney in Politics


SRECs, (or Solar RECs), are certificates that represent clean energygenerated from a solar electric system. For every 1000 kWh or 1megawatt-hour of electricity produced froma solar system an SREC is earned. TheseSRECs are then sold to companies likeNational Grid, earning the solar systemowner an income. The sale of SRECs isintended to promote the growth ofdistributed solar by shortening the time ittakes to earn a return on the investment.

New York's Renewable Portfolio Standard(RPS) is a regulation that requires the State toincrease production of energy from renewableenergy sources. The RPS requires electricity supplierslike National Grid to secure a portion of theirelectricity from solar generators. The SRECs represent thisportion of renewable energy under the RPS.

New York is on the verge of initiating an SREC market underGovernor Cuomo. Currently states like New Jersey andMassachusetts offer a very lucrative SREC market. Each state offersa different value for each SREC.

In New Jersey, the current value of an SREC is worth $640 per MW ofsolar energy produced. If the average residential solar systemproduces 8,000 kWh/yr or 8 megawatts of solar energy, then thesystem owner would earn $5,120 in year one.After 15 years, the solarsystem owner would earn a combined $59,577. For a $14,000* initialsolar system installation investment, the solar system owner willmake $45,577 ($59,577 - $14,000) in profit and save $55,000** inenergy costs. The combined Net Value of the solar system is over$100,000 after 25 years.

There is no set assigned value to an SREC. Prices are influenced bysupply and demand. The supply is determined by the number of solarinstallations producing SRECs and trading them. The demand isdetermined by individual state RPS solar requirements and the SolarAlternative Compliance Penalty (SACP) set by the state. The RPS solarrequirement represents the number of SRECs that the electricsuppliers are required to collect each year. The SACP represents atheoretical maximum value of an SREC, since it is the amount paidper SREC by the electric suppliers if they do not collect enough SRECs.

By implementing SRECs in NY, the owners of solar systems will gainsignificant returns on their investments but additionally, everyone willbenefit. In 2001, New Jersey had 6 certified solar systems installed in

the state. As of 2010, New Jersey has well over 4,000 installed solarsystems. In just 9 years, New Jersey has become the number 2 statein the country for solar, trailing behind California. With all of these

installs came local job growth and an increase in tax revenue forthe state. The additional increase of locally produced

electricity saves utility companies from risingenergy production costs andallows for better planning.Once solar is installed thecosts become fixed.Managing energy in thefuture will become a bigconcern for energy producers

because of increasedconsumption and rising costs of

fuels like oil, coal and naturalgas.

Although solar cannot offer all ourcommercial energy needs (at least the

current solar technology), it cansignificantly reduce our addiction to foreign

fossil fuels and help curb our carbon footprint. Solar can supply allour residential needs. And just like National Grid being better able tomanage their costs, so to can a homeowner reap the benefits of afixed cost through solar and ultimately make significant earnings.

Michael Cellini is Co-founder and Director of Marketing for AdirondackSolar. He can be reached at [email protected].

By Michael Cellini, Co-founder and Director of Marketing for Adirondack Solar

Ask the Energy Expert

The Future of Solar in New York - Solar Renewable Energy Certificates (SRECs)


The kitchen is for most of us such a centralplace, the heart of the home, theheadquarters, the work center – where wegather on a daily basis, where favorite familyrecipes are shared with the people closest tous, from the little ones running around ourfeet to our oldest and dearest family andfriends. Modern kitchens are much more thana place where we prepare and eat food, theyare a symbol of who we are and how we liveour lives. And so they need to be functionaland uplifting – two words that will meandifferent things for different people,according to our individual needs.

While renovating a kitchen is considered tobe one of the most rewarding makeovers inyour home, it can be both an exciting projectas well as daunting. There are many things toconsider: will you be changing its size, its layout, the appliances, the lighting, the wallcovering, the flooring? Will you be refinishingor refacing the cabinets, or will you bereplacing them?

Whether your aesthetic is modern ortraditional, there are many eco-friendlymaterials readily available and designstrategies to match your needs. Why chooseearth-friendly finishes? In the kitchen,consider the daily interaction betweenbuilding materials and food preparation, andthe amount of time you and family membersspend in that one space. The indoor airquality is very important and according to theEnvironmental Protection Agency, canbecome two to five time more polluted thanoutdoor air. Standard new cabinetry, countertops and paints release toxic volatilecompounds for months - and sometimesyears, it can be simple to see how this toxicitybuilds up in our very homes. Most cabinetboxes are made with plywood andparticleboard, an inexpensive material madewith recycled wood chunks and sawdust. Inboth however, the resin glue that binds thewood fibers and provides structural strengthcontains urea-formaldehyde. You can actuallysmell it every time you open your newcabinet doors or drawers.

Formaldehyde is known to be a carcinogenand to leak out into the very air we breathand live in day after day, causing eye, noseand respiratory irritation. Some people arehighly allergic and can get sick to the pointwhere they won’t be able to live in a roomthat contains plywood or particle-board-made furniture.

There is only a few companies committed tofabricating their cabinet boxes with a non-toxic soy-based adhesive (a formula called

PureBond). In addition, some will also giveyou the option to select plywood panels thathave been certified by the Forest StewardshipCouncil (FSC). Considering it safety, PureBondpanel’s cost is remarkably competitive withstandard formaldehyde constructionhardwood plywood. They can also add pointsto your LEED green building certification. Andmost importantly, they will not off-gas andmake you sick.

One of these makers is Executive Cabinetry.Located in South Carolina, they have beenusing waterborne, eco-friendly stains andpaints on their cabinets for the last 15 years.They also offer cabinetry using formaldehyde-free adhesives and FSC-certified woods.

They are a member of the US Green BuildingCouncil and have earned the Greenguard’schildren and schools certification for thelowest chemical emissions possible. Theirextensive selection of cabinetry, door styles,stains and finishes will be soon availablelocally at Green Conscience Home & Garden.

Another source of toxic emissions comesfrom most common counter top materials.There is now an exciting variety of materialsmade with recycled paper products, sandquartz, glass, cork, which are greatenvironmental choices for durable, non-toxic,resource efficient counter tops. We willdiscuss these options in the next issue.

The interior design of your kitchen is not onlythe reflection of your family’s personality andtaste, it also must be efficient, inspiring andsafe.

Karen Totino & Sophie Castro own GreenConscience Home & Garden, 33 Church St, inSaratoga Springs (tel: 306--5196). GreenConscience is a retail showroom that offers avariety of nontoxic and eco-friendly homeimprovement products. Sophie Castro is an interiordesigner who specializes in green andenvironmentally friendly solutions. For more info,email: [email protected] [email protected].

By Sophie Castro & Karen Totino

The Green Designer

A ‘Green’ Approach to Renovating a Kitchen

Long before Saratoga Springs was famed forits horse racing; it was known for it's naturalmineral springs, which attracted visitors fromfar and wide. Thousands of people from allover the world continue to visit SaratogaSprings - year round - and take the plungeinto the refreshing effervescent mineralwaters.

The Roosevelt Baths and Spa, in the SaratogaSpa State Park -(the building in back of theHall of Springs Restaurant) - offers everyonethe opportunity to “take the waters” as wellas partake in an array of other services suchas massage, facials, manicures, pedicures,hair styling and the progressive services of anintegrative nutritionist. The eco-friendlyRoosevelt Baths and Spa has a new multi-

million dollar “face-lift” renovation, is a Top10 New York State Green Destination and justcelebrated its 75th anniversary this pastsummer. It has received the designation ofan “Eminence Green Spa” for implementingsustainable practices such as installing highefficiency lighting, recycling awareness andwaste reduction.

If you think that visiting the spas is asummer-only affair, think again. The springsare far enough underground they are notaffected by the ambient temperature andtherefore can be used year-round. The mineralwater is drinkable and maps at the city'sVisitor Center will guide you on a tasting tourof 13 springs, 7 of which are within Spa StatePark. The 2,100-acre state park is open for

snowshoeing, skating, horse-drawn sleighrides, hiking, cross-country skiing and more inthe winter months, and the tasting tour canbe enjoyed while doing most of theseactivities.

The Park recently bought a new trail groomer,which lays down both ski and skating tracks.There are approximately 3 miles of groomedtrails on the golf course. It is best to startskiing on these trails at the warming hut(parking provided) and head south. Maps areat the Administration Building. Spa Park alsooffers two skating rinks. The Victoria Poolrink is used for figure skating. The rink at theWarming Hut is for hockey. Snowshoes canbe rented at the Administration Building for$5 /pair for 1/2 day, or $10 for full day.

Story by David Delozier, photos provided

A Hidden Winter GemThe Roosevelt Baths and the Healing Waters


At the end of your play, stop in the Bath housefor a comforting steam, warming bath & /orrevitalizing message. Warm mineral baths aredrawn in private rooms at the Roosevelt BathHouse ($25-30) and may last forapproximately 40 minutes. Since the springsare naturally cool, the water is heated to bringthe temperature to a warm comfort level,which will keep the carbonation at its peak.Steam rooms are included. Walk-inappointments are available, but it isrecommended to schedule treatments. Relaxin newly renovated relaxation room, read ornap by the fire, or just contemplate whilesipping warm medicinal tea. On your wayhome, pure fresh ground water is available24/7, at the pavilion across from the carmuseum in the park.

