ecoLOCAL magazine Winter 2013

THE ISSUE BUY WELLNESS LOCAL ISSUE Winter 2013 • Issue 30

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MAGAZINE.COM Local Living • Local Economy • Local Communities

INSIDE:

Catherine Hover of Saratoga Paint and Sip PLUS: Four Seasons Natural Foods The Healing Springs of Saratoga Holistic Doctors – McCoy and Davis Sustainable Ag at SUNY Adirondack Cover photo courtesy of Lyndsey Hammer

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On the Cover Meet Catherine Hover, owner of the newly opened Saratoga Paint and Sip Studio, located at 80 Henry Street in Saratoga Springs. Catherine has taken the Spa city by storm with her mob painting concept‌part bar, part art instruction, then throw in your own creative expression and you’ve got a new way to have a fun night out. Sipping beer or wine as you paint helps the creative juices flow. And you get to take home your own work of art.

The energy of the painting session is contagious! In its short existence, Saratoga Paint and Sip has become a huge hit. Thanks Catherine, for helping us to find our inner Picasso!

Geyser Creek in Saratoga Spa State Park Photo by David Delozier

DEPARTMENTS

FEATURES

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News and Views Money Matters Green Designer Wellness Doc Raw-licious Ask the Energy Expert Joys of Functional Living Washington County Eco-LOCAL People

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Saratoga Paint and Sip The Healing Springs of Saratoga Four Seasons Natural Foods Holistic Doctors Sustainable Ag at SUNY Adirondack

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Letter from the Publisher It’s called the “dead” of winter – this slide from January into February. The affliction know as cabin fever has infected many a soul. There’s even a new medical term for it – SAD – Seasonal Affective Disorder. I kid you not – someone actually created a diagnosis for cabin fever, and I’m sure there’s a drug for it. Just ask your doctor. That is, unless you happen to be seeking “alternatives” to cure your winter blues. There is a path to wellness in winter, and it’s just a matter of embracing the season and all it has to offer. With the proper clothing and preparation, spending time outdoors in the cold and snow can be invigorating, rejuvenating. How can you get cabin fever when you have left the confines of the cabin? The white landscape brings about new adventure opportunities. The hard core localvore can be found ice fishing on Saratoga Lake or Lake George. Ice Fishing is the great equalizer – no boat is needed - just a few “pop-ups,” an ice auger, and a thermos full of coffee and you’re in business. One of the best winter exercise regimens is cross-country skiing. Any snow covered landscape can be your playground. That’ll surely change you SAD to GLAD - Grinning Laughing And Doing – fun things in winter!

Speaking of Wellness and GLAD – check out our cover story about Catherine Hover and her Saratoga Paint and Sip Studio. She’s got a sure cure for the winter blues – sign up for an evening class and join in with a bunch of strangers to paint a scene on a canvas, sip a little wine or beer, and laugh yourself silly! Strangers become friends, you get some paint on yourself, and it’s all good. And guys, here’s a little hint – the crowd is mostly women, so this is a great place to meet your next date. You’ll have a head start into a spring fling!

Health and Wellness are also embedded in the fabric of the landscape here. The springs of Saratoga became famous for their healing properties long before the drug companies began peddling their remedies for life’s maladies. In this issue, Local historian and water aficionado Trent Millet gives us his perspective on the amazing resource that is the Saratoga springs. Don’t be shy – bring a bottle with you the next time you’re in town and fill it up at any of the fountains. Each spring is different, and has its own flavor – some strong, some mild, some bubbly. And best of all, they flow freely The dead of winter is a good time to take stock of your strategy for wellness. Maybe you had a resolution to lose some weight, or to exercise more…whatever the goal, know that you are the one responsible for your health. But we shouldn’t go it alone – it’s a good idea to have a coach, someone who is skilled and knowledgeable about the path to wellness. A holistic doctor is that someone who can help you along the way. Inside this issue, we look at a couple of doctors whose focus is well care, instead of sick care. Both doctors take the time to get to know each patient, and listen to their story. That direct relationship is what is missing from most medical mills operating today.

So let’s make 2013 the year best year of our lives. Let wellness be our charge, and accept it with enthusiasm. Get outside, breathe the air, open your arms and say AHH! Paint your dreams upon the day and sip some of that funky Saratoga water. Say “Hi” to stranger, and give someone in need a helping hand.

And of course, do some business with the advertisers herein, as they make it possible for you to hold this magazine in your hands.

