eco-LOCAL Living Harvest 2010

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On the Cover

The Harvest Season brings on many sights, tastes and experiences for everyone. No place has brought more memories and flavors of the harvest past and present to more people than Lakeside Farm in Ballston Lake. The iconic barn on the dramatic curve where Round Lake Road becomes Schauber Road has been the place to find the tastes of the season - apples, apple cider and apple cider donuts, for three generations. Dick Pearce has been the inspiration and perspiration for Lakside Farm for it's entire existence. His gentle character and boudless enthuusiasm has been the driving force behind the cider stand turned Farmers Market/Restaurant/Country Store phenomenon that it is today. In a world of constant change, Lakeside Farm defies the odds by doing the same thing year in and year out. And it's working like a charm, because despite the national recesion aflicting many businesses, Lakeside Farm continues to draw a crowd every day. Good old fashioned service, value and consistency are the hallmarks of success at this cherished community institution. There is no recession for those who can deliver on these principles. They work wherever they are practiced, at any time in the past,present and future. Thanks to Dick Pearce and Lakeside Farm,we have a shining example of how to do business the right way. Their commitment to local farms, local community, and local land stewardship makes them our eco-localizer for the this 2010 Harvest Season!

DEPARTMENTS

FEATURES

7

News and Views

18-19

8

The Wellness Doc

Lakeside Farm A Local Tradition

9

Money Matters

20-21

Local Economic Outlook It’s Going to the Dogs

23-24

Fallon Wellness A New Prescription for Health

16-17

Selling the GREEN DREAM An interview with Jane Sanzen and Deborah Andersson of Select Sotheby's Realty

22-23

Altamont Vineyard Winery Carrying on the Old World Traditions

40-41

R&G Cheese The BIG Cheese in a Small Town

10 Ask the Energy Expert 12 The Joy of Functional Living 13 The GREEN Designer 42 Eco-LOCAL Events

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Letter from the Publisher The long,hot Summer of 2010 has come to a close,and while the heat was uncomfortable for most humans, the vegetable kingdom seemed to to like it just fine. The dreaded blight of 2009 was nowhere in sight, and anybody growing tomatoes this year has been supplied with a bumper crop. Along with green beans, and squash, and peppers, corn and you name it, 2010 has been a fantastic year for growing local. The one bit of bad news was that the warm spring got the apple blossoms started too early, and a cold snap in May killed a lot of the potential apple crop. There will still be plenty of apples to enjoy this autumn season, just not the typical bounty that we are used to here in upstate NY. All the more reason to get out early and stock up on your favorite variety of apples.

Fall is a great time to get out to the countryside of the upper Hudson Valley. The autumn colors seem to be much more alive out on the back roads; this is also where you'll find the gems of agri-tourism - farms where you can interact with the the sights, sounds and smells. Of course, the pick-you-own apple orchards are perhaps the most direct contact with the farmers' land and craft - you have an opportunity to be a farm hand, although it may only be for the time it takes to pick a supply for your own family. And the fastest growing segment of agri-tourism is the corn maze. Fortunately, because of the farming country being so close to our population centers, there is a good chance that there is a corn maze attraction near you. We've got a special agri-tourism page in this issue, so be sure to get out to one of the featured farms and go get lost for the day. Don't worry, if you truly get lost, all the farms have scouts that will retreive the hopelessly lost!

One dimension of the harvest season that may be unfamiliar to most people in this region is the grape harvest. New York is a top grape and wine producer, but the Capital Region and upper Hudson Valley are not exactly "on the map" if you are looking for vineyards and wineries. But thanks to the efforts of a few intrepid souls, our region is beginning to see the emergence of viniculturethe craft of growing grapes for wine. The DiCresenzo family of Altamont are forging ahead with their plans to put the region onto the wine map of New York State. Taking cues from the tenacious Larry Grossi before them, the DiCresenzo's are proving that colder climates can produce fine wines.

Find their story inside, and add them to your destination list this fall.

Not all the great finds of the season are out in the country...tucked into a back room of the Harmony House Marketplace in downtown Cohoes you'll find the Big Cheese - Sean O'Conner of R & G Cheese Co.,making his soon to be famous chevre and mozzarella. Already making waves in "foodie" circles, R& G was a featured cheese on the prestigious cheese boards of the recent US Open. The Harmony House Marketplace is is reinventing itself again, and the O'Conner's cheese making skill will be in full view from the new bakeshop and cafe. Thanks to the gals at the Harmony House, downtown Cohoes is going through somewhat of a revival. It's worth checking out!

I am very excited that you are reading this copy of eco-LOCAL Living! It means that you are one more person who is getting the message that the local-living economy is here,and you are helping to make it the driving force of our prosperity in the future. Our goal is to connect you to the people and the places of this new local economy. We've added more column contributors, and continue to bring you interesting local people who are leading the sustainable lifestyles movement by their example. This magazine is free, only because it has been paid for by the advertisers within. If you enjoy reading eco-LOCAL and want to see it continue, it is vital that you reach out and do business with these people. Your interaction with them will make your life better... I guarantee it! Together, we will be the change that we want to see in the world... thank you!

- David DeLozier, Publisher

Every effort has been made to avoid errors and misspellings; however, if you see an error, please accept our apologies. We welcome your ideas, articles, and feedback so that we can give you the best service possible. eco-LOCAL Living does not guarantee nor warrantee any products, services of any advertisers, nor will we be party to any legal or civil claims or promises. We expect advertisers to honor any claims or promises. We reserve the right to revise, edit and/or reject any and all advertising with or without cause. Liability is limited to the cost of the ad space in which it first appeared for printing errors of the publisher's responsibility or if the publisher fails to print an ad or article for any reason. We reserve the right to edit articles if needed for content, clarity and relevance. Unless otherwise noted, we use the Creative Commons License (in place of standard copyright), which allows anyone to freely copy, distribute, and transmit all content, although it must be attributed in the manner specified by the author or licensor, and no one may use it for commercial purposes, or alter, transform, or build upon it.

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PUBLISHER / EDITOR / SALES David Delozier 518-858-6866 ecolocalliving.com

DESIGN / PRODUCTION Centerline Design 518-883-3872

PHOTOGRAPHY Tom Stock - stockstudiosphotography.com, David Delozier, Deborah Austin Heather Bohm-Tallman

CONTRIBUTORS Harry Moran, Rodney Wiltshire, Amy Stock,Tracy Frisch, Sara Ellis, Stacey Morris, Joe Constantine, Jr., Dermot Jinks, Mary Beth McCue

SUSCRIBE Eco-LOCAL Living is the free bi-monthly magazine for people choosing to lead sustainable, intentional lifestyles in New York's Upper Hudson Valley. Eco-LOCAL can be found throughout the region at independent retailers, shops, restaurants and other high traffic locales (visit www.ecolocalliving.com to find a location near you). If you would like to receive a subscription for convenience, send $24 along with your name and address to: eco-LOCAL Media 38 Tamarack Trail Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.

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

SUPPORT We seek to transform this special region of upstate New York into a local living economy 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 by the 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!

News and Views LOCAL FARM CHOOSES A UNIQUE WAY TO PROMOTE GO-GREEN INIATIVES & SUSTAINABLE ENERGY Schuylerville corn maze uses 7-acre canvas to raise environmental awareness Recycle, Reduce, Reuse, Go-Green, sustainable energy, climate change, global warming; these are all terms that each of us have heard almost daily in our personal lives. They are not just the latest buzz words or phrases, but they are all part of a larger movement that affects us all one way or another. We all have an opportunity to take part in this movement; it may be just as simple as turning off a light when you leave the room, changing over to electronic billing instead of paper, or buying from your local farm stand instead of heading miles further to the grocery store. Jerry Macica, of Schuyler Farms

is important to both the community and to America’s farms. Tom Macica added that ‘Going Green’ is just part of the social fabric of today’s society and it is a movement that can only help ensure a healthy future for his kids and for future generations. The three Macica brothers felt that the family farm could use their 7-acre corn maze to promote the ideas of ‘Going Green’ and sustainable When Schuyler Farms began energy. The maze design features the considering the theme for their universally recognized recycling family’s 9th annual corn maze the triangle, wind mills, the sun, and yes clear choice was to “Go Green”. Ken they even carved corn into the corn Macica of Schuyler Farms said that field. sustainable energy is something that Corn Maze, points out “Going Green” has become a lifestyle for more and more people and Mother Nature surely appreciates it. But he is also quick to point out for the skeptics that there are personal benefits to “going green”. Reduced energy bills, healthier food choices, improved health, or even having extra change in your pocket.

The Macica brothers intend on using this years annual fall festival at Schuyler Farms to help promote ‘Going Green’. This will include promotional material for school kids, sponsorships from environmentally friendly businesses and of course their giant maize maze. Jerry Macica added that “we are extremely excited about becoming a ‘green’ leader in our community and showing everyone that being green can be fun!”

If you would like more information on Schuyler Farms visit them online at www.schuylerfarms.com or call 518695-5308.

JUST SAY YES!

By Kathleen Quartararo Because never, ever, has saying, or today. We are trading everything we do, in a day, for a day of our lives. Did hearing NO elicited a good feeling. we consciously chose, or mindlessly Take 5 minutes, right now, to relive the follow, or worse, just react? last 5 no’s you heard – or even go back to how it felt to hear NO as a child, Saying yes feels great. It means something. It gives us a direction. and what do you answer with?

Something to look forward to…a WHY NOT?! HOW COME?! chance to treat ourselves; to pay To now. Go meet your friend. Have attention to the things, to the PEOPLE lunch with your Dad. Watch your kids in our lives that truly deserve our play. Go to the Show. Take a bike ride. attention. To do something, to be with Play with your dog. Go to the park. someone, to go somewhere. SAYING PEE! Take a nap! Do something YES! GETS US OUT OF THE RUT. It you’ve never done. Something you’re reminds us that we have the freedom afraid to do. Show up at the party to choose. And we do – everyday. We ALONE! Accept a last minute chose consciously, or we chose by our invitation.

Let yourself feel lack of attention, our indecision or our exhilaration, anticipation, excitement! inaction. But make no mistake, we are choosing each and every day, how we FEEL. How do you FEEL? spend our time, where we put our Just say it all, out loud, and see... no. attention, how we expend our energy.

FEEL how you feel. NO, I can’t go. I’m We can mindlessly, out of habit, too busy. Maybe tomorrow,. Work is continue with our rationalization of just so crazy. The house is a mess. I waiting. Or, we can do what feels am so behind. After the holidays. good - Why? Because when we feel When I retire. Seriously, the work is good, we feel relaxed. We feel never going to be done. The house will empowered. never stay clean. The projects will continue to line up. When will we So start today. Saying YES! realize that life truly is the journey? Kathleen is the Owner of Virgil’s House, 86 There is no final destination. There is Henry Street in Saratoga Springs. only now. Right this minute. All of

Stop in to Virgil’s House and say YES! To getting one free drink, when you buy one at the regular price! ecolocalliving.com 7

The Wellness Doc

By Dr. Dermot Connole Jinks, DC

Green Inside We are all working hard to preserve and protect the planet we live in.

We must live ‘greener’ lives to offset indiscretions taken with the environment in the past. But do you have the same ‘green’ consciousness with one of the most important environments under your control – your body.

antiplatelet effect of aspirin on blood clotting does keep blood viscosity low. (which is why you can’t take aspirin before scheduled surgery) Of course, the same sources that recommend this usage list risk factors supporting daily aspirin use as – family history of heart disease, past heart problems, elevated cholesterol, lack of exercise and/or poor eating.

