Eco Local Guide Holiday 08

2

3

4

On the Cover The students at the Adirondack School decorate a spruce tree with flowers, berries and handmade items to create their own Eco-Local Christmas Tree. The Adirondack School is an alternative school for grades 6-12, and is located along the Upper Hudson River near Clarks Mills in the town of Greenwich.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE GREEN TEEN Going Green for the Holidays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 6 Argyle Goes Green . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 8 Dreaming of a Locally-Made Christmas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 12 Gift Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Pages 16, 17, 18, 25 Visit Chatham . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 20 Winds of Change Blow onto West Mountain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 21 Get Real This Christmas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 22 Consignment Craze . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 27 Fast Food for Fickle Foodies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 28 Fair Trade - Connecting People with the Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 29 Ecolocal Guide is published bi-monthly and distributed free of charge to over 300 locations within a 50 mile radius of Saratoga Springs, NY. The Ecolocal Guide does not guarantee nor warranty any products, services, of any advertisers nor will we be party to any legal or civil proceedings to do with any advertisers We expect advertisers to honor any advertised claims or promises. The Ecolocal Guide will not knowingly accept any advertisement that is deemed misleading or fraudulent. We reserve the right to revise, edit and/or reject any and all advertising with or without issuing a reason or cause. We will not publish any article or advertisement that is contrary to the best interest of this publication. We reserve the right to edit articles if needed for content, clarity and relevance.

INTRODUCTION The Holiday Season is upon us, and the close of 2008 is fast approaching. Wow, It’s been a year of change. With record high gas prices, financial market roller coaster rides, and now a new President. We just went threw an amazing election cycle, with a very successful campaign to get out the vote.

The importance of the right to vote was a call to action across the country.

There is another vote we must cast every day, and that is the vote of how our dollars work for us. If we decide to spend money in our communities, with local merchants and by purchasing locally made things, our dollar votes are cast to our neighbors and friends. Dollars spent locally amplify in power, doing the work of creating jobs and local prosperity.

By consciously making a deliberate effort to buy local, we can collectively insulate our local economy from any recession that happens elsewhere.To help in this endeavor, this Holiday issue of Ecolocal presents the Ecolocal Gift Guide – a list of things locally made, eco-friendly or fair trade oriented to consider as gifts for your friends and family… or for yourself.

The purveyors of these goods and services are passionate people – living the dream of doing what they love. This love is manifest in their gifts options presented herein. By purchasing these and other gifts of local intention this season, you are giving that love to others, and like the dollars you spend, it will multiply. And after all, this is the season of love, isn’t it? That love start’s with your choice of Christmas Tree.

Instead of opting for a lifeless thing made of plastic and metal, consider a natural tree from one of our local Christmas Tree farms. Talk about love – these passionate people have nurtured your Christmas tree for the past 7-10 years, so that you can have a natural beauty as the centerpiece for your Holiday gatherings.

You may also want to consider a Consignment Shop to find the unique gift. Consignment Shops are where you can find quality clothing and accessories at a fraction of original retail prices. All the money you spend there stays local, spreading the wealth better than any government program ever will.

And it’s where you can fine vintage and rare items that will help you show your old-school chic!

Speaking of old school, all you winter sports enthusiasts better check out West Mountain this season. One of the last old-school ski areas in the country has got some new digs to show off! Another example of local love.

So get out there, cast your vote for local change, buy local, be local – get eco-local!

- David DeLozier, Publisher

5

OUR MISSION To gather and share reliable resources and information which will assist this and future generations to make conscious choices that will lead to healthful, sustainable lifestyles.

To provide benefit to all those who seek a vibrant, living local economy by promoting our neighborhood businesses that are committed to whole ecology thinking and practices, and the healthy food options available by supporting our local farming community Holiday 2008 • Vol 1 Issue 4 PUBLISHER / SALES / MARKETING David Delozier 518-858-6866 advertise@EcolocalGuide.com DESIGN / PRODUCTION Centerline Design 518-883-3872 CONTRIBUTORS Stacey Morris, Heidi Soos, Samantha McCullough Kathy Stumph and Rhonda Parker ARTICLE / EVENT SUBMISSION submissions@EcolocalGuide.com ADDRESSES 38 Tamarack Trail Saratoga Springs, NY 12286 www.EcolocalGuide.com By reading and supporting Ecolocal you become part of our team - and help the greater community of the Northeastern NY become a healthier place to live, work and play. Please tell our advertisers you saw them here.

We use recycled-content paper and water-based ink.

PLEASE RECYCLE!

6

GREEN TEEN Going Green for the Holidays

BEING GREEN FOR THE HOLIDAYS ISN'T JUST FOR ADULTS; WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE TOO! • Skip the wrapping paper! I've read that Americans throw away about 25% more trash between Thanksgiving and New Year's Eve. That's an additional 5 million tons of garbage! I bet most of it is wrapping paper. Instead of using wrapping paper, get creative. Put the funky necklace for your friend inside a pair of those really soft socks everyone loves. Wrap the c.d. for your brother with the Sunday comics' page.

• Remember the carbon footprint and Buy Local! When buying a gift think about its carbon foot print.How did it get to the shelf in the store? Was it made in a factory someplace like China with parts shipped in from all over the world? Suppose then it went on a plane to Albany and finally on a truck to the store. You may have only paid $10, but the environmental costs were much higher! Try to buy locally made and sold gifts. Jet fuel not included!

• Say no thanks to the plastic bag at the register! Just put the items you have bought in your purse or carry them loose. You can also use a reusable bag; they sell them everywhere!

• Make a wish list that's packaging free! Some of that 25% more trash is packaging from all the gifts that we receive on the holidays.Try not to buy (or ask for!) items that come with a lot of packaging. Think about that Barbie doll you picked out for your cousin. The doll was put inside a cardboard box tied down with twisty-ties, and around the box is a plastic window. That's a lot of trash! Look for items that are sold without a lot of packaging.

And when you make your own wish list, add in a few items that don't have packaging at all, like movie tickets or a day out with your parents.

HAVE A HAPPY HOLIDAY!

About the Author: Vanessa Baird is a local teen living green. She thinks that's just great as long as having a green life doesn't mean giving up 'having a life.' She'd love to hear what other teens are doing to be green.You can email her at greenteen@verizon.net

7

8

ARGYLE Goes Green

By David Delozier

At first glance, Argyle seems like any number of country crossroads towns in our region. Its clapboard and brick homes and tall church steeples define its 19th century heritage. Other than the ubiquitous Stewart's Shop, it seems that nothing much has changed in this hamlet tucked into the rolling hills of Washington County. Don't let the Currier and Ives post card image fool you - this town is the home of some revolutionary movers and shakers.