David DeLozier, Publisher

eco LOCAL PUBLISHER / EDITOR / SALES David Delozier 518-858-6866 ecolocal@gmail.com DESIGN / PRODUCTION Centerline Design 518-883-3872 kgarriso@nycap.rr.com PRINTING Benchemark Printing, Schenectady Benchemark.net PHOTOGRAPHY Cover Photo - Lyndsey Hammer; Editorial Content - David Delozier, Prof. Johanna Sophia, Harold Shippey CONTRIBUTORS David Delozier, Tracy Frisch, Alison Katz, Trent Millett, Harry Moran, Dr. Michael Quartararo, Prof. Johanna Sophia, Karen Totino Mary Beth McCue, Julie Cushine-Rigg SUBSCRIBE The eco-LOCAL magazine is a free bi-monthly magazine for people choosing to lead more sustainable lifestyles within the greater Capital Region of New York.

It can be found throughout the region at independent retailers, shops, restaurants and other high traffic locales.

Visit www.ecolocalmagazine.com to find a location near you. If you would like to receive a subscription by mail, send $20 along with your name and address to: Eco-LOCAL Media PO Box 621, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.

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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.

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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. EcoLOCAL 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.

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News and Views The Buck Stops Here NEW LOCAL CURRENCY EYES SARATOGA SPRINGS FOR EXPANSION Anna Busser, the enterprising visionary of the Adirondack Cooperative Economy and the new Adirondack Bucks local currency, came down from Warrensburg to pitch her plan of local money to the Local Economy Committee of the Sustainable Saratoga Initiative on January 14th. The “Bucks” idea was launched last year as an attempt for the folks in the North Country to slow the dollar bleed that is hurting towns like Warrensburg. Anyone can join the program for $25 in Federal Reserve Notes, and will receive an equal value in Adirondack Bucks. Similar to the wampum the Native Americans used, the Bucks are a marker of value exchange between two parties. The Bucks are tradable for the goods and services provided by each member.

There’s no redemption back into FRN’s so the idea is to close the loop and keep recirculating value. Instead of money leaving town, it builds and builds. By linking several nearby towns together, the value pool of the Bucks can expand, as the offerings of the membership diversify.

“Saratoga Springs is our big city,” said Busser. “many of us in the southern Adirondack communities come to Saratoga for shopping excursions.” Likewise, many Saratogians travel north to Lake George and Warrensburg to find Adirondack made goods. Busser sees the potential of like minded business people throughout the region accepting the Bucks and then making their own purchases with them into the local wholesale market, who in turn buy products

Maple Weekend A Family Tradition What’s more fun that spending a day with family and friends, tasting maple syrup products? Maple Weekend is a local annual tradition!

The event is in its 18th year, and takes place on March 16-17th and March 23-24th, 2013 from 10am – 4pm each day.

and services from other members, or giving to employees as bonuses or adding value to the employee benefit package. The more people involved in the exchange, the better it works for all, and the relationships and value expand. As the program grows, there’s even the potential of a capital investment pool being created. The FRN’s accumulated by the Cooperative could be made available as a low interest loans for member’s capital projects. Anything is possible, but it needs creative and resourceful people to make it happen. The Adirondack Cooperative Economy welcomes all locally based business people to join the group and help in any way they can.

Many hands makes the load lighter, says Busser. For information, go to the website at adirondackbucks.com, or send an email inquiry to adirondackregionalcurrency@aol.com.

Presentation on Sustainable Buildings & Self Sufficiency EcoLOCAL magazine presents a talk by Peter Jensen, on February 20, from 6-8pm, at the Greenwich Library located at 148 Main Street.

The New York State Maple Producers Association invites families from across the Empire State and neighboring areas to learn all about the production of maple syrup and other related products. Come get a taste of real mouth-watering maple syrup and see it being made up close and personal . Maple producers will demonstrate how to make syrup, whether it’s simply boiling the sap over an open fire or running it through highly scientific equipment, the results always taste great!

Some producers will even offer pancake breakfasts at their sugarhouses.

Come on an unforgettable journey with Danish architect and natural builder Peter Jensen. Peter will share his experiences traveling the world and building sustainable schools and homes for impoverished people. See pictures from Denmark, Pakistan, and Nepal, and learn about building schools in the Himalayan Mountains, including a high school at the highest elevation in the world. During this lecture, Peter will also discuss opportunities for financial independence by building with natural materials, and how to become self sufficient in consumption of energy, water, and food.

New York State maple syrup has established a reputation as one of the highest quality maple syrups in the world. Maple Weekend allows New York Maple producers to demonstrate the superiority of their product, and invites the public to sugarhouses to try for themselves.

Peter builds straw bale houses, and he has helped to build 35 sustainable homes around the world. He is the ambassador for GMIN, an organization that builds green schools in Nepal. He gives lectures on Living and Building sustainably in England, Denmark, and Nepal.

The best part is that admission is free! Visit mapleweekend.com to find a producer near you and to see the dates and times that they’re open.