At first glance it might seem silly to think green when talking about the human body. But like the Earth, there is a balance of important systems, process and chemical reactions that comprise the human experience – it has it’s own ecology.

The human body – like the Earth – is greatly influenced by chemicals.

The balance of biochemistry is influenced by the air we breath, the foods we eat, the liquids we drink, and the medications we take. It is interesting how we grasp the concern for fluorocarbons in the environment and the ‘big business’ influences that created the problem but miss concerns for widespread use of high fructose corn syrup in our foods and the same ‘big business’ influences. (see Wikipedia.com high fructose corn syrup).

profitability still move many to continue to pollute – both the planet and their bodies.

As an example look at what many consider the safest of all pharmaceutical products acetylsalicylic acid, which you know better as aspirin. Do you know what aspirin does in the body? It decreases the production of a hormone called prostaglandin. Prostaglandin is created by the body NATURALLY and is involved in a variety of functions in the body - including the expression of pain, raising the body temperature, decreasing blood platelet coagulation, and reabsorbing hydrochloric acid (created by the body to break down protein in the stomach) in the stomach. When you take aspirin you limit the amounts of this hormone and restrict those functions.

The need for restraint in the use of plastic, paper and fossil fuels is important for our future. This comes from understanding the relationship of these products with water, air, soil, plants and the animals of our world. Using a similar process of logic, I understand the relationship of the body to sugar, trans fats, foods that are more preservative than food (see ingredients on a bag of Doritos) and medications that aim more at comfort than creating health. (health being the improved function of the organ)Unfortunately, Most of us have heard someone say “I take as with our planet, the agenda of comfort and aspirin daily to keep my blood thin.” The

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What occurs to me is that, perhaps, most of these heart problems we suffer are related to unhealthy lifestyle choices as opposed to organic and/or genetic predisposition for heart disease. Maybe not. But does it make sense to you that Americans need to take 80 billion aspirins each year! These people are repeatedly interfering with a natural inclination to produce prostaglandin in response to things like headache pain from to much coffee/sugar and to little sleep, or a healthy-immuneresponse-generated fever, or maybe the need for the blood to coagulate because a blood vessel was damaged? I realize that there is a time for everything – including the use of aspirin – but the biochemistry changed and the enormous volume of aspirins ingested causes me to question.

I may be going out on limb here, but I think the popularity of taking aspirin may have something to do with the fact that aspirin is a billion dollar industry. It is more about address of an effect (pain) than resolution of cause (in most cases, lifestyle choices). But then that would be akin to creating and using a chemical for the primary purpose of making money by putting the comfort of an individual over health.

Now where have I heard that before.

Money Matters

By Harry Moran, CFP® AIF®

Solar Investing: Sunny Skies Ahead?

With Autumn's arrival and the days begin to grow shorter, many of us start to think about the approach of another winter heating season and of our energy sources in general. The BP disaster in the Gulf has once again heightened our awareness of the high cost of our addiction to fossil fuels and has prompted many of us to reexamine our options. With this in mind, I'd like to take a look at the state of solar energy which, along with wind power, is one of the two truly renewable and clean energy sources currently available on a significant scale. In addition to looking at the general state of and outlook for the industry, I'm going to share some thoughts on how the current landscape may affect consumers and shareholders of solar companies.

As anyone who has owned stocks of solar companies over the last few years is well aware, these have been trying times which have tested the patience and resolve of solar investors. As much of the stock market recovered sharply following the financial meltdown of 2008, shares of most solar companies have languished. In “2011: The Return of the Solar Shakeout”, Shyam Mehta points out that with Spain's rapid retreat from its position as a leading buyer of photovoltaic (PV) panels, coupled with the damage to the credit system stemming from the global financial crisis, many observers were expecting

a painful consolidation in the industry. This thesis was based on the expectation of demand being stagnant, manufacturing capacity continuing its long-term growth pattern and PV panels becoming a commodity which would mainly be sold by the lowest cost providers.

Well, for a number of reasons, the predicted doomsday scenario for solar manufacturers and shareholders didn't materialize, though things have certainly been far from rosy. What is noteworthy going forward though is that some observers such as Mehta expect that 2011 will be the year in which we finally see this major shakeout (consolidation to be more politically correct) in the solar arena. The argument is that it will be much tougher sledding for the higher cost producers who have thus far greatly benefited from the policies of countries such as Spain and Germany who have kept a floor under prices by implementing government “feed-in tariffs”. These tariffs ensured guaranteed rates for solar power, locked in by long-term contracts, which were much higher than the rates for conventional power. With Spain having dramatically reduced these incentives and effectively out of the game for now, and Germany announcing severe cuts to these tariffs due to its recent austerity measures, there may be no one to prop up these high cost manufacturers, and the severe, prolonged shakeout that was originally

predicted for last year may begin to manifest itself in early 2011. Needless to say this would be a very difficult environment for solar companies and their shareholders.

So what to make of all this gloomy sounding news? While investors in solar companies may indeed be facing a difficult period over the next year or two, this shakeout would be a sign of a maturing industry and would actually be very healthy for the long-term. The companies who survive this turmoil will be stronger and well positioned for future growth. In addition to this being very healthy for the industry, it would likely be great news for consumers in the near term as fierce price competition would likely drive prices down and solar would become affordable for many more people.

Investors in solar and shares of other renewable energy companies should have at least a 5 to 7 year time horizon and understand the volatility and risks associated with these investments. Since price fluctuations can be dizzying at times, systematic investing over a period of time (“dollar cost averaging”) can be an effective way to dampen the effects of this volatility and reduce the significance of the timing of an investment. Investing in mutual funds or exchange traded funds (ETF's) focusing on renewable energy provides instant diversification, professional management and somewhat greater price stability but these shares historically have still been quite volatile.

For those with long enough time frames and a high tolerance for risk, solar shares still offer great potential over the long haul and offer a means to support a technology which remains a key element of our clean energy future.

Harry Moran helps socially conscious investors define and achieve their highest goals by aligning their money with their values. A 24-year veteran of the financial services profession, Mr. Moran has held the Certified Financial Planner® designation since 1991. He is a network member of First Affirmative Financial Network, a national professional organization dedicated to meeting the needs of the socially conscious investing community. Mr. Moran can be reached directly at Cornerstone Financial Advisors at 518-877-8800.

Mention of specific securities, funds, or companies should not be considered an offer or a recommendation to buy or sell the security, fund, or company. To determine the suitability of any particular investment, please consult with your investment adviser. Remember, past performance is no guarantee of future results and no investment strategy can assure success. The opinions expressed are those of the author and may change without notice. Harry Moran is a registered representative offering securities through Cadaret, Grant & Co., Inc., member FINRA SIPC. Cadaret, Grant is not affiliated with Cornerstone or First Affirmative. ecolocalliving.com 9

Ask the Energy Expert

By Rodney Wiltshire, Engineer/President

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Empire Solar Store

Sealing the Home Envelope Over the years, many of my customers have asked me, “What the best way for my home to go Green and save Green at the same time?” Well, depending on your perspective, there are many “right” answers to that, but in my world, the customer usually expresses this question in another way, “What's the best bang for my buck?” The answer has been, and always will be found in living sustainably.

The first tenet to Sustainable Living is to Reduce (or refuse) consumption. In our home's Energy portfolio, that means lowering your demand for resources, and for most of us, our home's comfort level is the biggest driver of those demands.

But before you rush out to purchase a whole home's worth of replacement windows and new doors, you do have significantly more affordable options.

First off, if the doors and windows do mechanically function (open, close, and lock) as they are intended, then you absolutely have no reason to replace them (unless you like spending lots of money), and even if some are broken, you can have them repaired locally for less than you would spend on replacement anyway. Now, if you are satisfied with the mechanical integrity of your home's existing windows and doors, then you can seal any of gaps on the sills and edges and with a light application of insulation, calk, weather-strips, felt, or a combination of these items (all of which should cost you less than $50 for your entire home). Now, if that's all you do, you have just taken a huge step in sealing your home up , arguably for pennies.

In the summer months, many of us try to beat the heat with Air Conditioners, and in the Winter Months, we are heating our homes with all sorts of methods. Those of us who choose to use less (Fans instead of AC's, wear sweaters indoor in the winter) do so at the expense of the creature comforts After you have sealed the miniscule gaps, you can then install a removable that we have grown accustomed to feeling entitled to (for better or worse). product called an Advanced Energy Panel. Manufactured locally by Window The vast majority of us, who do heat and cool conventionally, do so very Term, these devices are reusable, clear barriers that are custom-made for inefficiently. Mostly, this is because even though we may be using new each (and every shaped) window and installed inside your home, adding and improved technology in our furnaces and AC units (that make them insulation to your existing windows. The total insulation that these panels more energy efficient), our home's shell or envelope (as it's called in our achieve is greater than that of standard new or replacement windows - and line of business) is so leaky, that your equipment is literally heating and for a significantly lower cost. In addition to insulating your home from heat cooling the outdoors. Believe it or not, most of us do not live in Energy transfer, they also aid in sound insulation as well, so you will notice a Star rated homes that have been constructed in the past 5 years. With that “quieter” home.

said, most of the following discussion will be very relevant to existing Now that we've tackled the doors and windows, it's time to get to the main homes ten years and older. membrane of your home's envelope, your basement, walls, and attic. These Well, that said, I think most of you are probably aware of what comes next: are the spots in your home where a continuous flow of heat penetrates in how to seal the envelope. Your home's envelope is composed with four and out throughout the day all year long. major types of weak spots: your roof, your basement, your walls, and your Your basement (or crawlspace) foundation walls are in constant contact doors and windows; each of which present their own type of problem and with the earth, and are usually around 50 degrees. Now, the space above the solution. Let's start with the “easiest” first. frost line where your home's sill plate is can be exposed to wintertime Doors and Windows; if your doors and windows leak like a sieve, then it's temperatures well below freezing. So, in the winter, your home's basement time to remedy that situation. Sometimes, this situation can be very obvious, basically becomes a heat sink for any heat radiated in your basement from and you can literally see the gaps (broken glass) or feel the rushing air your furnace, water heater, and plumbing or ductwork that is carrying the passing by. If you need a more expert opinion on the integrity of your heat to its destinations. Imagine for a moment, in the dead of winter, it is envelope, then a professionally conducted analysis can be performed with a 20 below with the wind-chill factor, and your furnace is firing away to keep “Blower Door Test” which will identify all the leaky spots in your home and your home comfy and cozy. That furnace has to work that much harder to overcome the environment that it is operating in, your ICE COLD basement. quantify the loss for you.

Your main floor's walls also present a point of penetration where heat loss and gain occur, though not as dramatically as the basement and attic. This is mainly due to the fact that your walls have 3 to 4 different types of membranes on the walls interior and exterior. Finally, heat rises, so much of the heat that enters the walls will elevate to the attic space before it leaves your shell.

Your attic may represent the largest culprit in this heat transfer battle; it is a two time loser. Most people have zero insulation on their roof structure (between the rafters) and only some inadequate insulation on their attic floor. What happens here in the winter is that most of the heat that is generated in your home rises to the top of your house due to convection and begins to transfer through your attic to the outside environment. So in the winter, your attic acts as a heat sink in a similar manner to your basement.

In the summertime, the sun's powerful radiation penetrates your roofing materials and heats your attic (temperatures up to 160 degrees F). This heating of your attic actually represents 95% of all of your summertime heating gain. So, while you are trying to keep your home's living space cool in the summer months, your attic is actually acting like a pressure cooker and “boiling” the contents of your home all the while you're fighting to keep it cool. This is even more difficult for those homes with central air ducts that run through the attic, all of that cool air is being 10 ecolocalliving.com

heated through your attic before it even gets to do its job.