The Saratoga County springs are the onlynaturally carbonated mineral springs east ofthe Rocky Mountains. The waters could befrom 50 to a few hundred feet underground ina layer of dolomitic limestone. Cracks in theshale above the limestone is what allows thecreation of the gaseous water and pressure tobe released to form natural springs. The watersare a rich source of calcium carbonate, (alongwith many other minerals), a remnant of theshallow tropical ocean floor that once coveredthe area. Originally the springs effervescednaturally from the ground. Today they arepumped through fountains (for drinking,spraying on ones body) and pipes (for bathing).

The natural springs of Saratoga wereconsidered to be sacred by local NativeAmericans. It was the Iroquois who are saidto have originally used the water's restorativeproperties. British soldier Sir William Johnsonwas the first white man recorded to haveexperienced the springs when he was takento the “great medicine spring,” today knownas High Rock Spring, on High Rock Avenue, totreat a war wound from the French andIndian Wars.

Hydrotherapy, or the use of water to heal, is atreatment that has been utilized throughouttime worldwide. Historical figures of theancient world such as Aesculapius,Hippocrates, Galen and Celsius are said to haveused hydrotherapy as a significant part of theirtherapeutic regimen. Roman literature citesseveral classes of thermal and medicinal water-sulphur, alum, bitumen, alkaline and acidic-which are similar to classifications used today.

Many experts state that Hydrotherapy isbeneficial in reducing many chronic bodilyconditions such as with the pain associated

with inflammatory and non-inflammatoryrheumatic diseases, chronic low back pain,and fibromyalgia. The effects of pressure andtemperature on nerve endings as well as theresulting mental relaxation may play a role inthe pain reduction. There is more evidenceabout the healing qualities we have learnedabout from the many years of researchprovided to us from world hydrotherapyexpert Dr. Les Moore, a naturopathicphysician and acupuncturist who directs TheClifton Springs Hospital Integrative MedicineCenter and Spa, in Clifton Springs, NY. Hiscenter provides “health care that nurtures thebody, mind, and spirit with the goal ofpromoting wellness and health.” The servicesare a combination of alternative andcomplementary therapies, including thehistoric mineral baths, with conventionalWestern medicine.

Dr Moore has lectured with the Roosevelt'sFunctional Medicine and Nutrition Dietitian,and local native, Mary Beth McCue RD, CDN.She sites information from the Roosevelt'swebsite, and that which is in Dr. Moores'research that support the healing propertiesof the mineral waters. In general, mineralwaters support preserving the body by way of“anti-aging effects.” McCue explains thatthe unique natural chemical characteristicssupport metabolism and the detoxificationprocess, which occurs in every cell of thebody. The waters contain a lot of negativeions, which promote feelings of physical andpsychological well-being. More specifically,Saratoga waters have shown to increasehydrostatic pressure and blood circulation inthe body, as well as cell oxygenation. “Thisoxygenation supports energy production, ant-aging and more, and is a large part of



Mary Beth McCue created Saratoga Nutritionseveral years ago to expand Functional Medicine(FM) and Nutrition in the Saratoga andsurrounding areas. Today, there is enhanced localimpact of this discipline, evidenced by “ a localmedical center that recently hired a FM physicianas Chief of Medicine,” she notes. Mary Beth worksin conjunction with her clients' Primary CarePhysicians (PCP), and with experienced FMphysicians so that she can provide the full rangeof care her clients may seek. She chose to work atthe Roosevelt Baths because she was inspired by,and found synergies in, the history and timelesshealing qualities of the waters, and of working inharmony with the biochemistry of the body.

As an overweight teen, she was drawn to learnabout health and nutrition, leading to a 5-yeardegree as a Registered Dietitian (RD). She workedin Health Care for over a decade in all areas ofclinical nutrition, while creating many programs incorporate, community and educational systems.She has excelled in non-conventional programdevelopment, one example of which wasaccepting the appointment under herorganizations' CEO to create an Integrative HealthCare Program, a rare appointment granted todietitians. Today, this program continues itssuccess.

Mid-career, when health challenges led her toseek care within integrative and functionalmedicine, she was initially diagnosed with 17common chronic conditions. This led her not onlyinto a personal health, but a professionaltransformation as well. “Functional medicine isoften sought by individuals that are dissatisfiedwith traditional care providers, looking foranswers and solutions to their health challengeswhich, in some cases, have not been supported inyears”, states McCue. “Many are told theirconditions are in their head. I can honestly say Ihave never seen this to be true.” She alsoexplains that FM is, by no means, new medicine.“The first Functional Physician I saw - fromHarvard - told me that MD's actually learn FM in

medical school in their biochemistry classes - it isjust not referred to as FM”.

Since the mid 90s, Mary Beth has maintained herprofessional credentials by continuing educationand training with Institutes such as HarvardSchool of Complementary Medicine, DukeIntegrative Medicine and The Institute forFunctional Medicine where she acquired clinicalcertification which, at the time, only 70 USdietitians held. Mary Beth has provideddevelopment and counseling for internationallyknown programs at Canyon Ranch and KripaluCenter for Yoga and Health.

She contends there are no financial or educationalboundaries with client demographics: “I seepeople from all walks of life. The commonality isthat they are connected and listening to theirbodies. They persevere in finding someone thathelps resolve, rather than cover up, their healthissues. “ McCue sees her job as helping peopleidentify the unique story of their body, the causeand effect of conditions and then offeringsolutions to resolving them. They learn how totake care of their health, their body and their LIFE.“A clients' goal could be to get off meds, to loseweight, to have more energy, to resolve digestiveproblems or ANY common chronic conditions.“She also helps clients with insurancereimbursement for her services through nutritioncoverage; or by a sliding scale payment if clientsinitiate this with her.

Functional Nutrition supports creating vital healthby working in harmony with the body, mind, andenergy of an individual; simply because nutrientsaffect everything in the body. They rebuild at alllevels. “I see these results all the time with myclients,” which is why I love this work.

Mary Beth is in the process of joining with aFunctional Medicine MD, and formulating anetwork of local FM practitioners.

Submitted by: Mary Ann Goldstock MS, RD,Integrative Nutritionist, Cornell 1985, HunterCollege Graduate School 1989

McCues' work in the practice of FunctionalMedicine and Nutrition. Increased bloodflow helps dissolve and eliminate toxins fromthe body and helps nourish organs and tissues,aiding in “cleansing” - including eliminatingheavy metals from the body. “I had severalcommon chronic conditions diagnosed by anationally known Functional Medicine MD,which included metal toxicity. All conditionshave almost completely resolved. I follow aspecific diet, and nutrient plan, which supportseliminating toxins - including metals. Metalswere measured as very high in my blood, asthey are said to be in many people.”

The Roosevelt Baths is really the perfect placeto defrag from a long work week, or soothethose sore muscles from an afternoon ofoutdoor adventure on the Spa Park's ski andsnowshoe trails. A hot bath or deep tissuemassage in this idyllic setting of legendaryhealing is the perfect remedy for chasing awaythe winter blues.

If you have never visited the Roosevelt Spasand Bath, perhaps now is the perfect time to“test the waters” and enjoy one of the manyservices offered. Not only will you experiencea piece of history, but you may enjoy therelaxation and find the insight into your healththat you have been looking for. Be sure to visitwww.rooseveltbathsandspa.com as well aswww.saratoganutrition.com.

SARATOGA SPA STATE PARK offers a wide varietyof walking and hiking trails. The flat and mostlygentle terrain of the Park offer easy walking.Stream-side trails have much to offer the naturalistor casual hiker. Dogs are allowed on trails on leashonly. For the Winter trail user, Spa Park offers manymiles of groomed and ungroomed trails to cross-country ski or snowshoe. Winter use trail maps areavailable at the Park Office. For additionalinformation visit www.saratogaspstatepark.org.

CANDLELIGHT SKI AND SNOWSHOE: Friday,February 4th 6-8:30pm Families are invited to enjoyan evening at Saratoga Spa State Park’s freecandlelight ski and snowshoe event. In addition toa one-mile candlelit loop, the park will be offeringice skating and hot food and drinks. Snowshoes willbe available to rent. This event will take place atthe Warming Hut. Please call Alli Schweizer at (518)584-2000 Ext. 116 for more information.

SNOWSHOE RENTAL: Get outside and enjoy thewinter at beautiful Saratoga Spa State Park! Thepark has snowshoes available for all ages and sizes.Snowshoe rental is daily and ongoing throughoutthe winter months. Rental is $5.00 per person for ahalf day, $10.00 per person for a full day and$25.00 per full day for a group of up to four.