One such mover was Argyle's favorite son and entrepreneur, David Sheridan. He started a plastics manufacturing business out of the family barn, creating the plastic tubes, called catheters, which have a number of uses in hospitals. As the business grew, Mr. Sheridan hired on the local people to meet the demand. The catheter business that grew out of Argyle became so successful that it was bought out several times, and became the largest employer in Washington County. Sadly, the plant that Sheridan built was shut down in 2003 and moved to Mexico to cut costs.

Today,new band of revolutionaries is starting a green revolution in this sleepy hamlet. Enter Chuck Bates - owner of Bates Industries, a plastics business he started after closure of the Argyle plant. Chuck Bates has been a tinkerer al his life. The Argyle native began working in Dave Sheridan's barn right out of high school. He helped develop some of the innovative tooling and machinery that made Sheridan's business such a success. Always the innovator, Chucks' new passion of gadgetry is green energy, and he is on a mission to capture all that he can.

Dismayed by increasing electric rates, Chuck decided it was time to capture the free energy that is flowing all around him. “The first thing I wanted to create power for was my pool's pump,” said Chuck. “That thing is a major power hog!” He began researching solar power with photovoltaic panels, but at that time found there were no installers nearby. Taking matters into his own hands, Chuck started collecting 80W panels to create an array try to run the pump. He built a system with 18 panels on a trailer, but still could not get enough juice. NYSERDA referred him to Renovus, a solar firm out in Ithaca,which at the time,was the closest in the State. After much time and analysis, they found that there was too much waste in the system. Chuck found that the system would be much more efficient utilizing the DC current produced by the sun. He bought a DC pool pump and a new regulator, and to his surprise, it worked! That's all it took - he was now smitten!

Next step was to solve the water heating issue. Chuck installed an array of evacuated tubes to heat the pool water. It worked so well that that he decided to install a similar system onto the roof

9 of the house to provide for household hot water. Seeing the reduction in his energy costs,Chuck realized he had the potential to go completely green.

To offset his home's electricity needs,Chuck installed another PV system onto the garage and added a small marine wind turbine for additional boost. He even rigged the system to route the sun and wind powered DC current to a battery bank first, then to an inverter for supply to the house A/C current, which is also gridtied. “I can use the battery bank to charge all my motor batteries,” said Chuck, pointing to the cars and lawn mower in the garage. “And the surplus DC capacity goes to the house to supply my LED lighting.” The walkway approach to the house and his kitchen counter lights are all powered by the battery bank in the garage.

Most people would be satisfied with this accomplishment, but not Chuck Bates.“My little wind turbine was working pretty well, but I noticed the wind was a lot stronger above the tree tops,” he said. “I own the field out back, so I though I could put a big wind turbine out there on the hill.” Thought became action, and off in the distance, just above the tree tops, spins Chuck's wind turbine. I look up at the bright blue sky, and feel the nice cool breeze at my face and say to Chuck “I bet you love days like this!”

You betcha!” he said. We used to curse the wind around here, blowing everything around. Now, it's like money in the bank!”

Like a virus, Chuck's pioneering green energy experiments are spreading throughout the town. As member of the Argyle Fire Department, Chuck helped convince the board to invest in PV Solar for the Firehouse. “Our power bill was killing us, “said Chuck.“It'll pay for itself in a few years. We'll save the taxpayers money in the long run.”

Neighbors have caught the green virus, too. Inspired by Chuck's success, Paul Tabor, who lives just a mile away, jumped into game with both feet. With a similar south facing garage, Paul had the folks from Solarwrights in Ballston Spa install a grid-tied PV array. “I love seeing the meter spin backwards,” said Paul. Another tinkerer like Chuck, Paul has rigged up a small wind turbine to supply electricity to his garage. Paul built it out of spare auto parts, hand wound the coil, and even fashioned the blades out of wood he had in his shop. Now he can run most of his power tools off the stored electricity in the battery bank, with the exception of the circular saw. “The batteries can't supply the sudden surge that the saw demands,” he explained.

Scott Rakowski of Solarwrights says that several other folks in Argyle have placed orders with his firm. “It's very exciting to see,”he said. “The residents of Argyle, NY have come together to

improve their community by generating power using renewable energy sources. I'm very proud to say that SolarWrights has seen Argyle and the surrounding communities take advantage of state and federal incentives to help finance the installation of renewable energy on homes and other buildings. These systems produce clean energy through solar photovoltaic, solar thermal, and wind turbine technologies. Argyle, in taking an alternative energy leadership role, is working to control its emissions and save residents money. Photovoltaic (PV) solar systems can meet up to 100% of a home's electrical demand.

For an average house, a 5kW roof mounted PV system, costing $9,000 after state solar energy incentives, will supply almost all the electricity the home needs.”

It's refreshing to see that the folks in Argyle are taking their own initiative to create energy independence. Their ingenenuity and passion is an inspiration to all who wish to re-localize their energy sources. Power to the people!

10

11

12

Dreaming of a Locally With Black Friday only days away,it’s time once again to contemplate the undertaking that is holiday shopping season. And whether you love it or loathe it, there’s something tangible you can do to make the shopping experience a little merrier for the artisans in your community: buy gifts that are made where you live. With an unquantifiable legion of artisans, textile artists, and specialty food purveyors in every county, finding quality and memorable gifts made within your area code is as easy as visiting a neighborhood gallery or arts center.

Bliss McIntosh of Cambridge,N.Y.is one of the founding members of Valley Artisans Market at 27 East Main St. The artist’s cooperative carries everything from fine art to crafts, textiles, and toys and began in 1981 and is partly underwritten by the nearby Hubbard Hall arts center. “They give us a nice, low rent because our work is part of their mission:“Making Art in the Community Happen,’” said McIntosh. Lately she’s been working overtime to churn out more of her signature works of angels created from corn husks which are used in wreaths, mobiles, or as tree ornaments. “Christmas has always been a big time for us at Valley Artisans. A big chunk of my income comes from the sales I get there.”McIntosh said the coop is open to any interested artist in the community willing to work there one day per month.