OK, now that you've gotten the really bad news, what do you do? Well you insulate those areas properly, and understanding how heat is transferred is the first step. Heat always moves from warm to cool, and there are three ways in which heat is transferred from warm spaces to cold spaces: Conductive: the transfer of heat flowing through a solid or fluid material.

Convective: the transfer of heat which involves the physical movement of air when it is warmed.

Radiant: the movement of invisible heat rays from a warm surface to a cooler surface through a space.

Radiant Heat Transfer is responsible for 75% of all very expensive product for the amount of RHeat Transfer, so if you only deal with conductive Value you get, plus the installation effort or and convective, you are really not dealing with costs associated drive the total cost of this much. You MUST handle radiant heat transfer. type of insulation up considerably.

But before you run out to the local big box store Polyisocyanurate Spray foam insulation also and buy the “pink stuff” let's get back to the addresses all 3 types of heat transfer very well, original question and the best “Bang for your is very flexible in its installation, but it is the Buck” issue. You have options, and some of which most expensive product installed. In addition to I bet you didn't know about. its expense, it is a permanent installation The “pink stuff” or fiberglass insulation is, quite (removal is a bear), it can be messy, and may honestly, a very inefficient way of resisting heat contain volatile off-gassing compounds (VOCs) transfer, and that's all it does, resist. In addition to that may not be environmentally friendly. One its poor performance quality, it is not really fun to more thing about these foam insulators is that work with or touch and it can be easily they are not fireproof, so in the event of a fire in compromised by water damage or compression to your home, they will burn. do mishandling.

Insulated Reflective Foil represents the best of all Cellulose or blown-in insulation is slightly more worlds, and ultimately the best bang for your buck. effective than fiberglass, but also more When installed correctly, this type of bubble expensive, and again it has its place (blowing insulation material accomplishes what all of the into an existing wall structure), but also its above fail to do, and at the most affordable price. limitations similar to fiberglass but also that it Cost wise, Insulated Reflective Foil is as inexpensive settles, is messy, can't be easily removed, and as fiberglass (and that is installed) yet as effective can attract rodents and pests. as Spray foam. However, it's the associated Rigid Polyisocyanurate Foam-board insulation attributes, which make this a slam dunk. with a radiant barrier provides a better Benefits insulator than the above two as it begins to Foil insulation reflects 97% of radiant heat making address all 3 types of heat transfer, but it is a your home or building more energy efficient •

Unaffected by humidity or moisture • Class 1 / Class A fire rating (passes the newest fire test in the industry, ASTM E84-2009) • Non-toxic / noncarcinogenic • Environmentally safe • Fiber free • Durable and lightweight • Maintenance free • Lowers heating and cooling costs • Easy handling The product is most commonly installed in the following scenarios: Attic Installation, Wall Installation and Basement Installation.

This reflective product works primarily by blocking 97% of radiant heat therefore lowering the “Effective Radiation” emissions from a heat source is it the sun's rays penetrating your home or your furnace's heat leaving your home. What that leads to is an increased “Effective Insulation” value. In addition, this product acts as a vapor barrier, and prevents convective heat transfer as well as isolates moisture. Finally, the bubble air insulation aids in resisting conductive heat transfer. All combined, this lightweight, flexible, durable product can get your home's envelope sealed in the best and most affordable way possible.

See these products demonstrated and described at http://youtu.be/aMuhhnu6igc Empire Solar Store is located at 6 Brunswick Road (Route 2), Troy NY. Call 518687-0135 or go online to www.empiresolarstore.com.

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The Joy(s) of Functional Living

By Mary Beth McCue, RD, LDN, CDN

Food Safety, Functional Medicine and our Health Question - Editor David Delozier: “We expect that food from factory farms can be safe if we just have proper inspections (FDA, etc).

Congress may legislate more rules and regulations, but the problem cannot be solved this way. The problem is not with the inspections’; it is that factory farming is toxic on every level. So as a question...With the latest recall on eggs and past memory of major recalls on meats and even spinach, it's obvious that our national food system is not producing safe food.

What are the options for a family looking for clean healthy food today?

Answer - MBM: Do not rely on our “National Food System” 100% of the time for safe and frankly healthy & nutritious foods. There is virtually minimal effective levels and quality of nutrients in the soil of these foods to provide the body with what it needs. People have been forced into standardized, unnatural diets, and aggressive, chemical-based agriculture is ravaging ecosystems from the Great Plains to the Kalahari. Food has been stripped of its meaning, reduced to a mere commodity, and some would go as far to say its mass production is contributing to injustice all over the world. The problem hits at many levels beyond this article.

Fear not, the consumer trend IS out of the grocery stores and into the local community markets and farms, and “home growing/farms”.

The organic/sustainable industry is said to be THE fasting growing industry, and thus a more cost effective organic industry is emerging. I believe this is our answer and we need to continue to provide access to all.

Factory farming, that which is subsidized by our government; can be very toxic, because many

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corners are cut, safety measures are “forgotten” in many cases, and poorly conducted inspections – if they are completed- can all contribute to a toxic system. In many settings animals are squeezed into very uncomfortable, sometimes “abusive” unhealthy and unsanitary conditions.

This is all done in favor of our greedy US government and CORPORATIONS that run these farms. There are better methods; they choose not to use them. Farmers around the world are pressured into mortgaging their farms to purchase genetically modified seeds, pesticides, and fertilizer from American companies like Monsanto. It all leads back to money. This translates to devastation of lives on the part of the animals, the plant life and to the US citizens.

And the #2 point of my response is this is all a large contribution to creating a very unhealthy US culture, poor health, economic disaster in health care and beyond , etc. I think poor health affects everything. Do you see the full circle here? The system that created all this is not the system fixing it, and in many ways this is a good thing.

We need to continue to take things into our own hands –collectively if you will. We don’t have to be the “victims” of anyone’s’ experiment – especially our governments. We do not have to eat the foods (which are barely food) that are killing our nation and we do not have to abide by the incomplete advice given in the most broken health care system in the world - ours.

This is the “other side of the coin” in the food business – health care. One is actually feeding the other. People are getting progressively sicker from unhealthy and unsafe foods. The US Food System is maintaining business for the US Health Care System.

Dirty foods- from dirty environments can easily lead to a dirty body – which leads to chronic conditions.We are seeing this is the overwhelming amounts of auto-immune conditions such as with allergies. Conventional medicine seems to know little about resolving chronic conditions such as fatigue (and the unique sources of it) , cardiovascular disease, diabetes, depression, autism, and the list goes on. BUT, these ARE being resolved on a regular basis in the practice of functional medicine and nutrition. In addition, toss in toxic heavy metals such as lead from diesel fuel, mercury from pesticides and wastes, high levels of stress, and pharmaceuticals.

Over time these contribute to much of the chronic health conditions we see today. Chronic health conditions always leads back to 2 causes: Toxicity &/or stress. We are living longer yes, BUT on average, we are chronically sicker during these later years. Cleaning up your diet will help clean up your body. Toss in specific nutrients to re-grow the systems in your body that are down, eliminate the toxins, and you’ll be feeling and looking years younger.

I believe the end goal is in the process of being achieved: a world in which communities are entitled to food sovereignty; allowed to choose not only what they want to grow and eat, but also how they produce and distribute it. We are seeing this here in our own local communities as well as throughout the world. By choosing to eat sustainable foods and using a more sustainable health care practitioner as a compliment to conventional health care, one will surely, in the long run, save time, money and energy, and of course health – which is the reason why the others are “SAVED”.

The Green Designer

By Sophie Castro & Karen Totino

Woven Recycled Poplar: A beautiful and unique eco-friendly floor

There are few manufacturers of wood flooring that are as dedicated and eco-friendly as EcoTimber. This company was founded on the premise that the best way to preserve the world's forests is to build markets for wood and bamboo products sourced from superior models of forest management.

together using a heat reactive glue. This process creates similar characteristics to hardwood but a harder and more stable floor - 3000 per janka scale (white oak is 1360).

Woven poplar floors can be installed over hydronic radiant heat systems, and can be sanded and refinished.

What we appreciate about their products is that they are FSC certified - all the wood come from forests that are certified well-managed according to the rules of the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). The suppliers of EcoTimber adhere to forestry practices that guarantee a perpetual yield of high-quality timber while maintaining or restoring healthy, self-regenerating forest ecosystems.

“The Woven Recycled Poplar flooring represents a revolution in the flooring industry”, says Doug Foucault, Vice President of Product Development for EcoTimber, “it's comprised of 100% post industrial scraps of poplar from the furniture industry that is combined with a proprietary process of resin infusion and high compression. This makes it not only the most environmentally friendly The other quality of their wood products is floor on the market but also extremely durable that no urea-formaldehyde is used, and and extraordinarily beautiful.” therefore EcoTimber floors do not off-gas The good news is that this beautiful Poplar toxic VOC's (volatile organic compounds), wood floor comes in 4 colors, and is available which are known to vaporize in the air and at a discounted price through October. can have short- and long-term adverse health Karen Totino & Sophie Castro own Green effects.

Conscience Home & Garden, 33 Church Street in They came up with a innovative woven Poplar floor made of 100% FSC-recycled scrap from the furniture manufacturing and pulp industries. It is woven, which consists of veneer wood scraps compressed and woven

Saratoga Springs. Green Conscience is the local EcoTimber dealer and a retail showroom that offers a variety of organic, eco-friendly lawn, garden and home improvement products. Call 518-306-5196 or email: Karen@green-conscience.com

ecolocalliving.com 13

utumn is a great time of year to enjoy the great agricultural assets of the Upper Hudson Valley. We are blessed to have bountiful Apple Orchards nearby, many who invite you to pick your own. The crop is a little short this year, due to a late frost, so if you plan to go, go early in the season. And of course, who can resist the ultimate treat, Cider Donuts? Another way to get up close and personal to our nearby farms is to go get lost in one of the many corn mazes in the region. Don’t knock it till you’ve tried it. This activity is truly fun for the whole family, and local maze operators have got out to help you get lost with this years labyrinths. Schuyler Farms on Route 29 in Schuylerville is featuring a Go-Green Maze this year, to help you remember the three R’s – Reduce, reuse and Recycle. The corn maze, which is open through the end of October, has expanded to include gemstone and fossil mining, a petting zoo, miniature golf, hayrides, pumpkin patches and much more. Look for their Haunted Maze in late October. It’s an experience that will literally freak you out!

Liberty Ridge Farm, just outside of Stillwater in the town of Schagticoke is always a hot spot for fall activities. The centerpiece of Liberty Ridge Farm is the Fall Festival. The Harvest Season kicks off on September 18th and runs through November 11th 2010. It includes the Capital Region's largest corn maz , Brad's Barnyard Adventure and lots of family fun on the farm. You can venture by day or night through the 12-acre labyrinth of 13 foot high cornstalks, try all the activities in Brad's Barnyard, feed the farm animals, take a scenic trolley ride along the banks of the Hoosic River, and pick pumpkins.

Dine in the Quincy Room or out on the sprawling deck overlooking the farm. There's always fresh cider donuts from the farm kitchen.

Ellms Family Farm in the quaint hamlet of Charlton has been expanding their operation every year. In addition to the corn maze, ride the "MooMooChooChoo" to the pick you own pumpkin patches or jump on the Jumping Pillow - an Ellms Family Farm favorite! Take a leisurely break and have fun on our scenic trolley ride, or just sit and relax in the comfort of the inviting farm market setting. The Halloween hayrides are fun for everyone, and awesome apple cider donuts create memories and family traditions when you visit Ellms Family Farm.