The term timber frame invokes a variety ofimages: post and beam, timber column homes,Adirondack style, or perhaps an 800 year oldtemple in China or Japan. Timber frame is atraditional form of building constructionutilizing timber posts and beams. According toAnnemarie Mitchell, co-owner of LegacyTimber Frames, the strength and longevity of atimber frame structure is what makes it truly amore environmentally sustainable structureand extremely long lasting (multiplegenerations), thus 'Legacy Timber Frame' is abefitting name for the business.

Co-owners Annemarie Mitchell and DanRoseberger have both been working in thebuilding industry for over 20 years. As theonly girl in her middle school class to take'shop class' instead of home economics,Annemarie has “always been interested inhow things go together”. After high school,

she studied Interior Design in Montreal. Aftercollege, she returned back to the Saratogaarea, where she grew up. Her first job was asan Interior Designer for a timber framecompany. That company, Kaatskill Post andBeam, eventually went out of business. Sheand her business partner, Dan Rosebergerbought the company, which became LegacyTimber Frames. Dan was a subcontractor andknew the field side, and Annemarie knew thejoinery and aesthetic. However, in such a newand small shop like theirs, everybody dideverything. Said Annemarie, “I was in thefield for about ten years; I still run the shop.Dan runs the field.”

A Traditional 'Green' Efficient OptionWhat differentiates timber frame constructionfrom regular construction is the unique andspecialized attention to the frames.Commented Annemarie, “We bring the tool to

the timber. All our tools are hand operated.We do true timber framing, it's a type of postand beam construction, all the connectionsare done with joinery and oak pegs.”

According to Annemarie, the advantage oftimber frame construction is that everythingis point-loaded, this allows you to get a lot ofexpansion - allowing such things as cathedralceilings. The point-loaded timber frame alsomeans there are no load-bearing walls in thecenter of the house. This provides a lot offlexibility with the floor plan.

Post and beam is one of the oldest forms ofbuilding construction. Said Annemarie, “Iwas in China last year in a building built inthe 7th century using post and beam. Thiswas a temple still being used today.” Timberframe buildings are noted for their longevity,like the building Annemarie was in, “they last

Story by Amy L. Stock Photos by ´stockstudiosphotography.com

Legacy Timber FramesStrength and Longevity


significantly longer than ordinaryconstruction; timber frame buildings areengineered to last 100's of years.”

Legacy Timber Frame constructspredominantly residential structures, thoughthey do some commercial work. Theirstructures are both long lasting, and highlyenergy efficient, making them an excellent'green' option.

ResidentialLegacy Timber Frame's residential structuresare custom-designed and built. They use avariety of local woods, primarily white pineand eastern hemlock, which are harvestedand purchased from local saw mills. Theirteam of expert carpenters specifically trainedin timber frame construction, prepare and cutthe timber to size, which are joined using theoak wood joint pegs. These structures areextremely long lasting and durable.

The homes are typically constructed usingSIP's (structurally insulated panels.) The SIP'sform the walls of the home - these 'panels'are made from a rigid foam insulation andprovide extremely high energy efficiency(typically an R37 in the roof and R29 in thewalls). The SIP's also have no studs, so thereis no thermal conduction or heat loss throughthe studs, as is the case in standardresidential construction. “The SIP's are airtight and thermally tight with the only holesbeing the windows.”

Legacy Timber Frames works with a numberof architects who have expertise in timberframe design. Their business currentlyfocuses solely on constructing the frames andpanels. They can provide customers withinformation on local general contractors(electrical, plumbing, flooring, etc). Though,as an Interior Designer by training,Annemarie is well qualified to work withhomeowners to ensure the aesthetic andquality they are seeking in a home is reached.

CommercialLegacy Timber Frame's commercial work isextremely varied, often done in concert withstandard construction. Recently, theircommercial work has included a number ofentryways or other individual spaces which arepart of a larger building. “The aesthetic oftimber frame is becoming very popular,”commented Annemarie. They just finished aproject for Sienna College which includedtimber frame construction in public areas ofnew dorms. They also recently completed theentryway of the Comfort Suites in Lake George.

CostTypical of custom-built homes, cost is variedand completely dependent upon the design,style and materials used. “We can becomparable with conventional built homes,”said Annemarie. She added that most of theircustomers seek timber frame constructionbecause they understand their advantages:longevity, energy efficiency, and of course, theaesthetic. “Our clientele typically are moreconcerned with efficiency and longevity.”

She added that they have built many homeswhere customers put their priority in thetimber frame and panel construction, and ifthey're on a budget, chose to save costs inother areas, such as lower-cost sink, faucetsor other interior elements.

An Active Member in Building Trade Groups

As a woman working in the constructiontrades, Annemarie is very active in a variety ofbuilding trade groups. She is a member andBoard Member of the Capital Region Buildersand Remodelers Association (CRBRA), andco-chair and one of the founders of theProfessional Women in Building Council, anaffiliation of the CRBRA. Encouraging andassisting other women in the building and

remodeling fields is one of her passions. As awoman in the building trades, she feels veryfortunate, “I think being a woman in this fieldis an asset. As one of the few women, I'vegotten a lot more attention, and men in theindustry are extremely helpful. Also, womentend to be the decision makers (when it comesto how they want their homes built.) I tend tolisten to them.” And this makes for satisfiedcustomers.

Started just a year ago and with 33 membersstrong, the Professional Women in BuildingCouncil is focusing their efforts on educatingand empowering women, both in the buildingtrades and the general public. Their first-evershowcase mixer will be held at the Hyatt Hotelin Malta on February 8, 2011 from 5-7pm,with members showcasing their businesses.They will also be sponsoring four separateclasses, all open to the public, designed toteach women basic carpentry skills, includingsuch topics as 'using power tools and safety','sheetrock, taping and painting', and others.They hope these classes will help increase thevolunteer base of several local organizationsthat focus on building homes for those inneed, including Rebuilding Saratoga andHabitat for Humanity.

Through the CRBRA, Annemarie is also an ambassador to the GreenResource Group. The group, consisting of members of the CRBRA,meets once a month to discuss new products and topics related togreen building, providing members an opportunity to exchangeinformation and educate themselves on the latest trends andproducts. Green Resource Group members include builders,suppliers, architects, designers - anyone involved in the constructionindustry and interested in 'green' building. The group also provideseducational information and talks to the public.

Timber Frame, a Specialized TradeTimber frame construction is definitely a specialized niche.According to Annemarie, there are approximately 400 businessesnationwide that build timber frame structures. Through the TimberFrame Guild of North America, individuals working in the industryhave the ability to network and receive training and attendconferences to share knowledge. According to Annemarie, this typeof joinery requires a level of knowledge and engineering ofconstruction most contractors wouldn't have. “There is a learningcurve involved here.”

Given the limited number of timber frame companies nationwide,combined with national advertising, their website, and attendanceat home shows, Legacy Timber Frame has the fortune of a broadcustomer reach. They've built homes throughout the northeast andMidwest including Florida, Michigan, Delaware, Maryland, Illinoisand New Jersey. “Everything we do is pre-made. We cut the frameshere, and bring the cut frames to the site and install them.”

With over 100 homes built in the area, Legacy Timber Frames has theknowledge and expertise to move their business forward. Accordingto Annemarie, she sees 2011 as a “great year”, with several homesalready planned for construction in the Lake George, Sacandaugaand Oswego areas.

Visit www.legacytimberframes.com for more information or call 518-279-9108.

Amy L. Stock is a freelance writer and environmental educator living andworking in Saratoga Springs. Her writing focuses on sustainability andsupporting local products. She can be reached at [email protected] orwww.goinggreensaratoga.blogspot.com.



The youngest generation of Americans is thefirst in modern history whose life expectancyis lower than their parents. Epidemics ofdiabetes, heart disease and other chronicconditions plague more and more of ourpopulation at earlier ages.

With 31 million children participating infederal school meals programs and one infour children living in poverty, schools areincreasingly being called upon to help reversethese devastating trends. (Besides improvingkids' diets, schools are under pressure toincrease kids' physical activity.) I took a lookat some of the steps that two area schooldistricts are taking to improve the nutritionalstatus of their students.

Glens Falls native John Paul Sliva is anidealistic 25-year-old. He has a passion forgardening and real food and a patientdemeanor. While surfing the web for grantopportunities for local projects, he happenedupon the Recipes for Healthy Kids Challenge.

Sponsored by the USDA and First LadyMichelle Obama's Let's Move! Campaignagainst obesity, the contest aims to increasestudents' consumption of nutrient-packedfoods. It hones in on protein-rich legumes(beans and peas), dark green and orangevegetables, and whole grains -- categories

that tend to get short shrift in the standardAmerican diet.

Recalling his own experiences with schoollunches, Sliva jumped at the chance to giveback to his community. "Not only will itimprove the students' health, it will alsomake them happier," he said.

The contest calls for working with a localcommittee made up of at least one schoolfood professional, student, communitymember, and chef. When Sliva approachedAnne Sheehan, who became the Glens FallsSchool District food service director 27 yearsago, he was pleased to find her receptive. Infact, she would have together a team herself,but was at a loss when it came to finding achef.