Donnalynn Mills, owner of Sensibiliteas in Glens Falls, N.Y., says she’s encouraged by the spike she has seen in business during the Christmas shopping season for the past two years she has been open.“There’s always a big surge here,”said Mills, who sells more than 500 varieties of teas.“Tea has become known as the gift of health. Some of the teas I sell are specific to building the immune system and they make great gifts.”

Mills’ shop is located in The Shirt Factory, a mammoth threestory brick building that houses dozens of artists studios and galleries. “It’s a great spot for buying locally made gifts and supporting local artists,” she said. “And there’s an open house here Thanksgiving weekend. The assortment of things in this place is mind-blowing.”

Patrice Jarvis-Weber, shop and program coordinator for LARAC (Lower Adirondack Regional Arts Council) in Glens Falls, says their gift shop plays a vital role for sustaining local artists’ livelihood. “It helps keep our local economy thriving,” she said.

“This year we have upwards of 60 artists represented in the shop. We sell everything from pickles, sauces, nuts, and syrup to scarves, purses, and jewelry. And the fine art we offer is perfect for holiday gifts. It’s one of a kind and you can’t find that at shopping malls.”

Cohoes,N.Y.resident Donna Harris expects to be working overtime this holiday season to accommodate the rush of orders for her gourmet apples, pretzels, Marshmallow Sticks, and Turtles. She and husband John sell their signature caramel, M&M and Snickers covered apples at the Troy Farmers Market on Saturday mornings and at the Schenectady Farmers Market Thursday mornings.

They also do a booming business through their Web site. “We started last June and it’s really taken off,” said Harris.“There isn’t a

13

Made Christmas

By Stacey Morris

state we haven’t shipped to and the best part is, all our inventory is from local sources. Our apples are from Bowman’s Orchard in Rexford. We also buy our chocolate and caramel locally, as well as the ribbons for the apples.“It’s great for the local economy,”said Harris.“People buy from us and that in turn supports our suppliers.

It all fans out back into the community.” For more information, visit www.stickyfingersapples.com .

Serena Kovalosky, an artist based in Washington County has her Organic Gourds and Vessels displayed in galleries from Saratoga Springs to Vermont (www.kovalosky.com ) One of her favorite venues for her work is The Times Emporium in Whitehall, N.Y. because it’s a clearinghouse for area artists to display and sell their work. Owner Marge Mohn sells everything from Mountain Brook Silver Jewelry made in nearby Dresden to Common Sense Lotions and Body Washes made by The Twelve Tribes of Israel based in Cambridge. Kovalosky is optimistic the trend of buying local will extend into the realm of holiday shopping.

“People are starting to look for an artist's signature on gifts they buy,rather than "Made in China,’”she said.“They especially enjoy the shopping experience of visiting an area gallery or local shop and learning about the artists who created each piece. They want a gift with a 'story'.“They may spend more money, but it's a much more thoughtful and unique purchase. And the gift can often be handed down as an heirloom for future generations, rather than ending up in a yard sale."

SHOPPING LOCAL FOR CHRISTMAS LARAC 7 Lapham Place, Glens Falls, N.Y. (518) 798-1144 www.larac.org Shop hours: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday-Saturday. Holiday Open House: Nov. 15 Dec. 24; Thursday Dec. 11: Ladies Night 4 to 8 p.m.; Wednesday Dec. 17: Men’s Night 4 to 8 p.m.

Saratoga Arts Council 320 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, N.Y. 584-4132 www.saratoga-arts.org Open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday; 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday; and 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. every first Saturday of the month. Gift shop features books, note cards, prints, ceramics, textiles, jewelry, and small paintings by area artisans.

The Shirt Factory Lawrence and Cooper Streets, Glens Falls, N.Y. www.theshirtfactorygf.com The Shirt Factory will hold a Holiday Open House for artists and their galleries from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 29 and Sunday, Nov. 30. A preview will be offered from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 28.

The Shop Arts Center of the Capital Region 265 River St., Troy, N.Y. (518) 273-0552 www.artscenteronline.com Open 11:30 am. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and noon to 3 on Saturday. Gift shop has works by more than 50 artisans from Capital region, Massachusetts, and Vermont including jewelry, prints, paintings, collage, pottery, stain glass art, textiles, fiber art, children’s toys and games, books, and journals.

The Times Emporium 6-8 N. William St., Whitehall, N.Y. (518) 499-2436 A collection of gifts and fine art by local artisans from around the region Troy Farmers Market For more information on winter vendors, visit www.troymarket.org Valley Artisans Market 25 East Main St., Cambridge, N.Y. (518) 677-2765 Closed Mondays (except for Dec. 22) www.valleyartisansmarket.com Holiday Open House: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday Nov. 29 from 10 to 5 p.m.

Victorian Stroll 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, downtown Troy, N.Y. With Live music, street vendors, special events with downtown shops.

Visit www.troyvictorianstroll.com for more information.

For information on where to purchase art works and products by Washington County artists, visit: www.washingtoncounty.org/shop.html

14

SCHUYLERVILLE Visit the town where a British surrender became the turning point in the American Revolution. Now the scene of a new turning point, Schuylerville is becoming a vibrant village along the Hudson River, with eclectic shops, restaurants and art galleries to enjoy. Take the short drive and step back in time. Park your car and stroll our sidewalks.

15

bio From Portland, Oregon to cyberspace, to his new home in Northville, N.Y., the lovable canine cartoon character, Stinky, has been in all kinds of situations. Stinky is the headliner for the Stinky Art Company, and is the star of his own line of merchandise.

Stinky is the creation of artist Samantha Horwood McCullough. Samantha has lived a very colorful life, living in over fifty locations and has traveled in many countries around the globe. In 1997, upon returning from India, McCullough found work at a laundromat in downtown Portland, Oregon. With no extra money to buy a birthday gift for her boyfriend (and future husband), she turned a discarded tweed coat (found in the garbage can of the laundromat) into a stuffed

dog for his present. Shortly after, she began doodling a character very similar to the stuffed dog she'd made as a gift. Friends and family loved her quirky drawings and encouraged her to sell them.

With no money and little resources, Sam bought unusual frames at the thrift store, which she refurbished with sandpaper, and paint. With her first collection of ten framed original oil pastel drawings, she headed to the Portland Saturday Market, an outdoor Artist market in downtown Portland. One of her first drawings was entitled “Stinky”. “It sold right away, so I did another called 'Stinky in the Bathtub', it kind of took off from there…people went crazy for Stinky,” McCullough said. Some of her future Stinky drawings included such titles as “Super Stinky”, “Stinky Laundry”, “Stinky Intellectual”, “Stinky on a Motorcycle”, and of course “Stinky in the Bathroom”.