No matter which way you go, there is something great to discover out on the country roads of the region. Don’t forget to pick up the last of the local produce while out and about. It’s a great time to process the harvest and stock up your pantry for the long winter ahead.

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ecolocalliving.com 15

Green Homes

Living in the Future - Today!

Interview by David DeLozier

Photos supplied by Select Sotheby's Realty

An interview with Jane Sanzen and Deborah Andersson of Select Sotheby's Realty, representing the unique homes at Louden Ridge, built by Capital Construction.

Beginning with its establishment in 1744, the Sotheby's Auction House earned a reputation in the valuation of fine possessions. Continuing this fine tradition in exceptional real estate and professional seller services, brokerages within the Sotheby's International Realty network represent many of the world's finest houses and estates. Sotheby's has relationships with a national and worldwide community of expert real estate professionals. Sotheby's Select of Saratoga sells a lifestyle…Jane and Deborah specialize in offering properties with a green lifestyle; their goal is to help the discriminating buyer to make the right decision when seeking a low-impact home. Jane and Deborah have earned their Green Realtor designation; the one designation approved by the National Association of Realtors. By doing so they are members of the Green Resource Council providing them with the growing body of information regarding sustainable building

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practices, materials, design considerations, statistics, and ongoing education.

Eco-LOCAL Living: The term “green building” is being thrown around a lot these days. What exactly is a “Green Building”?

Jane and Deborah: Simply put, green building is about building it right the first time; making it durable, long lasting, low maintenance, energy efficient, and healthy for the environment as well as the people who populate it.

ELL: There's a belief that green homes cost more. Why is that, and what are the benefits to the homeowner by “going green”?

J&D: Green building is a whole system approach which reduces environmental impact and improves the health and safety of the occupants. It provides features that ensure a healthy environment-such as the use of fewer materials which could undermine our health like the use of low VOC paints, or wood and

stone flooring- or the addition of a Heat Recovery system (HRV) which distributes fresh air in and expels stale moist air out. A Green Home should be durable and designed with efficient systems like energy star appliances and very efficient heating system, cellulose insulation, or simply the proper siting of the house to take fullest advantage of the sun's light and heat. Greater conservation is achieved by the use of recycled products such as fiber cement board which is made from recycled concrete. These types of features provide health, value and conservation benefits to the owner.

ELL: So a green home has a lower operating cost in the long term. With energy costs continually going up, that's a huge advantage!

Are there other advantages?

J&D: The lifestyle advantages of living in a green home include healthy indoor environment, and value in long term durability

and energy efficiency. The homes of Louden Ridge are also extraordinarily beautiful which clearly provide more subtle advantages.

ELL: With those benefits, I'd say that everyone should own a “green� home. Do you see the demand increasing for this type of construction?

J&D: Green is officially "mainstream"according to the Green Resource Council, 69% of the population is seeking green products and 76% perceive that green products are of a higher quality. Buyers are evermore concerned with energy efficiency, energy independence, and environmental issues facing the planet.

They wish to have their homes be a reflection of their values. Also the benefits of living in a healthy environment are of growing interest, especially to young families.

ELL: Sotheby's has teamed up with one of the area's leading green builders, Capital Construction, to market their unique homes at Louden Ridge in Wilton. What makes this relationship unique?

J&D: There is an ever increasing interest in sustainable building principles and energy conservation as well as health benefits of green home environments. Sotheby's representation of the environmentally responsible homes of Louden Ridge in Saratoga Springs is an example of their commitment to this emerging market.

ELL: So, for those people who are seeking out these unique homes - do they need to find a special real estate agent to help in their search?

J&D: Agents with a green designation are uniquely qualified to address this fast growing real estate market -They can provide knowledge, leadership, and understanding of Green real estate principles. The National

Association of Realtors Green Designation sets us apart, and indicates to the consumer that we are committed to the growing and positive force behind the Green Building movement. An agent with a Green Designation can tell the story of our product that helps to protect our world- communicate an understanding of green building practices, and make the connection between green building and value/benefits & performance.

ELL: What's your prognosis for the future - will most homes in the future be built with green technologies, or will this remain a specialty niche?

J&D: Sotheby's and Capital Construction and the future: Select Sotheby's International Realty represents unique and distinctive properties in the upstate region at large. We are so proud to

offer the brilliantly designed homes of Louden Ridge and provide our customers the possibility of an exceptional lifestyle with these properties.

We feel that our commitment to the highest quality of service, marketing, and relationships is the perfect match for the fabulous work of Frank Laskey of Capital Construction. We anticipate more demand for high quality Green Homes in the future. There is certainly a greatly increasing interest in conservation, and a greater commitment to protecting the environment and preserving natural resources for future generations. The future is what "green homes" are really all about.

For more information about the homes at Louden Ridge, call Jane (pictured below) at 526-6056 or Deborah at 496-0237 (bottom left), or go online to sothebysrealty.com.

ecolocalliving.com 17

Lakeside Farms

A Local Tradition

By Amy L. Stock l Contributing Writer

Photos by Tom Stock, stockstudios.com

“Ooh I love their apple pie!”

“They make the best fresh cider!”

“You have to try their breakfast - it's great.”

Mention the name Lakeside Farms to someone in Saratoga County and these are the kind of responses you're likely to get. Started in 1948, Lakeside Farms has been a mainstay in the Saratoga and Schenectady region for fresh apple cider, vegetables, baked goods, or a fresh homemade breakfast or lunch.

Rob Pearce and his brother, both from Schenectady, started this fourth-generation family business as “a means to make a little extra money on the side” said Dick Pearce (Rob's son). The brothers bought the Ballston Lake farm for its old barn and cider press, with the intention of making and selling fresh cider.

After a year in business, Rob Pearce, who held a full time job with General Electric, offered the business to his son Dick Pearce. Dick Pearce said yes, and has been running the Lakeside since he was a junior in High School, and taken it through its various transitions and expansions.

Said Pearce, “My father offered me the place to run. I decided I was up for the challenge, and I've been doing this ever since.” That's of course with a break while he served in the Army. After which he returned and continued to operate the farm with his mother Agnes, until the early 1970's when she passed away.

A true family business, Pearce's wife, children and grandchildren all work at the Farm. His two sons and daughter work closely with him, and some of the work, like operating the 120-ton cider press, is done predominantly by family.

As Dick and his mother Agnes focused on making and selling filtered, preserved cider - the business took off. As their cider business grew, so did the demands. In 1958, Pearce opened a small retail store on the premise. In 1961, they renovated an old carriage barn on the property, naming it the Lakeside Cider Mill & Farm store, the store's current location. They sold fresh vegetables and apple cider. Two years later they added pies, salads and sandwiches. In 1971 customer demand warranted the construction of an apple barn - to better serve their customers by offering a larger space for selling apples and cider.

Dick Pearce pictured with his sons Jeff (left) and Rich (right).

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In the early 1980's Dick began growing his own vegetables on the property, including corn, squash, pumpkins, beans, tomatoes and cucumbers. In response to the popularity of their home-baked pies and made-to-order sandwiches, in 1990 Pearce also started serving homemade country breakfasts. Their business did so well, by the late 1990's he added on a larger indoor dining area.

other plants in the spring. He's raising pigs in the back, some which end up as dinner at one of their pig roasts. In 1998 he got the idea to build a pavilion which people could rent for events. A great success, the pavilion is regularly rented for wedding receptions, reunions, and family parties.

They also host some of their own events including barn dances, big band dances, Polish dances, and chicken and pig roasts.

Donna Peck Today, the Lakeside serves breakfast, lunch and select dinner dishes on Friday and Saturdays (dinners from mid-June to end of August.)

A keen businessman, Pearce is retired now, but you wouldn't know it. He still works every day on the Farm. On any given day you might find him making cider, running deliveries or cooking up chicken or steak for one of their famous chicken roasts or for a special event.

The centerpiece of the business continues to be their fresh apple cider and apples, grown throughout the region, and sold for retail. Built in the late 1880's, Pearce continues to use the 120 ton screw driven press to make their fresh cider. Impressive in size and look, the press takes up much of the barn where it is housed.

Manually operated, the process for making cider with an old cider press is very labor intensive, commented Pearce.

History aside - a walk through the Lakeside Store tells the story of why this place is so popular with the locals. In addition to their cider, Lakeside Farms tops the charts in terms of fresh and local vegetables and products. The list is almost endless: fresh fruits and vegetables from local farmers and the Menands Farmer's Market, homemade pastries and pie including the

childhood favorite “whoopie pie”, local honey, Adirondack Maple Syrup, fresh mozzarella, cooking items, arts and craft items, and a vintage candy section.

They also carry a number of other locally-made food products including milk from Battenkill Valley Creamery, fresh eggs from Thomas' Poultry in Schuylerville, and meats and sausages from Oscar's Smokehouse in Warrensburg, NY. The success of Lakeside Farms is clearly due to Pearce's adaptability and willingness to try something new. As business changed so did Lakeside Farm.

Said Pearce,“You can never be complacent in business. Our business changed as times changed.” In the early 1970's, Lakeside Farm reduced their wholesale cider production when customer preference and regulations required increased pasteurization. Their cider is run through an ultraviolet machine which kills any “bad” bacteria. According to Pearce, to produce at the level needed for wholesale would have required a significant investment. So now they make enough to sell at their farm store and a few other locations.

Pearce also added on a greenhouse to the 25-acre property, where they grow and sell flowers and

Pearce still lives in the original farmhouse on the property - where he raised his family. Over the 50+ years of operation Pearce has built a new storefront, a greenhouse, pavilion and four outbuildings to house the cider mill, cider making equipment, and a large walk-in cooler, along with other amenities.

A visit to Lakeside Farms, a few miles west of Round Lake village (exit 11) on Round Lake Road (turns into Schauber Rd) is a must. Stop in any day during the summer and you're sure to find a parking lot full of cars and lots of customers milling around the veggie stand out front, checking out the newly-arrived apples in the apple bins, or inside enjoying a hearty meal.

Lakeside Farm operates seasonally, from midApril through December, so be sure to time your visit accordingly. For more information go to www.lakesidefarmscidermill.com or call 518-3998359. Open 7 days a week, 7:30 am - 6:00 pm.

Amy L. Stock is a freelance writer and environmental educator living and working in Saratoga Springs, NY. www.goinggreensaratoga.blogspot.com.

Lorraine and Dick Pearce

ecolocalliving.com 19

Local Economic Outlook...

It's going to the Dogs!

By Sarah Ellis l Contributing Writer

Photos by Heather Bohm-Tallman

that is happening we are doing something right.”

There is not much time for laziness at Lazy Dog judging from the hustle and bustle at their newest location.

They recently moved operations to an impressive 13,000 Square Foot facility. The structure, a fully renovated 1840's Post and Beam Barn, is located on Ford St in Ballston Spa, NY. This is a three fold increase in space from their previous expansion into 4,000 Square Feet in 2008. They are working out the kinks of a complicated move, but could not be happier with their decision. Keith said “I feel like we are taking part in preserving the local history by being here.” The renovation began at a time when condemning it was eminent and demolition looked like its future. Jim Dalpe, the building's owner, recycled every piece of material he could salvage from the existing structure. In the 1800s it housed a bag making facility and was home to the first modern day paper bag.

It's no secret that the Pet Industry is not suffering the current economic slump. But what does that mean for a local company in that very business? Success? Expansion? Philanthropy?