Sliva introduced her to Kevin London, chef-owner of the Farmhouse Restaurant at theTop of the World resort in Lake George. Slivahas tended the several acres of vegetablegardens that provision the seasonal diningestablishment for the past four years.

The two food establishments couldn't be astarker contrast. Operating on a shoestringunder astounding constraints, the Glens FallsSchool District food service turns out almosttwenty-five hundred meals every day. On theother extreme, the elite FarmhouseRestaurant has the luxury of sourcing the bestlocally and sustainably grown foods withminimal regard to price. It only serves about ahundred lunches and dinners a day during thesix months it's open.

The biggest stress on school food services ismoney. These days school districts typicallyrequire their food service programs to paytheir own way with children's lunch moneyand federal subsidies for low-income studentmeals, but they have very little to work with.Funny thing how little value our societyplaces on the nourishment of its children.

For food and labor, the Glens Falls district'scost cap is $1.74 per lunch. Of that total, thetotal available to purchase the food itself isonly 59 cents, plus 23 cents for a half-pint ofmilk. With this tiny sum, schools also mustmeet federal nutrition guidelines by servingbread or grain, meat or other protein, and aeither two vegetables or fruits or one of each.

The federal subsidy is finally going up, thoughbarely. The historic Healthy, Hunger-Free KidsAct of 2010, signed into law by PresidentObama in December, adds 6 cents per meal. Italso makes far-reaching no-cost reforms.Government reimbursement money will bebarred from subsidizing junk food in thecafeteria and schools will have to raise themeal price for students who can afford it. Thelaw also could get rid of junk food entirely, ifproposed nutritional standards for a la carteand vending machine items are approved.

(Schools don't have to pay cash for all of theiringredients. They get a choice of commodityfoods - about 20 cents worth per meal. Thefederal government purchases these surplusfoods to stabilize prices and then allocatesthem according to a complex formula. Qualityconsiderations are irrelevant.)

Story and Photos by Tracy Frisch

The Challenge of Feeding Kids Better in Two School DistrictsWhat's for Lunch?

The taste-off dishes presented: Cancun Caesar Salad made ofcurly kale, Students Choice; Broccoli with Pasta (and butternutsquash and cannelini beans) and Quinoa Spinach Salad.

Cafeteria staff returning parsley plants to high school's greenhouse on third floor via elevator.


Lack of adequate kitchen facilitiescomplicates the challenge of feeding ourchildren well. Sheehan reported that for theentire district she only has one, greatlyundersized, dishwasher and a single freezer.In some schools the district has requisitionedprecious kitchen space for other school uses.Half of the district's eight schools have tomake do with satellite kitchens with limitedequipment and room for prepping. Manyschool districts though are in worse shape,having years ago converted their schoolkitchens into a place only to heat ready-madefood.

THE BIG DAY WAS A GOOD DAYI visited the Glens Falls high school cafeteriaon December 17, the day of the taste-offwhen students got to vote for their favorite ofchef London's three creations.

The dishes presented by the recipe challengeteam for student approval marry healthygourmet-style cooking with U.S. public schoolcafeteria realities. It's a difficult job at best.While staying within the 50 per serving limitfor ingredients, the recipes must also excitestudents' taste buds and meet the contestspecifications.

To entice students to be adventurous, thecafeteria offered the three special dishes inthe taste-off at no cost. Some of the studenttesters were thrilled with the alternativemenu options, and the others seemedgenerally to be positive. But many otherstudents walked right by without noticing tomake a beeline for the pizza, hands-down themost popular Friday offering in the cafeteria.

When the tally was done, the renamedStudent's Choice Broccoli and Pasta wasvoted the favorite dish by a two to one

margin over the next contender. It becamethe official Glens Falls entry in the nationalcontest.

That the students embraced this variation onmacaroni and cheese -- one of our country'stop comfort foods - is not surprising. Theyalso ranked broccoli high in their preferences.London's version packed in nutrition withroasted butternut squash and cannelinibeans (also known as Great Northern beans),Swiss and Parmesan cheeses, garlic and freshrosemary from the school's greenhouse. Thelight colored beans are well-disguised.

London deliberated incorporated the squashand beans to broaden the students' horizons.Curious about the student perspective onfood, the project team had started its work bydistributing a short survey in the high schoollunchroom. Asked about which vegetables,beans and whole grains they have tried andwhich ones they like, a large majority ofstudents responding admitted to not havingeaten a startling number of foods. Most saidthat they hadn't tried butternut squash, kale,or Swiss chard, barley, quinoa, and varioustypes of beans - especially those not typicallyused in chili or tacos.

Of the two other dishes, I especially savoredthe Cancun Caesar Salad. Freshly chopped,de-stemmed curly kale is mixed with ahomemade dressing flavored with anchovies.So many students liked this dark green saladthat the supply ran out.

The last dish -- a quinoa and baby spinachsalad -- found the least acceptance amongstudents, despite the addition of driedcherries and walnuts - two commodityprogram ingredients that the school foodservice wanted to use up. But few students

were familiar with quinoa, a protein-rich seedfrom South America better known in naturalfoods circles.

London remarked that the quinoa salad"suffered" from the substitution of muchcheaper, blander vegetable oil for olive oil. Healso related something that Sheehan had toldhim. When she commenced her school careerin the Glens Falls district over a quartercentury ago, she couldn't keep up with all thebutter that was coming from the federalcommodity program. Now there's onlymargarine to be had.

-continued on Page 28

Denison Farm, Schaghticoke, N.Y., is welcoming new members for the2011 season. Our Community Supported Agriculture program (CSA)offers a 22-week share of diverse, organically-grown vegetables delivered toAlbany, Clifton Park, Delmar, Guilderland, Niskayuna, Round Lake,Saratoga, Troy, and Schaghticoke. We can also be found at the Troy andSaratoga Farmers' Markets. Take a step towards a more sustainable futureby joining our family farm.

High school senior Jonathan Paradise appreciated havingsomething different for lunch - and he loves broccoli andpasta!

Artist by Name, Prophet by Profession, James Howard Kunstler's nameactually means “artist” in German. It is missing those two dots abovethe “u” - that we like to put into brand names when we want to appearEuropean - to render the German word for artist entirely correct:Künstler. But James does not just carry the name, he is indeed an artistin several fields.

I discovered Kunstler's logical projections of The Long Emergency andother peak oil considerations about 5 years ago. Thoughts concerningour growth-crazy super-capitalism and its eventual implosion - aftereroding its own base and exhausting our resources - had been on mymind ever since I lived in Zimbabwe and saw the exploitation of anentire continent first hand. Kunstler's work, describing the mayhem tobe expected when resources run short, when contamination ofwaterways render entire regions uninhabitable, and when the collapseof our financial systems make organized repair of nature or the returnto civilized living in larger cities impossible, made perfect sense to me.Intrigued by his book, I saw Kunstler in the documentary The End ofSuburbia. His passion and sharp wit made me laugh and cry. Hepresents the irony-of-fate kind of view I wanted for a documentary I wasworking on at the time. I listed him as one of the experts on peak oil Iwanted to interview for that TV documentary titled Window Into TheFuture. We think alike, I thought, except that I always focus more on thesolutions. I wanted to bring to audiences existing models of lifestylesand products already developed to solve the problems he wasdescribing. Unfortunately, Window into the Future did not get fullyfunded and bit the dust in 2006 - and I did not get to meet Kunstler.

In November 2010, I make a last minute decision to attend a TEDconference in Albany and am thrilled to see Kunstler on the program. Iimmediately look for him to tell him that I admire his work. “You are myhero!” I exclaim after his rather alarming speech. “Cool,” he responds- and we hugg! - Ah, like minds! “Can I come to wherever you'restaying and interview you?” pops out of my mouth just like that - Iknow I want to talk more and meet the private person James Kunstler,not just the prophet on his soap box. “I'm still in this time-warp comingback from Australia,” he says, “but next week will be fine.You can cometo my house.”“Great!” and we exchange cards and personal cell phonenumbers.

A few days later, I arrive at his current home - surprise, surprise, he livesin a suburban sprawl development - where the smiling Kunstler greetsme between two regular gasoline guzzling cars in his driveway: a pick-up and a sedan. No, there's no electric car, no Prius, no bicycle. “This isinteresting!” I note, taking in the normed neighborhood. “We don'town this place,” he informs me. “We're just renting.” He's waiting forthe housing market to take another nosedive before he'll get some ofhis own land and property around here, he tells me.

We enter his rented modern contraption of all the fossil fuel derivedamenities one could wish for, vinyl siding, carpets, window frames,appliances, all made just before the imminent depletion of the planet'sdeep dark bodily fluids: crude oil. And he's helping to use it all up.Might as well get that Long Emergency started as fast as we can!