After Sam and her husband, Jason, moved back to his hometown of Northville to raise their family, old customers were still asking for Stinky art. She started selling Stinky prints, originals, and T-shirts on the Internet, but soon the escalating business outgrew their home. She then located to a storefront in downtown Northville, giving Stinky room to grow. While working in the Stinky store, numerous professionals in the children's publishing business encouraged her to create books for Stinky. Last summer, McCullough closed her very successful retail store to pursue writing/illustrating children's. McCullough still maintains the Stinky website.

For more information and to see Stinky 's latest adventures, please visit www.stinkydog.com, or call (518) 863-2132.

16

The Cambridge Village Store and Co-op Cookbook

Havlick's Tracker 30 Snowshoes

Two Spruce Pottery & Glassy Beads

The Cambridge Valley is in the heart of Washington County’s farm belt, and it’s residents know how to put the bounty of their local farms to good use.

The new Cookbook from the Cambridge Village Store and Co-op is chock full of secrets from the locals’ kitchens. It’s real country cooking from real country people.

This cookbook is the perfect holiday gift for anybody who likes food! Only $12.75.

Call 677-5731 to get your copy.

See our ad on page 11

Our snowshoes are made from superior lightweight materials. They are constructed with tempered aluminum frames, aluminum and stainless steel hardware, super tough reinforced decking, and trail tail. All our snowshoes come equipped with aggressive forward and aft crampons for maximum traction in ice conditions. Our four series of snowshoes offer comfort, efficiency, control, and good flotation. Adirondack series-hiking and climbing, Tracker series-recreational walking,Sprinter serieswalking, running, and jogging, Racer series-jogging and competitive racing We’d like to give you a warm welcome from our family to yours! If there’s anything we can do to assist you in your decision for snowshoes, please call us @ 518-661-4644 or toll free @ 1-800-8677463 (TOP-SHOE).

See our ad on page 5

You can watch potter Nancy Niefield and lamp worker Carol Markytan work in their studios located at 175 Jay Street in downtown Schenectady The gallery is open Tues-Sat 11 to 5 and by appointment.

Nancy creates dishes, bowls, mugs, vases, lamps and more. All dinnerware is safe for dishwasher, microwave and oven. She also specializes in raku-fired vessels.

Carol uses a torch to melt glass rods into beautiful beads of myriad shapes, sizes and colors. She combines them into necklaces, bracelets and earrings.

See our ad on page 13

Holiday Hams from Locust Grove Smokehouse

Slyboro Ciderhouse’s Elegant Farm-made Hard Ciders

Real Wood Furniture from Country Made Crafts

Give the perfect "local and seasonal" gift! Elegant Farm-made Hard Ciders from the winery at Hicks Orchard, Slyboro Ciderhouse.Ciders are the ultimate expression of our region's agriculture and history.

Choose from Dry or Semi Dry Sparkling Ciders or our Apple Ice Wine Ciders.

Gift baskets and Corporate Gifts available.

We are now shipping wine, order online now for holiday delivery. ( Within New York State only) Farm Winery Tasting room open through Dec 23!

Slyboro Ciderhouse 18 Hicks Road Granville, NY (518) 642-1788 www.slyboro.com See our ad on page 5

Adirondack chairs, tables, shelves, curios and more. We have the honor of a master wood craftsman, John L. Phillips, since Country Made Crafts shop opened its’ doors in 1999. John uses his knowledge as a machinist to create the tools needed to produce a wide range of unique wood furniture, as well as that one of a kind item. You’ll know you can give a gift that no one will find anywhere else. He puts his love and care into every item he hand makes exclusively for Country Made Crafts. Country Made Crafts is a locally owned and family run business, located on Route 29 just west of the junction with route 147. You can shop our quaint country shop 7 days a week. 1409 Rt. 29, Galway, across from C&R Restaurant. 882-1205 www.countrymadecrafts.com See our ad on page 12

Nothing satisfy’s the Holiday hunger like ham. And when it comes from the Locust Grove Smokehouse in Argyle, you can be assured that your Holiday ham is the best tasting - because it comes from sustainable raised local pork, and is cured and smoked according to our family recipe. Our Holiday hams are available in traditional or spiral sliced. They make great gifts, and we can ship them anywhere. Order now to insure availability. We also stock a large variety of locally made food items so that you can make your own local food gift basket.

Locust Grove Smokehouse is also the leading USDA processor of beef and pork from local farms. 4725 State Route 40, Argyle, NY 12809 Phone: (518) 6388591 See our ad on page 8

17

Gourmet Apple Cider from Saratoga Apple

Mango Tree brings the world into your home through Fair Trade

Complement your Holiday meal with New York’s local juice, apple cider. Why do we call it gourmet? We hand-pick the apples from the tree, not from the ground, and then create a blend of eclectic apple varieties for that perfect blend of tart and sweet. Our cider is fresh-pressed at the farm in small batches, insuring peak flavor at the time of purchase. We do not sell wholesale – all of our cider and apples are only available either at the farm or at the Saratoga and Troy winter farmers markets. We also carry many local-sourced food products – great for making your own local gift basket!

See our ad on page 14

Breaking news: artisans in the Philippines transform yesterday's news into good news for the planet.

Headlines and bylines are included in this unique square hot pad created from 100% recycled newspaper.

Perfect as a gift for all of your green friends, the recycled paper in these mats are wound around an umbrella spoke and then joined with thread and glue into the square pattern. Placemats, bowls, round trivets and coasters are also available in this same style.

Locally owned Mango Tree Imports at 2124A Route 50 in Ballston Spa, allows you to shop globally while shopping locally.

See our ad on page 29

The original is still the best – the Tough Traveler kid carrier makes it easy to bring the baby along with your adventures, whether they be climbing the High Peaks or window shopping on Broadway. Locally made in Schenectady since 1973, Tough Traveler carries a complete line of bags and packs of all shapes and sizes for anything you need to carry.

Come by the store at 1012 State Street, Schenectady or online at www.toughtraveler.com. We ship anywhere!

Your purchase helps us to continue to provide local jobs with fair wages.