Turns out, a chance for all three…

There is no question that Amy and Keith Augustine, of “Lazy Dog Cookie Company” have always strived to make high quality, healthy dog treats and their updated products prove just that. Five years ago they changed recipes to a Wheat and Corn-Free base. Two years ago they

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made the Organic switch. Now they are leading the industry with an all natural healthy yogurt and carob coating that use dye from beets, cabbage and carrots. The end result is a treat that everyone can feel confident sharing with their dog. Undoubtedly, this is a huge reason for Amy and Keith's continued success in an industry inundated with bakers. They ended 2009 with a 29% increase in sales over 2008.

“As we grow, the company will continue to evolve and products will change,” Keith said. “If

The entire first floor is dedicated to baking, decorating, boxing, packing and shipping - all the grunt work of a bakery. Upstairs is what sold the move for the Augustines and when you walk up the stairs you get it. It screams possibility Lazy Dog has always donated and sponsored for other events, but this added space gives them the opportunity to organize and host their own philanthropic events. Their family of four adopted dogs, Hazel (Sausage), Hoagie (Steuben), Lucy (Juicy Lucy) and Jimmy (Meatball) keep their passion for rescue strong.

“So many dogs need homes, so many groups need help. It all should go hand in hand. Our hearts are in it for the animals. We love being in

Amy and Keith Augustine a business that surrounds us with them. How could we not want to do all we can for them?”

Amy said. “It just makes sense.” They hope to throw events every 2 months of varying sizes and rotate the beneficiaries. “Maybe one or two big ones each year,” Keith added. Lazy Dog has designed the second floor to have a “Retail Space” that will be open during functions to assist in the fundraising. They are considering this idea for other local companies, as well.

Keith explained, “The idea is for sale proceeds to go to benefit the organizations. The store will not be a year round thing. We'll let the full-time retailers take care of that side.” Lazy Dog Cookies can be found at many local, family owned businesses including Dawgdom, Benson's Pet Centers, Four Seasons Health Food Store, Pampered Pooch and Putnam Market.

delicious food! Costumes are optional, but you'll regret leaving them home when you see some of the Prize Baskets for Best Costume, Look Alikes, and more! Heather Bohm-Tallman Photography will be there taking shots in the well known “HBT Doggie Booth,” where dogs and people can cut loose and show their silly side. Proceeds will go to Mohawk & Hudson River Humane Society, where their adoptee, Juicy Lucy, came from. “We want people to appreciate what a great experience adoption can be. Mohawk Hudson was wonderful. Lucy was a bit of a challenge at first, but she is amazing now. I wish people could understand you have to give them a chance. Don't give up on them so fast.

Sometimes it just takes time,” Amy said. The event will be $10 per person.

Details on the event will be available soon at Their first event is planned for October 28th at www.mohawkhumanesociety.org 6:30 with a fitting Halloween Theme. It is sure Sara Ellis is the owner of Dawgdom, where dogs rule! to be a success with live music and 50 South's Dawgdom is located at 441A Broadway, in Saratoga Springs

ecolocalliving.com 21

Altamont Vineyard Winery

Carrying on the Old World Tradition Story and photos by David Delozier

Think of wine growing regions, and the great vineyards of France and Italy come to mind.

Here in the US, California is a favorite viniculture region, producing the spicy Zinfandels and Syrah, and buttery Chardonnays.

Closer to home, New York's Finger Lakes, Hudson Valley and Long Island regions are gaining in popularity and reputation. Once you get north of Catskill, however, the colder climate of the north pretty much means that growing grapes is a foolish proposition. Defying the odds, the DiCresenzo family of Altamont is proving the naysayers wrong, by not only growing grapes at their 1000 foot elevation vineyard, but by producing some very good wine as well!

It all started back in 1981 when the previous owner of the hillside property, Larry Grossi, decided to retire from his career as a diesel mechanic. Like many first generation Italian immigrants, Grossi felt the call to return to the

Mike and Lou DiCresenzo 22 ecolocalliving.com

land and rekindle his family tradition of wine making back in the old country. Grossi first became inspired when he stumbled upon the unique property, its sun-drenched slopes and views of the Helderberg Escarpment reminding him of landscape of his youth, growing up in the Lazio province of Italy (this region has a vinicultural history that dates back to the tales of Homer's Odyssey…referred to in the sirens' song episode).

In defiance of the “experts,” Grossi began cultivating the grape vines on the property in 1981. He began experimenting with different types of grapes, to see which varieties might handle the climate and topography. Located near the crest of a ridge and blessed with a southern facing downhill slope, the land began to yield some surprising results. Hybrid grape varieties that were developed by the University of Minnesota and Cornell University were able to survive the bitter cold winters. The high

elevation shielded the vines from the killing frosts that engulfed the valley below.

Grossi was inspired by the results, and Larry's Vineyard and Farm Winery was born. Grossi began making a name in New York wine circles, not only for growing grapes in an area not know for viniculture, but also because his wine tasted good! Those who stumbled upon the hidden gem in the shadow of the Helderbergs were treated to the fine wines that Grossi hand crafted, and charmed by his grace and demeanor. Grossi would proudly show off his awards, proving that his little piece of paradise could indeed produce quality wine.

Unfortunately, just as he was building a following, Grossi succumbed to lung cancer and died in 2001.

A few years later, Lou DiCresenzo came upon the property in his search for his own piece of land to spend his days in retirement from the construction trade. The grape vines had called him there, says DiCresenzo. “I had heard about the property 'through the grapevine' and had to check it out,” he recalled. The vineyard had been idle since Grossi's passing, and had grown wild and wooly. Undaunted by the state of the vines, DiCresenzo saw the potential; like Grossi before him, the pull of the old world traditions were calling him back home to the land. The property was not even listed for sale, but Decresenzo was determined to acquire it. The Grossi family was reluctant to give up their father's pride and joy, but when they met DiCresenzo, they saw in this man the spirit of their father…the same broken English; the same cigarette smoking behavior; the same Italian heritage - and, with a unique twist of fate: DiCresenzo had also originated from the Lazio province of Italy. What would be the chance of two native sons of Lazio ending up on the same property, called to do the same thing wine making? Was it mere coincidence? No, it was serendipity - a destiny manifest! For the Grossi family, it became clear - this was the guy who would carry on the legacy of what their father had started.

After some long negotiations, the Grossi family finally sold the property to the DiCresenzo family.

There is no doubt that the spirit of Larry Grossi is watching over this land. DiCresenzo mentioned that he often talks to Larry when working in the vineyard. “Every once in awhile, I get the feeling of a presence of someone next to me,” he explained. “One day I was trying to put an attachment onto the tractor; I tried and I tried, but I just couldn't do it. I was getting mad, because I couldn't get the thing onto the tractor, so suddenly I turned around and I said

'Hey, instead of you just standing around here watching me, why don't you get your hands dirty again and give me a hand with this?' I stepped aside, smoked a half of a cigarette, threw the cigarette down and went to push the thing in, and then…Fwump! The thing went right in,” DiCresenzo exclaimed with a smile.

Now called The Altamont Vineyard Winery, Lou DiCresenzo is joined by his son Mike and partner Deborah Crawford, who handles all the legal and compliance issues. Old world ways, new world wines is how they describe their product. The 'old world ways' refers to their growing all the grapes on site, with nothing brought in from elsewhere, and the dedication and passion to producing the best grapes that this land can produce. 'New world wines' refers to the application of hybrid technologies to producing grapes that can thrive in this climate.

The vineyard currently has 15 acres in active cultivation. There are 23 different grape varieties in the vineyard, which all require a different kind of care. The wines produced from such a diverse vineyard are exciting and different. There is a white wine resembling a Riesling called Edelweiss, which Grossi also made and is still very popular; St. Pepin, a coldhearty grape variety developed at the University of Minnesota by Elmer Swenson; a Cabernetstyle red called Passione; a blend of DeChaunac and St. Croix; a Burgundy-style red called Leon Millot; plus two sweet wines, Elefante and Spider's Rose; two types of Cayuga White, one of which is oak aged, and Patience, a blend of white wine grapes featuring citrus and herbaceous tones. In a good year, they typically produce 3000-4000 gallons of juice that will become wine. With this summer's long stretch of hot and dry weather, they expect 2010 to be an exceptional vintage.

At the prime age of 32 years old, Mike could be working in a much more lucrative career in the business world, and bringing in a lot more money. Choosing farming, with its weather inconsistencies, battles with insects, and long days with out immediate financial gratification, is risky, and some would even say, crazy. But like his father, the call to work the land, to produce something, is strong. “When I was a kid, I always had crazy ideas,” said Mike. He continued, “I was always dreaming, and knowing deep down that I that I wanted to create a product. And what better product to create than wine? How many 28 year olds (his age when they began the project) get an opportunity to take the bull by the horns and ride it?” he exclaimed.

The father-and-son team does all the day to day chores of the vineyard. It takes a certain type of person to take on the challenges of producing wine. Despite the romance of being a vintner, often times, the work is gritty, dirty and repetitive. “Only about one half of one percent of the population have the gut to do this,” said Mike. “You've got to do the work everyday that needs to get done. You've got to get outside and

do it out there (pointing to the vineyard); you've got to do it in the winery - if it takes two hours to clean something before and two hours after, you gotta do it, because if you don't do it then everything gets backed up,” he explained.

“You've got to get up every day and do the same thing again and again; plus having to worry if the hails might be coming, or if the rains will be plentiful at the right time, and the days will be bright and sunny between the rains.

It's the unabated determination to tend the vines every day, knowing that if we keep at it, and with a good amount of luck, then it will all be worth it in the end - when the customer tastes our wine and smiles. That is our reward for all the hard work.”

At the end of the day, Altamont Vineyard Winery is really all about family, and the faith that the land can provide for those who work it and care for it. It's about the heritage of the past, keeping traditions alive, and passing the torch to the next generation. And of course, carrying on the Italian-American tradition of independence - getting up, putting in the work, and earning it…everyday!

to 5 pm or by appointment. You may also find them at area Farmers Markets: Saturdays at the Capital District Farmers Market in Menands and on Hamburg Street in Rotterdam, and Union Street in Schenectady. Tues and Thurs at the Altamont Train station from 3-6pm, and the Empire State Plaza on Wednesday mornings 10-2, and Wednesday nights 4-7 at the Canal Street Market on Rt 20 in Duanesburg, where the wines are paired with the dinner that is served for the farmers. Also available at select retailers in the Capital Region. If you can't find it at your favorite wine store, ask them to carry it.

The Altamont Vineyard Winery is located at 3001 Furbeck Road near the hamlet Altamont, in Albany County. Call 355-8100 for information and directions. They are open for wine tastings on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays noon ecolocalliving.com 23

Fallon Wellness Center

A New Prescription for Health

By Tracy Frisch l Contributing Writer

As soon as you walk into Fallon Wellness Center, you know it's not your average pharmacy.

Instead of the chain store aisles of candy, backto-school items, and over-the-counter remedies promising symptom relief for hemorrhoids and post-nasal drip, the room is filled with nutritional supplements, enzymes, and other natural-type products. Off to the side, a glass window allows a view into the sterile compounding room, where pharmacists actually fabricate medicines, filling capsules and preparing other prescriptions to order for humans and pets.

These obvious differences reflect the philosophical divide between this Latham business and conventional drug stores. But just looking, you miss an even deeper and more radical break with the medical status quo.