We spend a minute in the fabulously equipped kitchen where he makesme a tension tamer tea and himself a green one. No, no more coffee,no more bacon and eggs for breakfast and no more pork chops. Thereare organic fruits on display and lots of shiny vitamin bottles. °”I hadtoo many health problems, so I changed my diet drastically three yearsago,” says Kunstler. That's so much later than his awakening to the factthat we need to change our behavior to enhance health on the planetand health in ourselves, I think to myself. And he did not do it out ofinsight but out of physical distress. It's a long road from thought toaction - especially in our own life...

Lots of light in the living room and a view of the woods and pastures ofupstate New York greet me as James asks me to make myselfcomfortable on the couch. Holding my hot tension tamer I turn aroundto see that the walls are covered with paintings of nature, bridges, lakesand village settings. “So your partner is the artist?” I presume, ignorantas I am. “No, no, that's me! She's the rare editions librarian at theCollege.” There are landscapes, snowy hills, tree-lined city streets, lonefarmhouses, impressionist style work. James sits down under whatmust be a self-portrait of the painter's back standing at the isle, workingon a painting under a tree. What a romantic setting. None of thepaintings show the despair his lectures and speeches evoke. How dothese two Kunstlers, the artist and the alarmist, go together? My firstquestion, jotted down yesterday, gains a new dimension:

JS: Why this concern for the future? Do you have children?JHK: You know, I kind of slid into this as I was researching my bookGeography of Nowhere. I started seeing the shortcomings and

Story and Photos by J. Sophia

James Howard Kunstler in PrivateThe Artist and the Prophet:


inadequacy of suburbia and the end of theresources it is built on. I realized that thiswhole concept of a living arrangement ofparents raising their kids in total isolation fromany real life is doomed. Living and raising kidsdeprived of seeing and experiencingproduction, farming or manufacturing, forests,rivers, or real neighborhoods, connecting tothe rest of the world only by shopping at themall and by watching television in thecatalogue living room, will fail! -

JS: So you decided not to bring children intothis failing world? JHK: No, I never decided NOT have children.In fact, I was married three times and had a lotof, well, I think a fair amount of sex, but it justnever happened. One of my ex-wives - no twoof them - adopted a child after we divorced.Eventually I said, well, what's the matter hereand I had myself tested. The doctor told me itwould be very unlikely that I would father achild. So that was that. I suppose I'm OK withjust having sex. I came to terms with that. (Heshrugs)

Kunstler is talking with a touch of sadness butmatter-of-factly while I gaze at a particularpainting across from me on the other side ofthe living room: a whole group of folks inbathing suits on rocks under trees at the edgeof a creek - a sensual, summery scene in pastelcolors, the figures in the frame relaxed andenjoying what looks like a family moment. Apainting that captures a sense of well-being -

not at all a sense of deprivation. Kunstlerquite comfortably lives in this richlycontextualized 21st century high-end culturehe deems so short lived in his books andspeeches. I slurp my tension tamer and relaxfurther into the couch.

JHK: Back to Why the mission - it goes furtherback: I was a news reporter for Rolling Stonewhen the Oil Crisis of the 1970's broke. I wasexposed to what was going on and the factthat oil was going to run out some timeprobably in my lifetime and that meant thatthe car-based living arrangements will fail.

JS: Then what drove you to do somethingabout survival?JHK: Don't get me wrong, I do believe thehuman project has value. Civilization is notjust destructive. But the human species is thecurious branch of the primate family that isflirting with god-like powers!

JS: So if we're not god-like, yet responsible forthe destruction and/or the fixing of the planet,then what are we?JHK: Angels and demons! I'm on the side ofthe angels.

JS: And as an angel your philosophy is?JHK: Working small scale - finding happiness.Endamonism.

JS: What's that?JHK: Producing happiness in life. Seeing thehuman race as engaged in its purpose ofproducing happiness. No worshipping of

gods. Celebrating life. Creating beauty inculture. Children are part of that - there is noother reason why I don't have children. AndI'm not gay. I love the act of attemptingprocreation!

JS: Are you, like me, of the 'make love not war'generation?JHK: Totally! War is excessive masculinebehavior. But also survival of the fittest.

JS: Or the act of the male who suffers fromsuch great lack of self-confidence that heneeds to prove his potency to the world bydestroying others? And then becoming


worthy of the trophy: the woman? JHK: (laughs) So yes, we're too macho andneed to bring out more of our feminine side?

JS: Of course. Isn't that same warmonger, thatconquistador also the man who is the wife-batterer? JHK: Well yeah: we've battered our planet, ourmother Earth.

JS: Are men in particular the perpetrators ofthis mis-planned, war-based world?JHK: One could think so. But look at theabundance of right-wing women in politicsnow. I don't know, do they want to be likemen? They promote the same stereotypes andhave the same shared behavior, sometimesworse. The big thing here is habitual actionsand life style. On the other hand, I'm called acommunist by the tea-baggers and on theother hand I've been getting a lot of criticismfrom left-wing women because they don't likethe female characters in my novels. They arenot modern enough, they say, and I'm told it'sa failure of my imagination. I don't showwomen in the corporate world and women arenot acknowledged for their feministrevolution. They're not shown climbing the

ladder. It is totally ironic! However, they stillhave positions of authority in my books. Theremay be more division of sexes; not extremethough. But we don't need cry-babies, weneed action. I'm not one of those who believewe are all the same - we have differentqualities.

JS: My next question was: would women do abetter job?JHK: Not necessarily. Look at our universities.We have lots of women as department chairs.And everything becomes like psychotherapy:it's all about feelings. And this makes it harderto have real conversations about the future.The future needs ACTIONS. Men by virtue oftheir masculinity have the ability to make fastdecisions, to act. Women tend to delay. On theother hand, a lot of care-taking is needed.Women have put aside the care-taking andjoined the rat race. I believe care-taking isdeeply undervalued and discounted.Modernity must allow for care-taking as avalued contribution to society.

JS: Back to the failure of the car-based cultureand suburbia: Does suburban life constitutesome form of imprisonment of the mind?

Could we see suburbia as a prison campbreeding consumers?JHK: Few people are as aware as I am of the“unintended consequences” of such projectsas the suburban sprawl and the car-basedculture as of the 1950's. Take one example: theelimination of housework. Women now haddishwashers, vacuum cleaners, washers,dryers, toasters, drycleaners at the mall, andsupermarkets where you could shop for theweek. Result: women were either boredhousewives watching day-soaps or, in themajority, forced into the work force to pay forall of the consumer stuff, because one incomewas no longer enough. At the same time, withthis increased labor force, wages stagnated.The service sector expanded. And of course,manufacturing decreased in the US and webecame predominantly a service economy. Sowe can ask ourselves how much of thissuburban lifestyle is really wanted by womenand how much is coerced. You also seecultural deprivation and impoverishment ofsocietal interaction. You have this supposedlyadvanced 'casual lifestyle' to the extreme. Youcan wear your pajamas to the mall. At thesame time, you don't have families meeting forgardening, a concert or the theatre, not evenfor bowling. There is only television and thetalk about the next thing to buy. I've neverphrased it that way, but you have a pointcalling it a consumer prison. And it definitelyis an imprisonment of the mind.

JS: What have the 'green' changes in policiesmade in Europe over the last ten yearsachieved or missed?JHK: Well, Europe has lived through the mosthorrifying conditions with the convulsions ofthe industrial revolution, the wars, andfascism. People suffered a great deal duringthe last two centuries. However, Europe didnot give up on its cities and the everydaybeauty of human habitats in general. AndEurope did not give up on mass transit and thequality of urban life and culture. The estheticsof human environments never lost importancein people's perceptions. Capitalism was notable to kill that perception. Therefore, we havecity-life, a city culture, and functioning urbancommunities everywhere in Europe. There'salso much less suburban sprawl.

JS: Did the US ever have concepts of beautyfor human habitats, urban, suburban, rural orotherwise?JHK: Mostly not, except for the attempts ofimporting European concepts in the late 19thcentury and early 20th century. They remainedattempts and the general culture or lackthereof was not able or not willing to live up to



them - because everybody who ownedanything could do what they wanted - andwhen a street, a village, a town is not unifiedon some level, or does not have a commonconcept, it's hard to give a damn about it: it's'everybody for themselves and none for thecommon good.'

Any civilization requires physical dwellingplaces worth caring about. And that's whatwas maintained in Europe. In the US we havethis crassness of our trailer-park and concretejungle non-culture. And the few Beaux Artsbuildings are mostly not where people live orwhere an urban culture can develop.

In Europe, on the other hand, there's theillusion of using Russia for their energy source,on the one hand and on the other hand there'sthis dream of a technical “nirvana” whereeverything is easy! And the outcome is stilldoubtful - well, some of it could actually work- it depends entirely on scale. Small self-sustaining communities using those principlescould be created.