See our ad on page 7

Chainsaw Carvings from Earthworks

Sprig Toys at New York Toy and Hobby

Gift Certificates to Electric City Rockgym

Introducing the eco-friendly Sprigtoys – composed of recycled plastics and wood. Sprig makes use of reclaimed products such as polypropylene, saw dust, rice husk and palm fiber. No batteries needed, Sprigtoys are kid powered! When a child moves the car forward, it triggers the generator that fuels the lights and sounds. Find this and other “green” toys at the area’s newest toy store, New York Toy and Hobby, located in the Clifton Park Center.

See or ad on page 13

Forget the candy! Stuff those stockings with a gift certificate from the Electric City Rockgym. The Electric City Rock Gym is a full-service rock indoor rock climbing gym that offers a fun and challenging experience for climbers of all levels. The gym is located in the Center City Sportsplex in downtown Schenectady, NY. The We offer some of the best climbing around. From the main climbing wall, the tallest in the Capital Region, to the top level bouldering area, the Electric City Rock Gym offers something for everyone. We also offers specials for parties, group events, teambuilders, corporate outings, instructional classes, summer fun camps for kids, outdoor guided trips, and top level climbing routes for rock climbing enthusiasts, and "gym rats" all levels.

See or ad on page 12

Joe Rego chainsaw-carves a chair at Earthworks' "ODDFEST" held on Columbus Day weekend. Joe is one of 93 artists & craftsmen represented at Earthworks store at routes 29 & 30 in Vail Mills, N.Y. A store unlike any other, Earthworks features original Local & USA Made artwork, gifts, souveniers, and home furnishings. Your purchase helps our artists continue their craft, and you've got something that was made with passion.

See our ad on page 23

Kid Carriers from Tough Traveler

18

The “Goddess Knits” Jewelry at The Flower Basket

Lending A Hand at the Open Door Bookstore

Local Folk Art at THE BARN in Corinth

Want something unique and original for the woman in your life who already has it all? Head on over to the Flower Basket in Schuylerville to see their exclusive Goddess Knits - a unique collection of hand-knit wire and bead jewelry in a dazzling array of colors to accent any ensemble! Made locally, and only available at The Flower Basket, 161 Broad Street, Schuylerville.

See our ad on page 14

Please join us in helping others in our community during this Holiday Season: The Giving Tree: buy a children’s paperback book (at 20% off) by Dec. 15, and we will deliver it to Northeast Parent and Child Society.

Entertainment Books: Sales of these books will benefit the AIDS Council of NENY. Toys For Tots: Buy and donate toys for this worthwhile project, and you’ll receive a 20% discount on the toys.

Stop by the Open Door on Jay Street, Schenectady to lend a hand!

See our ad on page 29

Clara Mae Towers-Orto, born in 1921, the sixteenth of eighteen children, has lived all her life in the foothills of the Adirondack Mountains. Home, family, the beauty of nature and community involvement, fill her life and feed her art. She has written wonderful stories that accompany each print. Her work (primitive/folk) has been judged to be of museum quality by an area curator. She works with a very fine, triple zero brush using acrylic paints.

The Barn, is the exclusive outlet for her signed prints.

We can be found behind the Grand Union in downtown Corinth.

See our ad on page 12

Cooper’s Cave Ale Company Local Product Gift Boxes

2009 Jamis Commuter Bike form Elevate Cycles

Maple Products from MapleLand Farms

Resolve to go green, buy local and save gas in 2009.

Do it all on the new 2009 Commuter bikes from JAMIS. Commuting by car is a chore. Commuting by bike, especially one designed for it, is quite the opposite.

The JAMIS Commuter has the latest bicycle technology with hip commuter stylings and comfort. Getting to work shouldn’t be, well, work. There’s plenty of time for that once you hit the office. Bookend your workday with something that makes you feel good.

Decompress on a Commuter and go home grinning.

Available at Elevate Cycles - 2 locations to serve you: 1570 Rt. 9 Clifton Park call 371-4641 35 Van Dam St, Saratoga Springs call 587-0455 See our ad on page 5

Choose the sweetest local gift this Holiday Season – maple syrup and candies from MapleLand Farms in Salem. At MapleLand Farms, we take great pride in the products we offer.We have won numerous contests for our maple syrup and maple products on both the local and international level. MapleLand Farms works hard to bring to you that personal touch when it comes to gift giving. We can ship any order, anywhere, in the container of your choice. Or better still, let us pick out a pretty fruit basket or wooden box to send your gift in. Our gift packages include such things as pancake mix, syrup, maple candy and maple cream.

No matter what the combination, it will be a gift from the heart and taste treat for the tummy. Maple syrup and maple products also make for great corporate gifts and wedding favors.

See our ad on page 10

As a local micro-brewery, our success is based on support from local people, local products and local businesses. So we are proud to sell local products in our tasting room. Create your own Gift Box or let us customize one to meet your needs and price range.

Choose from our Ales, Sodas, Cave Wear and any of the local products we carry to create the perfect Gift Box for anybody for any occasion. When you create the box you want, we can ship UPS anywhere (restrictions apply).To create a Gift Box, contact CCAC at: 518-792-0007 or brewers@cooperscaveale.com See our ad on page 21

19

Come visit the village of Chatham - the retail center of Northern Columbia County. The area is a great example of 19th century charm and 21st entrepreneurialism. Weekends are likely to see Main Street and the surrounding area filled with shoppers drawn to the village’s charming diversity of stores, restaurants and galleries.

20

VISIT CHATHAM

By Kathy Stumph, President of the Chatham Business Alliance

Chatham was incorporated as a village in 1847. From the 1850s to the 1950s, Chatham was an important RR main line station with over 200 trains a day passing through the village.

Today, although trains no longer stop in the village, you can still hear the whistle as CSX and Amtrak continue the rich railroad tradition.The train station,once deserted,has been reinvented as the Kinderhook Bank. Windows that once sold tickets now serve as teller windows.

Books offers gently read books at an affordable price. Two more steps around the corner is Berkshire Books, where the owner Bob will help you locate any book that your want in his antique and rare bookshop.

This is a village that is sweet on children.The Chocolate Moose makes a huge variety of its now-famous chocolate. On many occasions the chocolate fountain can be seen bubbling away as the aroma of rich chocolate wafts down the street.

The architecture in this historic village is exquisite.Wonderful, old buildings line the main streets and the afternoon sun just glows in the red brick. Awnings in front of many buildings transport residents and visitors alike to a time long ago when horses and carriages were the main means of transportation.