Mike Lenz and Peter Fallon 24 ecolocalliving.com

Photos by David DeLozier

Pharmacist and co-owner Peter Fallon has been introducing lay people and health practitioners to functional medicine, with formal consultations to help people overcome chronic and seemingly intractable conditions.

Functional medicine treats the body and mind as an integrated whole. It looks for core imbalances and underlying deficits in the body's functioning and guides people in taking action to correct them. If nutrients or hormone are lacking, they must be replaced.

Where harm comes from lifestyle choices - from smoking to stress, he works with clients to help them eliminate destructive patterns. He might recommend modalities like yoga, meditation, acupuncture, or psychotherapy or even simple practices like chewing one's food and drinking enough water.

Peter draws a clear distinction between what Fallon Wellness offers and the advice you might get in a health food store to take such and such supplement for the liver, for instance. It's not about taking a pill to get rid of a malady, he explains. "We're trying to move them away from that mentality."

"In the future we're looking for you to eat right, poop right, sleep right, have good relationships, and exercise." Since the goal is to bring patients back to normality, this approach has "a built-in obsolescence," he says.

HISTORY OF A CHANGING FAMILY BUSINESS Over the past four and a half decades, the Fallons' willingness, time and time again, to carve out their own special niche in response to challenging market conditions has made for a remarkably resilient business.

From the early 1950s, Peter's father and uncle owned the Troy Drug Company, "a huge, extremely high-volume" business. But by the 70s, chain pharmacies were squeezing out privately owned drug stores. In 1974, under intense pressure, the Fallons sold out to Rite Aid. The week of their buy-out, several other substantial independent pharmacies also closed their doors in Troy, Peter said.

A couple years later Peter's dad opened the first Fallon Pharmacy inside the Latham Medical Group. A small clinical pharmacy in a medical building couldn't have been more different than his earlier high-volume enterprise.

In 1985 Peter returned to the area to purchase the business from his father, who was ready to retire. (He admits he almost ended up in oceanography but pharmacy school was "the path of least resistance.") Peter had been managing three pharmacies in California and was getting discouraged about his profession.

"Nobody was getting better." Take diabetes.

"They were just controlling blood sugar with drugs," he says. He took over the family business at a time when health insurance plans were imposing new restrictions on payments. So from the beginning, both because of his personal inclinations and the tightening market environment, he "gravitated to natural medicine and compounding."

Within a few years he had a contract to run Bellevue Hospital's pharmacy and then around 1993 he opened up a third pharmacy in a Clifton Park medical building. Eventually Bellevue bought him out, keeping on a Fallon employee to manage its pharmacy. Peter also sold his Latham Medical prescription business to Hannaford.

At the Clifton Park store, Peter built in a portable compounding room to increase the business's focus on this rather unique service.

When he made pharmacist George Doherty his partner, he eliminated his only serious competition. Doherty had developed a thriving compounding business at an unlikely venue, a local branch of the Eckerd chain. After he joined Fallon, most of his customers followed him.

In 2002 for greater space and a more central location, Fallon moved to its present site - a Bavarian-style building that formerly housed a high adventure ski shop -- on Troy Schenectady Road a few miles west of the Northway.

The most recent development came this summer when Fallon Wellness entered a partnership with pharmacist Mike Lenz of Menges & Curtis drug store in Saratoga Springs and so gained another outpost. Mike initiated the business relationship because he wanted to "get out of the rat race" of selling drugs, Peter told me. He was already doing some compounding, and now is attending courses in functional medicine.

The community in and around Saratoga has embraced the new business arrangement.

Within two months of joining with Fallon, Menges' sales of compounded medicines doubled, while nutriceutical sales quadrupled.

THE COMPOUNDING PHARMACY NICHE Since moving to its present Latham location, Fallon Wellness has experienced about 25 percent growth annually making it a much larger enterprise than it seems.

Fallon's compounding service lies at the heart of this impressive growth. (Compounding is a billion dollar sector nationwide.) While word of mouth brings in new customers, Peter says strategic marketing accounts most of the growth. Promotion extends throughout New York and into the neighboring states to the east, and for two years Fallon has even employed a field rep to call on particular physicians and veterinarians.

Targeted outreach to retina specialists is an example of how Fallon has built up its medical clientele. The cancer drug Avastin reduces angiogenesis, the growth of new blood vessels, which in this case feed tumors. The same drug has become the standard of practice for wet macular degeneration, a disease in which a similar proliferation of new blood supplies impedes vision. But the cancer drug maker does not serve these eye patients. Fallon buys the active ingredient from the manufacturer and compounds the drug for delivery to the eye.

Avastin is an example of the value of compounding. Drugs not available from the factory in a form or dosage required may be compounded. In another scenario, a pharmaceutical corporation stops making a consumer-ready product because it doesn't generate sky-high profits, despite a continuing demand for the product. If the active ingredient

is still made, pharmacies can compound it for patient use.

Having had my thyroid gland removed due to a suspected malignancy, my personal situation led me to Fallon's compounding pharmacy for a recently prescribed second form of thyroid hormone (T3). Almost all thyroid deficient patients only take a single form of thyroid, levothyroxine (T4, often known by the brand name Synthroid). As my health care practitioner adjusts my dosage, Fallon makes up T3 capsules in whatever strength ordered.

Peter clarified that a compounding pharmacy would be violating patent laws by making a drug in the same dosage as is factory-produced.

However, if a patient is allergic to fillers in a commercial drug product, such a pharmacy can fill a prescription for the drug compounded with non-allergenic ingredients.

Fallon was one of the first 50 compounding pharmacies in the U.S. to get accredited by a new independent non-governmental board called the Pharmacy Compounding Accreditation Board. The process is designed to ensure patient safety.

Accredited pharmacies have to institute various policies and procedures to meet quality requirements and they are inspected for compliance. They also must provide continuing staff education. Peter estimates it costs his business $100,000 a year to maintain accreditation. Peter predicts that liability issues will eventually force all pharmacies that do any compounding to become accredited.

Fallon is accredited for making the highest-risk injectables. Whether they go in an IV, the bladder, or the eye, these must be sterile.

Precautions guarantee manufacturing-quality purity. Employees wear a "bunny suit," the room is precisely temperature-controlled, and work surfaces are swabbed and samples incubated to detect any pathogens. Fallon also sends out products for independent testing.

Big Pharma considers compounding a threat to their monopoly control, and according to Peter, "They have FDA's ear." Despite that industry's complaints, compounding pharmacies have a much better safety record than pharmaceutical factories, he said.

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PARADIGM SHIFT TO FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE Peter defines functional medicine as "personalized, natural medicine for health and wellness." In his consultations he uses a 17page questionnaire to gather information on all the core functional systems. Going back to birth or even in utero, it covers every aspect of a person's health status and history from diet to psychosocial dimensions. "We also look for antecedents, like genetics," he says.

Peter shared an example from the previous day.

He had consulted with a woman who felt that she had been overmedicated with prescription drugs for many years. It started when she had a baby and ended up getting prescribed drugs to treat post partum depression. A drop in hormone levels following childbirth can precipitate this form of depression. Peter suggested temporary hormonal replacement with bio-identical hormones as a possible remedy for her condition.

Recalling the numerous medications taken by this client, Peter remarked that a lot of prescription drugs cause side effects, which in turn create a need for additional drugs. He also noted that pharmacy schools are teaching students about the importance of minimizing the numbers of drugs a given patient receives, due to the epidemic of drug-induced illnesses and harmful interactions between drugs.

Whereas modern medicine treats symptoms piecemeal, "the problem has to be with imbalances of the core functional systems."

Thus, the functional medicine practitioner looks at how different bodily systems are working and what insults could affect their functions.

However, if an organ has been damaged or removed or a person has cancer, bringing these systems back to homeostasis becomes much more difficult. • The detox and metabolic system: Living near a toxic waste dump, being exposed to lead paint 26 ecolocalliving.com

from an old house, or having mercury dental fillings could overwhelm your body's detox mechanisms with heavy metals or other toxic substances. Hepatitis C or a kidney disorder would compromise organs involved in detoxification. • The neuro-endocrine-immunological system encompasses the nervous system, hormonal system, and immune functions. Few of us are aware that the gut and liver produce more neurotransmitters than our brains do. • The digestive and absorption system extends from the mouth to the anus. "You get the most bang for your buck when you correct it," Peter contends.

He likens the intestinal tract to skin, but it's a barrier inside your body rather than to the world outside. As with skin, an intact gut serves as a protective barrier. Taking lots of antibiotics, not being breastfed, or having an infection will create problems with the structural integrity of the digestive tract.

In Peter's experience, people with lupus, arthritis, or other autoimmune disorders tend also to have a digestive problem such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Crohn's disease, or an ulcer. He attributes this to leaky gut, or in scientific lingo "permeable membrane."

Other functional systems include structural, comprising the skeleton, muscles, and skin, psycho-spiritual, inflammatory, and redox, which pertains to how energy is utilized at the cellular level.

Grounded in biology and biochemistry, functional medicine has an objective basis.

"There are lab tests for measuring all of this," says Peter, giving examples like blood chemistry analysis at the cellular level and extrapolating the presence of certain bacteria by detection of their toxic byproducts. But conventional physicians aren't familiar with many of these assessment methods, and insurance often doesn't pay for them.

Peter does work with doctors and he says he's gotten "a pretty positive name in the area." A lot of his clients are medical practitioners of all types. For instance, an immunologist came to him for his wife's immune disorder.

In treating patients, he says physicians have to stay within the confines of standard medical practice. But "when it comes to their own families," they are willing to look beyond to what's effective.

In contrast to his early experience as a pharmacist in California, Peter is excited by the success he finds with functional medicine.

"Ninety percent of the patients will come back the following month feeling 50 percent better."

He also perceives a shift away from western medicine in progress, even among mainstream medical practitioners. "When I go to a functional medicine conference, I see one or two hundred new physicians learning it at a crack," he says.

Despite the boom in interest, there's something besides the medical-industrial-pharmaceuticalinsurance establishment that's blocking acceptance of functional medicine. Since this approach involves the mind and body and favors the client's active participation, sometimes you have to start with "baby steps."

Peter has learned the necessity of meeting the person where he or she is. For instance, if someone isn't sleeping and can't get out of bed, he'll look for the simplest intervention that can start the ball rolling toward the desired changes.

Peter's pharmacist daughter, Erika Fallon, shares her father's excitement about functional medicine. Long-term she will be part of the company project to expand regionally through partnerships with other independent pharmacies.

FIND OUT MORE AT PUBLIC LECTURES At present she is taking over educational lecturing for the Wellness Center. Along with functional medicine physicians, she will be presenting a community lecture series in Saratoga Springs. The first lecture takes place on October 13 at 7 PM. These informational programs for the public and practitioners will be held at Barre Strength Studio, 468 Broadway, second floor. Contact 518/583-0361 or ccrane@cranegroup.com or visit www.barrestrengthny.com.

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Turn Over a New Leaf...

Visit the Colors of Washington County

By Christine Hoffer Photos by Deborah Austin

The state to the east of Washington County, NY and the NY County to our North are well known as destinations during fall foliage, but Washington County - not so much. Join me as I take you on a vibrant ride through Washington County, NY. I promise you will be glad you did.

Your experience in Washington County will be laced with agriculture, recreation and relaxation. Washington County colors are highlighted with rich history, beautiful waterways and well maintained roads just waiting for your arrival by vehicle or cycle. You may choose to base your foliage frolic through Washington County on crossing our five covered bridges, casting a line and catching a fish whose colors rival the trees reflected in the water it calls home, or taking home natures colorful bounty of the harvest.