JS: The city of Curritiba in Brazil is often citedas an advanced urban, green living example.JHK: I don't agree that it is one. It's importantto note that people get too infatuated with theCurritiba model and its bus system. The busesare the big deal and they still run on diesel.And they still cater to a commuter society. Weneed walkable city centers in which peopleactually live. Stockholm, Amsterdam,Barcelona are better examples. Livable citycenters that also care about beauty, quality oflife, and culture for the city center dwellers.These cities are offering what I call “rewardingenvironments of beauty.” We have to takethose examples and construct a post petrole-um world without all the pain that comes withcrashes.

JS: A two-fold question: a) How many andwhich of your predictions have come true? b)What did not come true?JHK: a) The housing bubble did blow up, thebanks crashed, and then the economy tanked -a structural catastrophe. That all happenedexactly as described in The Long Emergency.Now some people think we're out of it - butthis is only the beginning. There will be thesecond crash and prolonged downturn of theeconomy. b) I think we're only talking aboutdelays - for example extracting natural gasfrom shale has delayed our gas shortage.We're doing this crazy 'fracking' which hastruly evil consequences - we're fracturing ourunderground rock and ground water systemsto extract deep pockets of gas. We pump

millions of gallons of water and chemicalsunder pressure into a well and totally destroythe integrity of the shale. This is so dangerousthat any benefit is debatable. We alreadydon't have enough drinkable ground water.We polluted or chemicalized, with chlorine andfluoride, the water supplies for humanconsumption and work, and now we're goingto disperse tons of highly carcinogenicchemicals into our ground water resources -the few good water sources we have left inplaces like upstate New York or Pennsylvania.That's why we haven't run out of gas yet. Butit's not going to last long, even if we do all thefracking and polluting we could possibly do.

JS: Haven't there been some reversals ofpolluted rivers and bodies of water, particularlyin Europe?JHK: Of course, as I said about the cities:European countries have not given up oncities, and they have not given up on riverseither.

JS: Some rivers, such as the river Rhine and theriver Ruhr which were extremely polluted just30 years ago have been entirely cleaned upand restored to life, now carrying drinkablewater again. They are full of healthy fish andoffer beaches in the summer for sweet waterswimming…JHK: That shows that it can be done wherethere is the will and funding to do it. We havenot gotten there yet in the US of A. We needto invest into those changes. But when theeconomy is already in the tank nobody wantsto invest in clean-up actions. Things just getworse with the excuse of job-creation orstaying in whatever dirty business.

JS: With your daunting projections for the US -why not emigrate? I have friends who havepurchased land and have moved to Ecuador,Nicaragua, Costa Rica to live on the land - whynot you?JHK: What do you mean, emigrate now? ToSouth America? I wouldn't trust those politicalsystems. The governments are so unstablethey could just take your land away any time,socialize it or declare you ineligible to ownland in their countries. I think it's totally naiveto think we can escape the coming chaos byemigrating to a poorer, less developed and lessstable country, especially in Central America. Icare about my part of the world, right here inupstate New York where we can at least growour own food because we still have water.

Nevertheless, the problem is that we have NOworking models available. And we can't justturn this thing around and make it sustainable.

We have to rethink our entire lifestyle. But canwe adapt?

JS: Do you have any hope for happiness then?JHK: You know, I need to be alarmist or peoplewon't even read me or talk about me. At leastthey are paying attention now. The LongEmergency is taught at quite a fewuniversities. If more people do not becomeaware and start taking decisive action, wereally are doomed! But contrary to my“alarmist” speaker persona, I am actuallyquite a mellow guy actively pursuinghappiness every day - in my relationship, myorganic gardening, cooking, painting, and myconversations with intelligent humans...

JS: Yep, and you've just made my day byrevealing that even the prophet James Howardhimself, the alarmist, the doomsday singer onhis soap box, is just a tad caught up in thecurrent wasteful culture. And by letting meknow that the angel in him foresees newforms of localized community life that he willhelp co-create following male decisiveness ;-) -and, last but certainly not least, by the factthat James Howard, the 'Künstler,' sees andcaptures the natural and localized world andits beauty in awesome paintings. Thanks somuch for sharing some of the Artist and theProphet for this interview.


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These observations cut to the heart of the school meals program - toan issue that few dare to raise. How can school lunches be made trulymade healthy if many of their basic ingredients are not? (For example,typical vegetable oils are manufactured using destructive processes.Oil is extracted from oil seeds like corn and canola with harmfulindustrial solvents under high heat and then further refined and evendeodorized.)

In terms of the taste-off, it was a complete success for the organizersand the students and teachers who enjoyed the new dishes.The projectgenerated "a lot of positive energy," said London.

The experience of working with Sheehan and prepping enormousquantities of food with her hard-working employees left himmarveling. "What a massive production it is preparing lunch for sucha large number of impressionable minds every day!" he said.

Sheehan, too, was pleased to be a part of the collaboration. "This wasa wonderful committee. They did the work and followed through."

No one seems to have any illusions about the rate of change in theschool lunch program though. "We are taking baby steps," Sheehanacknowledges.

SARATOGA SCHOOLS BUY FROM LOCAL FARMERSIn the Saratoga Springs school district, the latest advance involvessourcing food directly from local farms. Some 6,800 students eatdistrict meals. Margaret Sullivan, the district food service director ofthirteen years, had been trying to form a farm-to-school partnershipwithout much traction since around 2006. "We found a few localfarms, but we didn't have the results we were looking for."

In 2009, having outgrown its previous site, the Saratoga SpringsFarmers Market chose the Division Street School as the new locationfor its Saturday indoor winter market. An innovative rental contractallows the market association to deliver up to $9,700 worth of produceto the school district, with equivalent savings from its rent.

"Everyone felt comfortable" with the barter deal, Sullivan said. "Wenegotiated with the farmers for an agreeable price."

At the close of the market, cases of vegetables are left for the lunchprogram. Often the school food service staff doesn't find out what theyhave to work with until Monday morning.

"We turn around and drive it to our schools," Sullivan explained."Sometimes the farmers actually grew and harvested for us."

RESTAURANT QUALITY SOUP AND AN EXPANDED ROLE FOR FOOD SERVICE EMPLOYEES

In early December, the school received butternut squash seconds andmade butternut squash soup - "easily restaurant quality," according toSullivan.

The district continues to get produce from the farmers into early Juneand deliveries resume at the start of the school year, even though themarket is held at High Rock Park in the warmer months.

While it takes more labor to clean and prepare produce "right from theground," the experiment has worked quite well, enabling the schooldistrict to serve a larger quantity of vegetables as well as lesscommonplace ones, like bok choy and beets.

"The staff is taking more pride in the food that they are producing. It'schanged from being a mechanical job where they're just heating andserving. When this new produce comes in, they're challenged to comeup with something ingenious," said Sullivan.

Flexibility is key. Salad greens get tucked into the salad bar or day'ssalad. Other vegetables become part of an entrée, or one of the twovegetables of the day.

To highlight the use of local farm fresh foods, the district puts out aplaque announcing the farmer and the type of produce being served.

Like Glens Falls, the Saratoga Springs district took French fries off thecafeteria menu some time ago. But in Saratoga, the district alsosimultaneously forged its first relationship with a farm. Sheldon Farmsin Salem was sold the district potatoes, which the food service roasted."We were stunned how popular they were," recalled Sullivan.

Sullivan has tried to keep the press - and thus the parents -- informedof the farm-to-school and other initiatives. When she requestedsupplementary funding from the school board, the board memberscouldn't be more supportive. "They loved the local food," Sullivan said."They had read about it."

For the previous three years, Sullivan's program got an extra annualschool district allocation ranging from $40,000 to $70,000 for herspecial initiatives. Besides sourcing food from local farms, these fundshelp pay for nutrition education and steps towards eliminatingStyrofoam disposables.The district's overall food service budget is $2.6million.

For nutrition education, the Saratoga Springs district works withRussell Sage College interns and Cornell Cooperative Extension andeven has a high school club. Sullivan has also partnered with executivechefs like Brian Sterner from the Gideon Putnam and Noah Sheetz fromthe Governor's Mansion. They developed appropriate recipes, trainedfood service staff, and judged recipe contests among the differentschools. A current project entices kids to eat more beans.

The motivation to improve school lunches runs deep. Sullivan said,"We feel like it's the right thing to do. It's how I live my life. I believeit's our responsibility to do the best for the children."Resources: For a more comprehensive look at the issue of school lunches, seeFree for All: Fixing School Food in America, a book by Janet Poppendiek. TheNew York Coalition for Healthy School Food advocates for improving children'swell-being with healthy plant-based foods, including local and organic, schoolgardens, education for food- and health-literacy, and more. Check outwww.healthyschoolfood.org.


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estimated cost of public financing of all Congressional elections is $1billion; about $7 annually per taxpayer. The Cato Institute, a non-profit think tank, estimates that $87 billion each year is given ascorporate welfare subsidies to major campaign contributors. If thesenumbers are on target, public campaign financing starts to look likea very compelling investment!