"You can get any thing you want." in Chatham.The downtown area, while beautiful, offers shops and services with practical usage. "A good deal of Chatham's charm is that we have not become a tourist town. By keeping a base of practical shops shops that carry items that people actually need - we have maintained a vitality that other villages may be lacking," enthused Kathy Stumph, president of the Chatham Business Alliance.

Fine women's (The Dakota) and men's (Just Jack's) clothing are available. Warm outdoor wear continues to be the staple of the Banner Clothing Store where Carhart still rules. Brown's Emporium offers practical and fashionable footwear and clothing. For the very eco- minded shopper, Cow Jones Industrials carries a full inventory of vegan footwear, belts, purses, and other items.Truly, there is something for everyone.

In an age of mega bookstores, our downtown offers three unique and friendly local bookstores where you can get anything from best sellers to vintage and rare books. In addition to all the latest books, the Chatham Bookstore has a fantastic children's section - where children and adults often spend hours browsing. Just across the street Dodie's Hock It

All the popular toys can be found at the new Clocktower Toys and Gifts. "Thomas the Tank Engine" and "Doug and Melissa" toys are both fully stocked in this sweet shop. Children's clothing is available both at The Warm Ewe and across the street at Chatham Kids where the focus is on organic items made in the USA. Here, too, are items that are made locally woolen jackets made in Hudson, nightlights made in New Paltz, etc.

Chatham business has bloomed partly because of the sense of community that is important here. Many restaurants and caterers make an effort to buy local produce, meats and specialty products. A booming farmer's market, the Main Street Grainery health food store, and fabulous farm stands like the Berry Farm all provide organic, locally produced food and goods.

Awareness of the surrounding community is evident is the businesses within the Village. The Columbia Land Trust is responsible for preserving acres and acres of farmland in the area. Their office on Main Street is a treasure trove of information about the area including walking tours and special event listings.

VISIT CHATHAM. Take the time to stroll through the Village andenjoy all we have to offer. Check the chathambusinessalliance.org website for information of businesses and special events.

21

WINDS OF CHANGE Blow Onto West Mountain

By David De Lozier Change. It's been the political mantra of the year. It's the roller-coaster Queensbury, where there's not much available. Plus, the extra revenue ride of gas prices and stock portfolios. Sometimes, though, it'd be nice that it will generate will help fund other investments, maybe even a to see that some things never change. One such constant in our midst new lift in a couple of years.” Mike does not want to fund a new lift has been the West Mountain Ski Area, just off exit 18 of the Northway. acquisition by raising ticket prices. He knows that his low-priced lift While the entire ski industry has ticket keeps people coming back. embraced the bigger is better,gonzo-mega Long-time fans of West Mountain may not resort model,West Mountain has remained recognize the place. The lodge has been unchanged year after year, with its old transformed - an Adirondack log façade school lift system (last upgraded in the and stone pillared entrance will greet 1970's) and retro-style lodge with picnic them this season, and the new restaurant tables and box cubbies for your boot will feature sweeping views of the mounbags.And in a world of corporate takeovers tainside. The old pub favorites will and huge state subsidies, West Mountain remain on the menu, along with the remains locally owned and independent. addition of fine dining choices that will The big news last year was that West was please the most discriminating palate. sold. Long time local owner “Crazy” Mike All in all, it is the one change this year Brandt sold his beloved ski area to longthat everybody will embrace. time manger Mike Barbone. Meet the new It's obvious that Mike Barbone has faith boss - same as the old boss! “You can call me crazy, too,” said Mike Barbone. “I'd have to be to take on this place in West Mountain. More importantly, he has faith in the people who with what's going on in the industry.” Electric rates and gas prices are are the West Mountain family - the staff who return year after at all-time highs, skier visits industry-wide are down, and West year, and the local skiing community who have been coming to this Mountain has to compete with neighboring Gore Mountain, which place for four generations. With that kind of faith in us, we can just got a $7 million infusion from the State for a huge expansion project. only respond by doing all we can to support West Mountain and the “If Gore wants a new lift,they just put up a spending bill in the legislature. other locally-owned businesses in our community - for their success If I want a new lift, I'll have to raise my ticket price, and that will chase is our success! away the local families”explains Mike. “Our lifts may be old, but they're paid for. We stay on top of their maintenance, and they get a safety inspection every year.” It's a great example of practicality and thrift, and a good reason why West Mountain continues to deliver value to our community year after year.

Perhaps the biggest reason West Mountain keeps on keeping on is its location - just 3 miles off of I-87, and the city of Glens Falls at its front door. “Where else can you go skiing within a few minutes from home or work?” asks Mike. “And we're within an hour's drive to most of the Capital Region. And you can choose when and for how long you want to ski...” West sells 2, 4, 6 or 8 hour lift passes, allowing you to ski at your convenience - whether it's a few runs in the morning or making turns under the lights after work. And for those who don't ski, but still want a downhill thrill, try the tubing park. Careening down an icy slope on a rubber tube at high velocity and no brakes may seem like a crazy idea, but try it once, and you'll be hooked!

The night skiing is perhaps West Mountain's greatest asset. It adds a whole new dynamic to the skiing experience. Open until 10 PM weeknights, folks can ski and tube after work. It also offers a rare winter recreational outlet for kids after school. West has been working with area schools for years, allowing their ski clubs a much anticipated weekly outing to the slopes. Families also enjoy the late hours, giving them an opportunity to share valuable time together in the evening that might otherwise be lost to TV and iTunes.

So in a world of constant change, West Mountain remains the same as it ever was. Until now. Old reliable is getting a face lift, with a complete revamp of the base lodge facility. When Mike Barbone took over the reins of the operation, he wanted to offer more than just winter sports.

He saw the mountain as a year-round asset to the community, and decided that expanding the restaurant to year-round service would be his first priority.“This mountain is beautiful, and we want people to enjoy it in every season,”Mike explained. “We'll be able to host special events, do weddings, and offer a great dining option to this part of

22

GET REAL this Christmas!

By David De Lozier O Christmas tree, how eco-friendly are you? There has been a lot of discussion lately on whether to buy an artificial or live Christmas tree this holiday season. When you weigh the naughty and nice lists, the answer comes back that the greenest option is to buy a live, farmed tree. Choosing a real Christmas tree is the only socially conscious and ecologically sound natural choice.

The best option is to choose a tree from your local tree farm.

Christmas trees are, except for cultivated forests, the most environmentally friendly crop around. This is because a tree is harvested only after ten years. To ensure future harvests, ninety percent of the farm must remain in trees all the time. This means that for 10 years your tree has been providing a refuge for birds and other forms of wildlife and making an essential contribution to the atmosphere taking in carbon dioxide and other gases and producing substantial quantities of fresh oxygen.