Washington County is an agricultural based community with rolling hills growing sweet corn, wheat, alfalfa and soy beans; cows, alpacas, llamas and farm animals grazing; orchards hanging with sweet, juicy apples, pears, peaches and plums; bushes with bright red raspberries; fields with pumpkins and squash and colorful mums. Stop at a Farmers' Market, roadside stand or U-pick for a wholesome and delicious treat. Washington County is home to more artisan and farmstead cheese makers than any other location in the North East.

Have a boat? Cruise along the Champlain Canal stopping in Fort Edward, Fort Ann and Whitehall before entering Lake Champlain. Hike one of the trails that are located in Fort Ann, Dresden and Putnam - rewarding your ascent with a breathtaking view of Lake George. The Battenkill State Forest hike rewards you with views of the Battenkill Valley and our neighbor to the east. Washington County parks at Huletts Landing and Lake Lauderdale are excellent destinations offering affordable family fun destinations. Both parks feature pavilions, barbeque pits, walk in coolers that can be rented for weddings, corporate outings or gathering. Huletts Landing is located off Route 6B in the Town of Dresden on Lake George. Lake Lauderdale is off Route 22 in the Town of Jackson.

Washington Counties colorful past is preserved in our towns and villages - follow the same route as Colonel Baum from Hudson Falls to Wallomsac, visit a cemetery with 117 resting Revolutionary War Soldiers, the last Civil War Enlistment Center, birthplace of the United States Navy, Heart of the U.S. Rangers, Susan B. Anthony's home, Underground Railroad, or a Tiffany Church.

Washington County hills are alive - not only with natures beasts, but with the sounds of award winning theater, music and dance. As day turns into night reward yourself with a magical performance. Our centers are located in an old church - Fort Salem Theater, Opera House - Hubbard Hall, along the canal - The Bridge Theater or in a Barn - The Little Theater on the Farm. Take a seat and allow our performing arts centers to enchant you as much as the day time colors of our turning trees.

Each Village and Hamlet has its own story to tell - don't miss the unique architecture backdrop of the turning leaves. Queen Anne, Gothic, East Lake, Colonial and Bungalow styles all call Washington County home. Fall Festivals, Classic Car Shows and family fun events can be found most weekends in Washington County. Come for a visit, You will be glad you did!

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 11 Salem Harvest Festival 10AM - 9PM Salem Art Works - Carey Lane Salem, NY In conjuction with the Washington County Cheese Tour, the Salem Area Chamber of Commerce is hosting the third annual Harvest Fest. Lunch - Foods from local vendors & civic organizations 10 am -5:30 pm Dinner & Barn Dance - Local Farm to Fork dinner 6:00 - 9:00 pm $20 a ticket; under 10 yrs $6.00 Music by Al & Kathy Bain, Family fun petting zoo, bouncy house, face painting & fun for all. Silent Auction to benefit local families in need.3rd annual Salem HarvestFest. www.salemnychamber.com

SATURDAY & SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 11-12 Washington County's "The Cheese Tour" 10AM - 4PM Washington County, NY Annual drive-yourself tour of local cheesemakers' facilities throughout Washington County. Call us at 518746-2560 or www.washingtoncountycheese.org

SATURDAY & SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 25-26 Southern Adirondack Fiber Festival 10AM - 5PM Washington County Fairgrounds, Rte. 29, Greenwich, NY Info at 518-692-2464 or markwashfair@aol.com Cost: Adults $5; Under 14 Free; Free Parking

SATURDAY OCTOBER 2 2nd Annual Cambridge Valley Apple Festival Village of Cambridge, NY Apple pie bake-off, pie-eating contest, children's events and music. Additional information can be found at www.cambridgenychamber.com

SUNDAY OCTOBER 31 Greenwich Halloween Parade 1PM Main St., Greenwich, NY Parade, sponsored by the Greenwich Chamber of Commerce, forms at 1pm at 10 Main St., ends at 184 Main St. for judging. Cost: FREE. Call (518) 692-7979 or visit www.greenwichchamber.org/events.asp for more information.

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2ND ANNUAL

Southern Adirondack Fiber Festival The second annual Southern Adirondack Fiber Festival will be held at the Washington County Fairgrounds on September 25 and 26, 2010. More than 120 regional fiber vendors from New York and New England will be participating. Festival Hours are 10am-5pm on both Saturday and Sunday.

Washington County Fair and local artisans determined a need for a fiber festival in the Southern Adirondack region that would feature small, independent fiber artisans. The 2009 event proved to be well attended and successful. Vendors have been invited to participate based on the quality of their fiber and fiber related products. Every aspect of fiber will be represented from fleece to finished goods. In addition, there will be handcrafted spinning wheels, drop spindles, knitting needles, soaps, baskets, and bags. A special effort has been made to attract the roving and yarns of artisan hand dyers in a wide range of beautiful and unique colorways. This year we have a new event, Battenkill Fibers Carding and Spinning Mill is sponsoring the 2010 Wool Show and Sale.

Fleece will be on display, judged for quality, and available for sale. In addition Battenkill Fibers Carding and Spinning Mill will be available to pick up and drop off fleece for processing. Please contact the Fair if you would like to enter the 2010 Wool Show and Sale.

Supplementing the offerings of the farm based fiber producers will be booths from several local yarn stores including Common Thread of Saratoga and Yarn Angel of Glens Falls. These shops will provide patterns, books, and tools in addition to some of their own local fibers.

Demonstrations include sheep shearing, weaving, felting, spinning, Kool-Aid dyeing, and Rug Hooking. Fiber animals including a variety of sheep breeds, alpaca, llama, cashmere goats and angora rabbits will be exhibited by their owners. Musical entertainment, Puddles the Clown, and an assortment of Festival foods will round out the day.

The Washington County Fairgrounds are located on Route 29 in Greenwich, New York. Vendors will be located indoors so weather should not deter people from enjoying the festival. Admission is $5 for Adults, children under 14 are free. There is lots of free parking. For the safety of the animals, vendors, and festival participants, we ask that you leave your pets at home. $1.00 off coupons are available at Common Thread in Saratoga, Trumpet Hill in Colonie, Beau-Knits in Cohoes, Yarn Angel in Glens Falls, The Washington County Fair Office and online at www.washingtoncountyfair.com, where you can also find a complete vendor list, directions and other additional information.

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Rensselaer County - Did You Know?

Many historical figures called Rensselaer County home. Educator Emma Willard, Financier Russell Sage, and others have all left lasting academic and philanthropic legacies. Samuel B. Wilson, known as "Uncle Sam" is buried at Troy's beautiful Oakwood Cemetery and is memorialized with a 15-foot high aluminum statue in downtown Troy. In 1864, Kate Mullany and Ester Keegan established the nation's first female labor union, "The Collar Laundry." Visitors can still view Ms. Mullany's house, which is a historical landmark.

The patriotic "Yankee Doodle," a wartime marching song, is said to have been composed at the Van Rensselaer Manor House, Fort Crailo, in the City of Rensselaer, where today a museum commemorates the legend.

The American classic, "Twas the Night Before Christmas," was penned in 1823 by Clement Clarke Moore and published in the Troy Sentinel. A plaque located on historic River Street in the antiques district, marks the site of the former newspaper building.

It was in the Village of Hoosick Falls that an art collector named Louis Caldor discovered an appealing display of primitive and colorful art at the local drugstore. The artist was an untrained woman in her 70s. Since then, Grandma Moses' works have gone on to immortalize the everyday rural life of Rensselaer County and are sought-after by art collectors.

There are more than 55 waterfalls in Rensselaer County, adding to the beauty of the area and its quality of life. Historically, these waterfalls powered everything from grist mills to iron works, providing a natural source of energy that assisted the region in becoming am important leader in the industrial revolution. Today, the waterfalls boost the area's attraction for tourists.

Rensselaer County has more authentic Tiffany brand windows per square mile than anywhere else. Some of the finest examples are installed at St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Troy, built in 1826 and remodeled by the Tiffany Glass and Decoration Co. in the 1890s. The church's windows attract enthusiasts from all over the globe. Pictured right is The Tiffany Window Dome in The Sage College Bush Memorial Building in downtown Troy - courtesy of Renssealer County Chamber of Commerce.

UPCOMING EVENTS EVERY SATURDAY Troy Waterfron Farmers Market 9AM -1PM Riverfront Park, Front Street,Troy, through the last weekend in October before we go in for the winter. Join them every Saturday, where more than 50 local farmers, specialty foods producers, bakers and artisans provide the Capital Region's freshest local meats, eggs, fruits and vegetables, naturally raised meat and poultry, artisan breads, cheeses, baked goods, New York State wine, handmade soaps, pottery, crafts and much more! When you shop at the market you are buying directly from the producer, so you know it will be fresh and of the highest quality. Many of their producers foods are certified organic, pesticide free and naturally raised. Plus, when you shop at the market your dollars contribute directly to our local economy! Local community groups, kids events and music at every market. www.troymarket.org.

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SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 12, 2010 Uncle Sam Parade - 1PM

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2010 Downtown Troy's Troy Night Out

The parade starts at 1pm, RAIN or shine. The parade will step off from 125th Street and Fifth Avenue and ends at 106th street. The parade will feature a march from local schools, organizations and some military outfits.

Immediately following the parade a celebration at the Knickerbacker Park on 103rd Street and 8th Avenue will feature fun and entertainment for the family (rides for kids, chicken barbaque, our Elvis impersonator - Don Romines, and the Duanesburg sky divers). Fireworks ShowFollowing the Uncle Sam Celebration a fireworks show will be displayed at the Knickerbacker Park. Fireworks provided

by Alonzo's Fireworks. For more information regarding the parade and celebration conact John Rustin, President of Uncle Sam Birthday Parade, at (518) 235-0615 or visit www.troyny.gov/visittroy/unclesamparade.html.

The monthly arts and cultural event that takes place the last Friday of EVERY month in downtown Troy from 5-9 PM. The event regularly draws over 1,000 people onto the streets of Troy, and attendees are able to enjoy over 30 art events, 15 music venues, and over 20 fine restaurants as well as unique boutiques of all varieties. Free parking is available on-street and in several city garages. www.troynightout.org.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2010 Star Watch at Grafton Lakes State Park

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2010 Fall Outdoor Fun Day

7:30pm at Grafton Lakes State Park Main Lot. Enjoy a guided tour of the night sky with Albany Area Astronomers Association. Telescopes provided. Rain date: Saturday, 9/18. For additional information, please call 518) 279-1155 or visit www.nysparks.com/parks.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2010 New England Muster Association Fireman’s Competition Stephentown Fire Hall, Grange Road, Stephentown.

Hosted by the Stephentown Volunteer Fire Department.

Water Polo competition at 6pm Saturday night. Sunday, a Parade starts at 11am followed by the Historical Society Chicken BBQ from Noon-2pm. The NEMA Fireman’s Muster Competition resumes at 1pm. All events are at the Stephentown Fire Hall. Giffy’s BBQ ($10, advance tickets recommended. You can purchase tickets for the BBQ from the Stephentown Historical Society, Madden's Garage, Stephentown Library and the Berry Patch Farm.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2010 International Festival Ethnic Food Festival,11am-7pm, Troy's Little Itay Market Place, (on Hill Street, between Washington Street and Liberty Street). Entertainment, Childrens' events and cultural events. Rain or Shine! www.littleitalytroy.org.