Legislation with strong bipartisan support, combining the benefits ofsmall citizen donations with matching public funds, is currentlyworking its way through the Senate and Congress but needsadditional grassroots support to push it over the top. Publiccampaign financing laws have already been proving themselves inseveral states and cities, and in virtually every democratic nationaround the globe. As hope springs eternal in the beginning of theNew Year, I hope this is a cause that concerned citizens of all politicalstripes will be able to rally around and support since it truly is themother all issues. The cornerstones of the sustainable andresponsible investing movement are transparency and accountabilityand I believe that full disclosure of corporate political spending andadopting public campaign financing are the keys to a moresustainable, just and prosperous future.

Harry Moran helps socially conscious investors define and achieve their highest goals byaligning their money with their values. A 25-year veteran of the financial servicesprofession, Mr. Moran has held the Certified Financial Planner® designation since 1991.He is a member of First Affirmative Financial Network, a national professionalorganization dedicated to meeting the needs of the socially conscious investingcommunity. Mr. Moran can be reached directly at Cornerstone Financial Advisors [email protected] or 518-877-8800. Mention of specific securities,funds, or companies should not be considered an offer or a recommendation to buy orsell the security, fund, or company. To determine the suitability of any particularinvestment, please consult with your investment adviser. Remember, past performance isno guarantee of future results and no investment strategycan assure success. Theopinions expressed are those of the author and may change without notice. Harry Moranis a registered representative offering securities through Cadaret, Grant & Co., Inc.,member FINRA SIPC. Cadaret, Grant is not affiliated with Cornerstone or First Affirmative.

Can the simple act of burning wood as a meansof keeping warm play a significant role in ournation's next-gen sustainable energy future?An emerging coalition of academics,economists, policymakers and businessleaders say “Yes,”and have joined forces tomake that very case to both a curious publicand a wary green / environmental community.The discussion is underway, and theconversation is both productive and lively.

Furthermore, with a stars are aligned just rightargument that should be of special interest toreaders of this very publication, the suggestionis made that the Northeast US is in a uniqueposition to reap tremendous benefits;economic, environmental and social. Theproposition: if the region's cold climate energy

demands could be transitioned to one thatutilizes an internal supply source - of which theNE has a deep reservoir if that source isdefined as wood --- combined with thepotential of exporting that supply to externalmarkets, a bright future can be pictured.

But the realization of those aims won't be easy,given a wide variety of hurdles that thecoalition and its supporters need to negotiatein the coming years. Those challenges rangefrom the need to change embeddedperceptions to embarking on a massive publiceducation campaign to winning a seat at theincentives table with other (and morepreferred) alt-energy options.

In other words: it won't be easy.

EVERYTHING OLD IS NEW AGAINFrom the early beginnings of mankind, thenotion of setting fire to wood has helped solvethe very basic survival need of keeping warm.For many thousands of years, wood burningwas the primary non-solar means of solving themismatch between our warm-blooded bodymakeup and the not-always-warm aspects ofMother Nature's master plan. Such was theway of life, right up until our prior century,when fossil fuels became the dominantsolution to the “thermal” (aka heat) equation..

Now, as the vision of a worldwide post-fossilenergy future is debated, planned andimplemented, the prospect of once againrelying on wood is being offered up as a keypiece of that puzzle. Can this everything old isnew again solution, now tagged as ThermalBiomass (def: biological material utilized togenerate heat), play such a role?

Leading the charge in the affirmative is acoalition of five environmental and energy-focused nonprofits: the Biomass ThermalEnergy Council, Alliance for Green Heat, NYBiomass Energy Alliance, Maine Pellet FuelsAssociation and the Pellet Fuels Institute. Thegroup is not only beginning the long, hardprocess of herding a diverse (and sometimesconflicting) constituency of stakeholders in aspirit of a common mission, but are also takingthe important step of proposing and publishinga preliminary road map, titled Heating the

Northeast with Renewable Biomass - A Visionfor 2025.

THE PLAYING FIELDAny conversation concerning America's pathtowards cutting its foreign energy reliance isbound to take one of three directions: theconservation & efficiency path; the tit-for-tatroute of seeking domestic replacements forforeign fossil fuels; or the substitution routeusing renewable alternatives. The wild card inthe deck is nuclear, with its own unique health,safety and disposal concerns.

The renewable option is the preferredmechanism, because it adds the clean-greenenvironmental benefit to the mix: climatechange is reduced given that carbon emissionsare minimized, if not outright eliminated. Thesexy twins of solar and wind power lead theway here, with additional support fromgeothermal, tidal, and hydro and othertechnologies.

Within that renewable sector, hanging on thefringes of the public mindset, is a perplexingand misunderstood player that seeks a seat atthe discussion table: biomass.

BIOMASS PRIMERBy its simplest definition, biomass energy is theutilization of organisms, specifically of therecently-living (as opposed to fossilized)variety. Biomass energy is sourced from fiveplaces: trees & plants, garbage, waste streamsubsets, landfill gases, and alcohol basedliquids. Once its energy potential is released --- via chemical reaction or good old fashionedburning --- that source material can thencontribute to one of three major energyclassifications: transportation fuels (biodieseland ethanol); grid electricity (from its burningsteam); or heating. In addition, earth friendlyproducts can be developed as plasticsubstitutes.

In analyzing the heating (thermal) application,history shows a trend of biomass being theprimary thermal source of all societies up untilthe point where they reach an advanceddevelopment level, when fossil and(sometimes) nuclear systems - both micro andgrid-based - kick in as the preferred problem

Story by Robert Millis

The Key to Regional Sustainability?Thermal Biomass:


solvers. Thermal biomass survives in even themost advanced economies, but usually ineither a backup or vanity format (example:fireplaces).

The late 70s oil shock brought about a mini-Renaissance, as a wood stove industry arose,seemingly overnight, to offer cover from thedollar-a-gallon (gasp) oil bills being deliveredby agents of previously ignored and troublingstrangers from the Middle East. Suddenly,every homeowner seemed to be in the marketfor these cast iron monstrosities, whichtypically served the purpose of warming asingle space or room in a building. Manypulled the trigger, plopping one down in theliving room right next to the TV and thefrightened family pet. White collarsuburbanites quickly became versed in thequirky measuring unit called a cord.

The return of relatively cheap oil in theproceeding decades dampened theenthusiasm for thermal wood burning,although a new variety arose in the late 90's:outdoor boilers with vents running into variousentry points in (mostly) rural) homes. Today'sthermal biomass boosters wish that this eranever occurred, given the dirty & smelly aspectof that period's technology, which haunts themodern day perception.

Biomass did make a return to the world stageat the start of the 21st Century, but it wasn't inthe thermal arena. Instead, it detoured intothe transport sector, and biodiesel and ethanolbecame the rage. The concern for how one fillsup her car's fuel tank took precedent over howto heat the home. Many though this was themagic key, and a huge amount of brainpower,funding and political capital was devoted tothe green-motoring prospect. Thermal, once

again, took a back seat not only within thebiomass sector, but also within the widerrenewables class, with the emergence of solar,wind and geothermal as the more popularchoices for heating one's home or business.

Until now, that is. Things change,andbiodiesel is now out of favor for a variety offactors - disrupted food markets, stalledtechnology development, among them. Inaddition, the aforementioned in-fashionrenewables are getting a second look as totheir upside potential as well, and a new andimproved thermal biomass approach - cleaner,bigger and more efficient - is being offered.Thermal Biomass looks like it is back in play.

THERMAL BIOMASSThermal has gained significant traction,especially in the recent two years. 'Thermal' isa quasi scientific term for 'heat', hence thissubject addresses the potential of heatinghomes and businesses with biomass;specifically chuck wood, wood chips as well asclean waste streams. Dead trees, treebranches, yard clippings, left-over crops,sawdust, even livestock manure are all sourcestock potential. Processed wood pellets offera high level of efficiency to the math equation.

As do the new generation of manufacturedunits in which those (typically) woodymaterials are burned. Three importantobservations need to be made here:1) These are BOILERS, not the stoves wecommonly associate with the application2) The focus now includes CENTRAL heating, inaddition to legacy small space scenario3) These boilers are increasingly efficient(energy conversion) and clean (carbon and dirtcapture)

It is obvious that these are not your father'swood stoves. Again, they are not even stoves,but boilers. The typical residential installationis one where a unit in installed in thebasement, in the same footprint as a previousoil burner. The same venting system is utilized.Source material (chips or pellets) are fed intoholding units (picture them being provided bythe legacy oil delivery industry) and a


mechanized auger does the feeding, as instructed by a temperaturecontrol system. Heat is dispersed throughout the home.

THE REGIONAL BIOMASS VISIONThe Northeast USA has a serious problem: it is incredibly dependent onfossil fuels for heating. The numbers are frightening: 86% of thenation's home heating oil consumption is here; and 96% of theregion's total heating needs are from nonrenewable (fossil) sources.$18 billion “leaks” out of the region annually as a result, most of it toforeign interests.