Christmas Tree farming does not harm the environment in any way.

Chip Ellms, of Ellms Trees in Charlton, says that Christmas tree farms actually improve the environment. “Everybody knows that trees produce oxygen, but it is the young trees that produce the most,”he said. Just one acre of Christmas trees produces enough oxygen to support eighteen people. In the process, CO2 is taken out of the atmosphere, counteracting the production of CO2 resulting from human use of fossil fuels. The approximately 15,000 Christmas Tree Farms in America produce approximately 1 million acres of trees with an average of 3 trees planted for every one harvested. “An average acre can grow about 1,000 trees, so that means there are about a half a billion evergreen trees growing every year,”says Chip.

“These trees would not be planted if not for the production of real Christmas trees.”

Overall, American Christmas tree farms generate enough oxygen every day to sustain approximately 20 million people. Compare that to the artificial Christmas tree that not only produces toxic hydrocarbons as a byproduct of the manufacturing process, but also fills up our landfills when disposed of.

Christmas Tree Farms also have become an important part of local agritourism. The annual trek to search for the perfect tree has become an annual tradition for many families. Bob's Trees in Galway has been making Christmas memories since 1942. “We have one customer that has been coming here every year since we first opened, said Bob Eaton Jr., co-owner and son of Bob the founder.

“It's a family tradition - something everyone looks forward to every year,” he said.“More than just a place to pick up any old tree, we are a day of family activities and memories.” Both Bob's and Ellm's really get into the Christmas spirit, with wagon rides out to the tree stand, a Christmas shop, and even Santa and his reindeer arrive on weekends in December. How they can be in both places at once is a little baffling, though.

The real reward of choosing a natural Christmas tree comes when it is set up and decorated. There's no assembly required, and that good wintry pine scent only comes from a natural tree. There is nothing like a natural Christmas tree to enjoy at Christmas time.The look, the scent and the very feel of a REAL tree are integral parts of the warm, homey atmosphere of our most festive season.

23

24

25

Wine Gift Set from Johnston’s Winery

Porcelain Jewelry from Raina’s

Sausations Gift Baskets from The Village Pizzeria

Don’t arrive empty handed! Bring the Johnston’s Winery Gift Set to your next Holiday gathering and show your local cool. Share the fresh taste of Johnston’s fruit, grape, or mead wines, made in the same tradition of Ancient and Modern Europe. Better yet, invite the gang out to the Galway countryside to tour the winery and sample the many Old World flavors. The winery is on the way to Bob’s Trees – stop in after picking up you Christmas Tree!

See our ad on page 7

Ever broken a china plate and just thrown away all the pieces? Raina’s of Saratoga Springs transforms fine china shards into beautiful, one-of-a-kind jewelry, unlike anything else you’ve ever seen. Raina’s also uses natural stone, Swarovski crystal, sterling silver and freshwater pearl components. Choose from a wide variety of styles, colors, and original designs from delicate to bold. Select a gift that no one else will have. Unbelievable prices, amazing selection.

Special Eco-local Sale – Save 10 % through New Year’s Day 2009.

See our ad on page 13

Anybody who has visited the Village Pizzeria in East Galway knows that their pasta sauce is magnifico!

Jessica and Sandy are now bottling the sauce and offer it as the foundation to their fantastic gift baskets, loaded with Italian Specialties for any occasion. Stop by on the way back from picking up your Christmas Tree at Bob’s Trees and choose a basket for that special person. If you don’t see what you like, Jessica can custom make a basket to your liking. Call her at 882-9431 to order.

See the ad on page 23

Fudge Pies from Schuyler Sweets

Green and Organic Gifts from the Green Grocer

Grass-Fed Beef from Mack Brook Farm

Beeswax candles, imported teapots, Japanese incense, bath supplies, organic cotton clothing, juices, food dehydrators, pet snacks – The Green Grocer is your one stop shop for all things Green and Organic for gift giving.

1505 Route 9, Clifton Park 383-1613 See our ad on page 6

Ecolocal Holiday Special - 10% OFF BEEF BRISKET AND LONDON BROIL! Put a brisket in the crockpot with your favorite barbeque sauce and have dinner for the family or food on hand for guests.For an easy main course, marinate a London Broil with your favorite marinade for a few hours or a few days. Grill or broil for ten minutes a side. Slice thin. Use leftovers for sandwiches or delicious chef salads. Call (638-6187) or email (mackbrookfarm@mac.com) the farm to get your holiday meat at a this money-saving discount.

Mack Brook Farm is your source for sustainably raised, grass-fed, grass-finished beef. 312 McEachron Hill Rd., Argyle, NY 12809 www.mackbrookfarm.com See the ad on page 9

Everybody loves fudge, and now Schuyler Sweets in Schuylerville has made it easy to give it as a gift with their new Fudge Pie. The soon to be famous Schuyler Sweets homemade fudge is now available in a 5 inch pie tin for easy transport to Grandma’s house this Holiday Season.

Choose from 8 house designs, or we can customize your Fudge Pie to your liking. Just ask. $5.50 each or get two for $10.00 See our ad on page 14

26

27

CONSIGNMENT Craze

By Heidi Soos

So many clothes, and nothing to wear…that I like, that is. As I peer into my closet, I see a waste land of nearly new clothes and accessories, that, quite frankly, I have lost interest in wearing. Last year’s “have-to-have” is today’s “gotta-get-rid-of.” But with all the money spent on these items, I can’t just throw them out or give them away. Luckily, I’ve found a way to get a return my clothing investment – Consignment!

I gather up my unwanted outfits on hangers, and make an appointment at my local consignment store.

When the item sells, I’ll make 50% of sale amount!

These days, every dollar counts. I’ve found I can make great money selling things I don’t use. I’ve put gas in my car, food in my belly, and it even helps pay my bills. And, I can great deals on beautiful, nearly new clothes that are unique, classic and amazingly affordable! The vintage items are so much fun. My girlfriends and I have such a great time giggling at the outlandish fashions of the past. What were they thinking?

What I love about consignment shops is they have new items everyday It feels like Christmas every time I walk into one. And spending a fraction of what I would pay retail. I mean real high-end designers, like Prada, Stuart Weitzman, Gucci, Versace, Channel, Juicy Couture, Dolce & Gabbana, 7 jeans, and many more!