The day’s events include the Barge Chaser Canoe and Kayak Race, a treasure hunt, bike ride and kayak demo, and much more. Enjoy this beautiful time of year in the outdoors by adventuring in Grafton Lakes State Park for the day. For outdoor enthusiasts and families, the park is offering a host of activities from 11am-2pm. A family nature journaling program, kayak demos provided by Battenkill Valley Outdoors, and a treasure hunt using map and compass will be fun for the whole family. Volunteers from the Friends of Grafton Lakes State Park will also lead hikes and a mountain bike ride. Live music and light refreshments will be available.

For additional information, please call Liz at 279-1155. www.nysparks.com/parks

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2010 Troy Chowderfest Downtown Troy. Enjoy the chowder competition amongst Troy's restaurants.

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R&G Cheese

Big Cheese in a Small Town

By Stacey Morris l Contributing Writer

Photos by David Delozier

Sean O'Conner In the world of cheese making, Sean O’Connor is relatively new to the game. He may not have decades of experience (yet) to his name, but the Troy resident makes up for it in his love of the process.

O’Connor spent seven years working at various creameries throughout the region before opening R&G Cheese, his own cheese-making operation in the Harmony House complex on Remsen Street last year.

In a short time, his distribution has skyrocketed from Remsen Street and local farmers markets to gourmet shops in New York City and a recent nod of approval on the Food Network.

In September, O’Connor’s Eclipse, his signature ash-ripened goat cheese was among the small 40 ecolocalliving.com

selection of New York state cheeses to be served at the U.S. Open festivities in Queens.

“They tried a number of Hudson Valley area cheeses and really liked Eclipse,” he said.

“Eclipse was also featured on The Food Network’s “Alex’s Day Off,” which was a wonderful surprise.” In the episode, chef Alex Guaranaschelli visited a Brooklyn gourmet shop, zeroed in on an ashy pyramid of Eclipse, and then went home to make a meal out of it.

O’Connor credits Pampered Cow Distributors in Ghent for R&G’s growing statewide reputation.

It was while the Troy native was living in California several years ago that he decided he wanted a food-related career. O’Connor went to culinary school and later moved back east with

wife Aimee and sons Ryan, 8 and Gavin, 5.

“I always wanted to work in the food world, but I knew it wouldn’t be in restaurants,” he recalled. “When I said to my wife I might want to try cheese-making, almost immediately, I noticed an ad in the paper for a cheese-making assistant at the Chatham Sheepherding Company.”

It was at the Chatham Sheepherding Company where O’Connor perfected the art of making chevres and soft-ripened cheeses before moving on to other area companies, including Cappiello, where he became versed in the mozzarellamaking process.

When the time felt right to open his own creamery, O’Connor said he chose downtown Cohoes because of the city’s unmistakable upand-coming vibe.

“I always pictured myself in a downtown location. I’m not a farmer, so it didn’t make sense to be making cheese somewhere on a farm; I wanted a cheese shop where I made cheese on site,” he said. “What I’m doing now is pretty much what I pictured myself doing… and I think it’s neat to be doing it in Cohoes, which is revitalizing and attracting small business people like myself.”

In 2009, O’Connor officially opened for business, naming the creamery after sons Ryan and Gavin.

O’Connor said that in formulating the layout of his creamery, he took a page from Chatham Sheepherding and put in a plate glass window near his work station so patrons of the nearby tapas bar at Harmony House Marketplace can watch the process.

Aside from Eclipse, R&G also makes 14 types of cheese: a variety of other goat cheeses (including the popular maple-chipotle); Mozzarellas (fresh, smoked, and braided with sun-dried tomatoes); Brie; Ricotta; Greek yogurt; and a soon-to-be-released line of aged cheeses.

“For our cow’s milk cheeses we made a conscious decision to not explore cheddar, because a lot of people already do it,” said O’Connor. “My expertise lies in mozzarella and goat cheeses.”

One of R&G’s newer cheeses is Trojan Blue, a blue Italian table cheese that he says has a Provolone-like taste and isn’t crumbly like traditional blue cheese.

“It’s the kind of cheese you slice and enjoy with a glass of wine,” O’Connor explained.

R&G gets its milk from two Ballston Spa farms:

O’Connor said one goal has always been to keep his prices competitive. For cheese he sells through Harmony House and at Farmers Markets, prices begin at $4.50 for a four-ounce pyramid and $4.50 for an 8-ounce ball of fresh mozzarella. Prices vary at gourmet shops.

R&G Cheese is available at Honest Weight Food Coop, 484 Central Ave. in Albany and at the following farmers markets: Delmar; Colonie Crossings; Kinderhook; Great Barrington, Mass.; Menands; and Schenectady. O’Connor credits the help of his mother, Lynne Dallas, who is often found at the area markets working the R&G booth, for his creamery being such a farflung presence at farmers markets in the Capital District.

For information on purchasing R&G cheese retail or to order cheese platters, call Harmony House at (518) 238-2232. For wholesale orders and information e-mail Sean O’Connor at rgcheese@hotmail.com.

Lady Lilac Goat Farm and cow’s milk from Willow Marsh Farm.

He said that so far, the Eclipse ash-ripened cheese is the most popular of R&G cheeses, adding that the use of ash enhances flavor and visual appeal of the cheese.

Ash is a traditional way to prepare some goat cheeses because it adds a very nice look… a definite black outlining of the cheese,” explained O’Connor. “In a practical sense ash protects cheese and changes the pH, effecting the rate of ripening of white mold.”

Gustav Ericson, manager of the cheese department at Honest Weight Food Coop in Albany, said R&G’s Chipotle-Maple is a customer favorite.

“Customers love that it’s startling in its initial

salvo of chipotle but hence mellowed by the creamy cheese and the underlying hint of maple,” he said. “And the "Eclipse" is one beautiful little example of the cheese maker's art: small "Crotin"- style cheese with a film of ash underlying the outer layer of white mold.

It's stark white and charred black aesthetic is gracing the cheese boards of many of our customers these days.”

But Ericson says the O’Connor’s magic making doesn’t end with cheese.

“He makes the best goat milk yogurt I know of,” said Ericson. “In fact, he makes the only strawberry yogurt I’ve ever liked. So many flavored products taste like cheap strawberry ice cream… R&G’s is amazing in its flavor and authenticity… creamy but not cloyingly rich.”

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EcoLocal Events SEPTEMBER 25th Farm to Table Dining Experience On September 25th, The Glens Falls Hospital Foundation is holding a Farm to Table fundraiser to benefit their local health centers. The event will feature local chefs, using the best local products, as they along with nutritionists teach us about the importance and benefits of eating and shopping locally. Enjoy cocktails, farm fresh food prepared by local chefs, demonstrations & musical entertainment in a picturesque setting on a fall evening... A benefit event for the Family Health Centers at Glens Falls Hospital. Tickets may be purchased online at www.farmtotabletickets.org. Cost is $65 per person. For additional information, please call 926-5960.

SEPTEMBER 25th $25 on the 25th Campaign The New York Press Association (NYPA) launched $25 on the 25th to promote local shopping by urging New Yorkers to spend $25 on September 25th with a Main Street business. The concept is simple, shopping Main Street makes things better at home, where the heart is. Supporting our local businesses maintains a healthy village, and local economy. Local businesses will be encouraged to offer specials on that day to tie in to the state wide effort to Buy Local. The Village of Cambridge and the Cambridge Valley Chamber of Commerce are encouraging all local residents and businesses to take part in the $25 on the 25th. Keeping our spending local also increases the sales tax dollars that stay here, to support our community. Please visit our web site or Facebook page for more information, www.cambridgenychamber.com or e-mail cambridgechamber@gmail.com.

OCTOBER 2ND • 10AM - 4PM Green Buildings Open House Get a behind-the-scenes look at sustainable technologies and renewable energy solutions, and see how they're saving your neighbors lots of green!

The Northeast Sustainable Energy Association's annual Green Buildings Open House, the largest sustainable energy event in the Northeast, will be taking place on October 2, 2010 from 10 AM to 4 PM. On this day, homes, businesses, and schools invite the public inside to investigate the renewable technologies and green building features being employed on site. Last year, more than 16,000 people toured some 500 sites from Maine to Pennsylvania, and this year's event is expected to be even bigger!

Homes in the Saratoga Springs, Ballston Spa and Capital areas, among others, will be part of this year's Green Buildings Open House (GBOH). Visit www.nesea.org/openhouse/listings/ and search the NESEA GBOH database to get a list of locations in our area (and to learn more).

At host sites, visitors can talk with home and business owners, ask questions, and see how their renewable energy technologies actually work. GBOH also connects building owners and managers with professionals who can provide them with sustainable energy services or energy efficiency retrofits.

“As an organization, NESEA is committed to any and all measures which increase the adoption of clean energy solutions and improved energy efficiency,” says Jennifer Marrapese JD MA, Executive Director of NESEA. “Nothing breeds success like success. When people see for themselves how families and businesses in their own communities are saving energy - and money! sustainable technologies and strategies become much more accessible. And that, ultimately, is our goal.”

Marrapese added, “There is also something very powerful about homeowners talking directly to other homeowners, as opposed to professionals working in the field. Peer to peer recommendations have galvanized participants over the years, this is where real change happens.”

At GBOH sites, you will see homes or businesses that feature any or all of the following: energy efficiency, renewable energy, sustainable materials, lLearn ways

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to reduce your eco-footprint, reduce embedded energy, conserve water, and ensure that buildings are healthy environments and talk to home or building owners on-site, who can help answer your questions about installation, costs, and benefits. Visit www.nesea.org/greenbuildings/aboutgboh/ for more information about Green Buildings Open House.

OCTOBER 28TH • 7PM Who Owns the Weather?

You are invited to attend an informational program - “Who Owns the Weather?” presented by The Bonnefire Coalition on October 28th at 7PM at the Saratoga Public Library in the Sussman Room.

Solar Radiation Management (SRM) is one of the geo-engineering techniques which is being considered by the US Congress and the UK Parliament. SRM proposes to mitigate “global warming” by dispersing a global, atmospheric haze of reflective particles such as sulfur dioxide, aluminum oxide, and designer nanoparticles. This haze can reflect the Sun's heat away from Earth. The Bonnefire Coalition asserts that SRM is already implemented in the form of Persistent Jet Contrails (PJCs). Since November, 2009, testimony regarding SRM and other geoengineering techniques has been given before the US House of Representatives Committee on Science & Technology. Scientists state that Solar Radiation Management will lessen the amount of direct sunlight reaching the Earth.

It is important to remember that direct sunlight is fundamental to life processes on the planet. Photosynthesis relies on direct sunlight. Phytoplankton, which are basic to the oceanic food-web, rely on direct sunlight. Loss of direct sunlight also contributes to Vitamin-D deficiency, depression, Ricketts, an increase in fungi and molds, and pulmonary illness - to name a few. The solar energy industry, fueled by the Sun, is also compromised.

Before discussion of techniques such as SRM became public The Bonnefire Coalition was researching Persistent Jet Contrails - NASA's term for what are commonly called “chemtrails”.The Bonnefire Coalition stays away from this term because those who use it are too often dismissed as conspiracy theorists. Using NASA's own term, Persistent Jet Contrails, helps legitimize concerns as PJCs are laid down, daily and globally, in Xs, grids, and parallel lines. In recent months they have begun to appear in other forms as well. As these “contrails” plume they form cirrus-like artificial clouds which then combine, over hours, to haze the Sky and dim the Sun. NASA is concerned that PJCs hold heat against the Earth and block sunlight. And yet NASA has raised no objections to Solar Radiation Management which produces the same effects. For more information and interviews call 518-854-7764 or email bonne_fire@yahoo.com. The Bonnefire Coalition's website is accessible at www.agriculturedefensecoalition.org.

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