The Heating the Northeast with Renewable Biomass - A Vision for 2025declaration calls for what is calls a new American Revolution, wherebythe northeast states put in motion a roadmap to domestically producea significant portion of its internal thermal needs. Specifically, it calls forwhat is calls a '25 by 25' target:

• 25% of the region's thermal heating need are met with renewablesources by 2025

• 75% of that source will come from sustainably produced and localbiomass

If executed, the predicted numbers are startlingly significant: 1.38million households would be converted; 1.14 billion gallons of heatingoil will be saved annually, $4.5 billion would be retained by the region'seconomy each year; reduced sulfur emissions, reduced greenhousegases; and healthier local economies through improved economics offorest and farm ownership (i.e., retained farm and wood lands). Jobcreation and economic development is an important part of the mix.

LOCAL SIGNIFICANCEThe ecoLocal Living readership area, especially in its northern points,

was based heavily on the forest industry for a good deal of its economicbase in past generations. That industry is in the final stages of decline;in some areas it has already disappeared completely. As a result, manycommunities in the Adirondacks and its foothills are in Depression-likestraits. Many experts think that the themes and suggestions offered bythe 25 by 25 Vision offer a path for the renewal and revival of those verycommunities.

Jerry Jenkins, author of the recently published Climate Change in theAdirondacks - The Path to Sustainability, addresses some of the issuesfrom a local perspective by stating the need for integratedapproaches: “biomass burning is carbon neutral if the forests thebiomass come from are carbon neutral, and is most economicallybeneficial if biomass production is integrated with lumber productionrather than displacing it.”

Using the same thoughtful and math-based logic that permeates hisbook, Jenkins also offers a short analysis of a specific mountain town,using its own unique energy supply and demand coordinates as thebasis for concluding that, in this specific instance, the community wouldbe a candidate for a self-sustaining (and sustainable) thermal heatinginfrastructure build-out ; but not for a large scale biomass electricityplant (the likes of which are drawing ire from many both within andoutside the biomass industry) Note: Mr Jenkins will be appearing andspeaking locally at the February 22 session of Sustainable Saratoga.Details at: www.sustainablesaratoga.com)

In addition, a newly formed local group is busy together acomprehensive plan for what it calls a Biomass Eco Village, which willcreate a cluster of allied manufactures and service providers, creating asupply chain within both the biomass thermal and transport industries.Although it will not show its 'public face' until an upcoming pressannouncement, the group has provided ecoLocal Living with apreliminary footprint / map of what such a project might look like. Itfurther explains that it is “laying low” at the present, pending a searchfor some local economic development partners, both public and private.

THE EARLY PUSHBACKThis emerging and revitalized thermal biomass industry initiativecertainly has early momentum. But, it is also encountering a slew ofpushbacks, objections and obstacles that are slowing down both thebuy-in to the 25 by 25 Vision, and ultimately its execution. Thesestumbling blocks are coming from a number of directions.

First and foremost is the public perception of what thermal biomass isall about. When broken down to its more comprehensible “burningwood to make heat” translation, red flags are raised left and right. Thetypical reaction is to picture the space heating wood stoves or the dirtybackyard boilers of past decades. A major public relations an educationcampaign will be the only way to counter that, and must be an invested.

Second is the resistance from certain segments of the green community.The core concepts of both chopping and burning trees is enviro-heresyto many; who reject the both the carbon-neutral and the low sulfurarguments of the thermal crowd. Such a debate is in full force, and willneed to run its course of continuing and ongoing scientific analysis.

Third; there is an internal dynamic that is (or should be ) cause forconcern in this nascent industry. Certain divides are becoming apparent;even within organizations that would appear to be a single voice.Examples here are thermal's friction with their transport/biodiesel


cousins - which centers (currently) on funding and resourceinvestment allocation, and (eventually) on source crop competition.Similar contentions are arising between those advocating the use ofbiomass for large scale grid/electrification projects, with theirmatching mega-appetite for competing source wood.

Finally, there is the competition with the other, more popularrenewable options. It's one thing to not have a seat at the table withsolar and wind for consumer exposure, but it's a much biggerproblem when you finally get to participate in that setting, but do sowith hand tied. That is the position that thermal biomass finds itselfin, given that is is not working with most of the financial incentives(both R&D and consumer level) that its competitors are enjoying. Itwants equal access, which will be tough politically, for many reasons.

SUMMARYThermal biomass is an industry that feels like its time has come. Outtask, as interested consumers and citizens, is to analyze itsecological, environmental and economic claims for validity andaccuracy. If that test is passed, it makes full sense to proceed withimplementing many (if not all) of the suggestions made in the 25 by25 Vision plan.

Such a process has major future ramifications for ecoLocal Livingreaders and their communities, for the reasons mentioned. Yourparticipation in that evolving process should be seriously considered.

Robert Millis is principal of the Millis Group (Albany & Boston), a strategicadvisory firm specializing in the media, internet, energy and entertainmentfields. For a copy of Heating the Northeast with Renewable Biomass - AVision for 2025, email him at [email protected]


Eco-LOCAL Living: How long have you been inbusiness and what inspired you to get started?Scott and Susan: Last May, we started doingweekend dinners with the previous owners ofthe space, which at the time was more of acoffee shop than a restaurant. After severalweeks, the opportunity arose for us take over thewhole operation, so we polished up our dinnermenu, created breakfast and lunch menus,revamped the space with our own sense of style,and gave it the name DISH. Susan had been aprivate chef for a number of years, and Scott hadexperience in many areas of the food serviceindustry -- so, opening our own health-conscious, high-quality, locally-sustained andsustaining, affordable, and absolutely invitingbistro (one that was also so close to home)seemed to be a dream come true.ELL: What's the best part about your job? Scott and Susan: Do we have to choose justone best thing? Impossible! So, here are a few ofthe best things about our job. Sourcing foodsfrom local producers is very satisfying, cookingup scrumptious dishes is certainly fun, and beingable to work together as a husband and wifeteam every day is priceless. But perhaps thevery best thing is that since we opened the doorsof DISH, we have come to know what awonderful area our little town of Greenwich sits

in the midst of, filled with so many interesting,artistic, well traveled, considerate, andintelligent people. We feel like we could nothave made any better choice in deciding to setup shop here.ELL: Why do you choose to operate yourbusiness in Greenwich as opposed tosomewhere else?Scott and Susan: The main reason is the factthat we live here too, we can actually walk toDISH from our house. The non-commutinglifestyle allows us to spend more time with ourlovely new daughter, as well as to enliven thequaint downtown area of Greenwich with goodeats, local artwork, and great live music.ELL: Why do you think it’s important to keep itlocal? Scott and Susan: Being in the food biz, youcan't get any fresher than locally sourced foods,which is certainly important to us. We also enjoydiscovering great products from this region andsharing them with our community. We recentlysampled a local honey infused with the flavor ofwild marjoram which grows on the hills wherethe bees gather pollen (yes, Susan is alreadycoming up with a menu item featuring thathoney paired with a local goat cheese). Imaginethe delicious flavor of a Pinot Gris wineproduced on the north fork of Long Island,

where you can actually taste the salty oceanminerality in the grapes. These are the nuancesyou can't find in mass produced foods.ELL: What locally owned business (other thanyour own) could you not live without? Scott and Susan: The local food producers,beyond a doubt. Nowhere can we get suchhigh-quality, clean food as what this areaproduces. Staying local supports and maintainsthe high quality of life that local producers andartisans help make possible here.ELL: What are some of the things you do to helpmake the world a little bit better? Scott and Susan: Laugh a lot, recycleeverything we possibly can, and do our best tobe good and reliable neighbors and friends.ELL: What do you like to do in your free time? Scott and Susan: Our favorite thing to do thesedays is dote over our awesome baby daughter.We love doing dinner parties with our closefriends. Scott is diligent about keeping up oncurrent affairs, and is hoping to find time to startreading books again soon. Aside from creatingnew recipes in the kitchen (yes, even in her sparetime it's still fun), Susan is looking forward tohelping kickstart a new Samba music troupewith some good friends in Troy. Being in the thickof winter now, we also try to get out for somecross-country skiing and snow-shoeing, with theoccasional walk about town thrown in.ELL: What's the best advice you've everreceived? Scott and Susan: Do what you love.ELL: Our Facebook fans want to know: What is itthat sets you apart from the national chains andpromotes loyal, repeat customers?Scott and Susan: Personal contact, anddeveloping a rapport with customers thatenhances the course of the day for all of us. Thespirit of the mom-and-pop shop is truly that "weare all in it together, let there be no mistake."This of course is not to mention the great foodwe offer that is as fresh, unique, and vibrant asyou can get.ELL: Our Twitter followers want to know: Whatdrives you to keep doing what you do?Scott and Susan: Creating a place to nourishour community with good foods, as well as aplace to nourish the spirit with goodconversation, artwork and music -- all at anaffordable price. This is our dream-life, and nowwe have the space in which to realize it.

Scott and Susan GarthEco-LOCAL People

An interview with Scott and Susan Garth, owners of DISH Bistro, 93 Main Street, Greenwich


eco-local living winter 2011

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