Even “Abercrombie & Fitch,” for the fickle Teenager who has to have THE brand. My most recent find was a pair of Frye boots and a beautiful silver ring for my sister for Christmas. I was so happy, my face hurt from smiling.

Shopping at Consignment stores supports local folks.

The shop owner can make a living, and all of us consigners can earn extra cash. Mall shops and chain stores export our dollars out of town and overseas. But at the Consignment store, 100% of the money you spend stays local. How cool is that!? Knowing I’m helping my local community gives me all the more reason to shop Consignment.

So…. visit your local consignment store today and recycle, reuse, support your community, and have fun doing it.

28

Fast Food for

FICKLE FOODIES

By David De Lozier

Think of fast food - what often comes to mind is a cheeseburger with fries served up through the takeout window at some national chain joint. It may be fast, and it may fill the void in your stomach, but it's not exactly the food that your body needs. Unfortunately, health food and fast don't often go together. But in the hectic graband-go lifestyle, where can you go to get something a little healthier than just shredded iceberg lettuce on a burger in a white bread roll. And what if you're one of the many people with food allergies?

There are virtually no options for those with celiac disease (a wheat gluten intolerance), dairy, egg or nut sensitivities.

Fortunately, there's an oasis for the fickle foodie, just outside Saratoga Springs. I'm talking about Jitter's Café and KD Fish Fry, side-by-side locally-owned restaurants located in the Country Club Plaza on Geyser Road.

Jitters is a gourmet Music Café, according to owner Gina Prince. “All my food is made from scratch, with a preference for organic ingredients” For vegetarians on the run,Gina can whip up a gourmet wrap that includes her homemade garlic hummus and tabouli, with her signature purple cole slaw. Meat eaters love the Italian Jitter, a classic blend of sliced meats piled high on a sub roll overflowing with finely chopped green peppers, red onions, tomatoes and black olives. The entire menu is take-out ready, but once inside Jitters, you may just want to sit a spell and enjoy the colorful ambiance of the place. There's usually someone strumming on a guitar, perhaps practicing for the open mic night on Wednesdays. Like the food, The music scene at Jitters is local and organic, too. Friday and Saturday nights showcase up and coming singer-songwriters, old hobos other assorted musical talents from the region. There's a constant ebb and flow of “Jitterheads,” the regulars that make Jitters a great local hangout. It's a place of passion and warmth that feel like home. Come for the food, stay for the flavor. Just don't ask for fries with your meal - you'll have to go next door for that.

As the name implies, Jitter's next-door neighbor, KD's Fish Fry, serves up the classic New England fried fish fillet on a roll, but the there's a lot more to this fish story. Co-owner Dawn O'Donnell has created a whole menu of items that are designed to please the palate of food allergy sufferer. For those who have difficulty with wheat, soy, dairy, or nut allergies, KD's is like heaven on earth. “I've struggled with celiac disease all my life,”said Dawn,“Until recently, the entire food industry has ignored people like me. Taking matters into her own hands, Dawn developed recipes that eliminate those ingredients that cause problems for some individuals, yet still taste “normal.” In fact, Dawn's food is fantastic! She even has a patent pending on her a vegan butter alternative. “I have complete meals and desserts for anybody with food allergies,” explains Dawn. “People have come from as far away as New Jersey, thanking me for making food that they can eat without worry.” And for everybody else, Dawn's home-style cooking is guaranteed to satisfy. The hand breaded fresh fish fillets are twice the size of the bun. All the salads are made fresh daily, and the fryer grease is trans-fat free. It's real food, for real. One bite, and you'll make KD's a regular stop.

On a side note, Jitters was a favorite spot of Phish frontman Trey Anastasio while spending time locally “rehabilitating.”

29

FAIR TRADE Connecting People with the Products

By Kim Andersen

You might have seen that fair trade label, on a package of rice, an urn of coffee in a coffee shop, or a delicious chocolate bar.

Or perhaps you buy jewelry or handicrafts that are fairly traded.

Ever wonder exactly what that means?

Fair trade is an international system of commerce that links farmers and artisans in producer countries with consumers around the world. The goal of the fair trade process is to alleviate world poverty by empowering small producers.

Artisans and farmers are often paid in advance for their products and, by eliminating middleman costs, prices are kept competitive for consumers.

Fair trade is much more than just a means to negotiate a fair price --- the concept is aimed at supporting environmental sustainability,respecting cultural identity,and building grassroots democracy. The main principles of fair trade are: fair wages to artisans and farmers, no child labor, cultural sustainability, gender equity, transparency, care for the environment and democratic workplaces. Investing in fairly traded goods is investing in your global community. The idea is to protect the developing nation and its workers from potential exploitation, both environmentally and financially, by wealthier nations and large corporations. Fair trade practices also promote the building of infrastructure to encourage growth within the developing world.

How can you, as an individual, help the fair trade movement?

The first and easiest way is to look for the fair trade label on commodities. In the grocery store, you’ll find tropically produced fair trade foods such as coffee, chocolate, tea, sugar, bananas and other fruits, rice, cocoa, and vanilla. If you are shopping for clothing, jewelry, house wares, accessories, toys and more, seek out a business that is a member of the Fair Trade Federation (www.fairtradefederation.org). Educate yourself (and your children) about the products you buy and ask yourself these questions when considering a purchase: • Where do they come from?

• What are the conditions under which they’re made?

• What’s the culture of the people who make them?

If you are looking for ways to promote social responsibility and environmental sustainability with your shopping dollars this holiday season, consider looking right in your own community for locally-made or fairly traded products. By buying locally you are investing back in your community. You are supporting local farmers and artisans and the small businesses that help to promote them. By shopping for fairly-traded items it’s almost like you are buying directly from an artisan or a farmer of the developing world.

Going further, you can help educate your community about fair trade and why it is important by bringing fair trade products into your workplace, faith community, or school.

And, most importantly, you can ask your favorite local retailers to carry fair trade goods. Through the Fair Trades Towns USA initiative, your whole town can become a fair trade community! Locally, the Village of Ballston Spa is on the path to becoming the first Fair Trade town in New York State. Look for the official announcement in the beginning of 2009.

Kim Andersen is the Owner of Mango Tree Imports and Las Mariposas Language Center, located at 2124A Route 50 in Ballston Spa. Mango Tree Imports carries items from more than 55 countries of the developing world and offers a wide variety of jewelry, housewares, toys, holiday cards, accessories and more, with something for everyone in the family.

30

31