For more information go to motherearthbuildings.com or call 518858-6866

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Recycling Program at SCCHS Saratoga Central Catholic High School has announced the creation of a Bottle Recycling Program at their school, located at 247 Broadway Saratoga Springs. The "Green Monster,� as the collection shed has been named, is located in the back parking lot of the school, off of Hamilton Street. Glass, metal, and plastic returnable containers can be deposited through the trap door of the Green Monster. The money raised will go to support the sports teams at Spa Catholic and enhance the experience of the students, alumni and fans of Spa Catholic sports. A citywide drive and sorting party is being planned for the Fall. For more information on the "Green Monster" or the recycling program, please contact JeanTaylor at 587-7070 xl08.

Green Ribbon School Initiative Hudson Crossing Park (HCP) and Schuylerville School District are partnering up to join a national movement to earn Green Ribbon status for the school. With a start-up grant from The Community Foundation for the Greater Capital Region's Community/Land Preservation and Planning Fund, HCP has hired a part-time Green Ribbon School Project Director to assist the school in assembling teams of parents, teachers, students, and staff who will provide leadership for various projects and issues. Specific projects already underway include the annual Health Fair, a Butterfly Garden, an outdoor classroom space, and a reinvigorated school-wide recycling program, among others.

For more information visit www.greenribbonschools.org/news, email schuylervillegrs@gmail.com or info@hudsoncrossihgpark.org or call Cindy Wian at 321.9011.

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Money Matters

By Harry Moran, CFP® AIF®

Cliffs, Ceilings and Wellness tipping point, beyond which uncontrollable acceleration would likely occur. I’ll leave the hard science to those far more qualified than I but the trend is clear and extremely alarming.

After the 11th hour deal on the “fiscal cliff”, the mainstream media’s attention has quickly shifted to the battle over raising the debt ceiling. I suspect most of you will be relieved to know that I have no plan to use this space to further dissect the details of the cliff issue.

What I would like to do though, is share some thoughts about the big picture and relate our financial deficit to our ever-growing carbon deficit. In my view, these are the two 800 pound gorillas in the room when looking at sustainability in a broad, longterm context.

In a recent N.Y. Times column, Thomas Friedman tackles this topic and served as an inspiration for this piece. When you think about how much financial debt we have built up in the economy and how much carbon debt we’ve built up in the atmosphere, it’s truly sobering. There are of course many differences between the two issues but I believe they are equally critical to address and are quite related to one another. While some may quibble about the details, I believe that it’s increasingly clear to all of us that the time for action is now.

Unfortunately, debts like these are unlikely to follow a neat and linear path and can take major unpredictable turns at any time. We’re already experiencing this with climate change.

The melting of the ice caps has now accelerated and is happening far faster than most scientists predicted. For thousands of years, the atmosphere contained approximately 280 parts per million of carbon dioxide. Since the dawn of the industrial age 200 years ago, that number has climbed dramatically. We’re now passing 400 parts per million, with 450 being the number routinely cited by the scientific community as the 10

Our financial debt appears to be following a similar path. From 1997 until now, as a percentage of our Gross Domestic Product (GDP), our deficit has more than doubled, growing from 36% to almost 73% today. This is the highest since we topped out at over 112% at the end of World War II in 1945.

Arguably, there were good reasons for that level of debt then as there are now, and we will hopefully grow our way out of it, as we did during the post-World War 2 boom. That being said, we are rapidly approaching a point where the level of debt can become crippling and we are extremely vulnerable should global interest rates rise substantially.

Rates are of course artificially depressed now due to the Federal Reserve’s extremely accommodative monetary policy but this is a temporary phenomenon and rates will again be controlled by market forces in the not too distant future.

Several economists believe that 90% debt to GDP represents a financial tipping point, similar in many respects to the climate tipping point at 450 p.p.m. of CO2. At some point, even if we are able as a global community to make huge cuts in our carbon emissions, it will only serve to prevent further escalation, and meaningful progress will be almost impossible to achieve. Similarly, at some point, our debt will reach a point where even major spending cuts and/or tax increases will only cover the interest and making significant progress in paying down the debt will be extremely difficult.

Ironically, it would appear that roughly half of our political leaders are primarily focused on our carbon debt, while the other half is concentrating on our financial debt. These are two issues that transcend politics and we need to agree on some combination of meaningful spending cuts, tax increases, strategic investments in the economy and heightened energy efficiency standards for Find us online at ecolocalmagazine.com

vehicles, buildings, appliances and power plants, which can be phased in as the economy continues to improve.

A carbon tax is one approach to simultaneously addressing both of these issues. According to the Congressional Research Service, a modest carbon tax of $20 per ton, increasing at 5.6% per year, could decrease the federal deficit by 50% while incentivizing carbon reduction at the individual, business and government level. As Mr. Friedman asks not so hypothetically in his column, would we prefer to push out the start dates for Social Security & Medicare benefits and lose the mortgage interest deduction, or pay a little more for electricity and gasoline?

In addition to helping shrink the deficit, the carbon tax would help clean up the air, further our goals of energy independence and drive innovation. I believe that this is actually one of the most important things we can do to further societal and planetary wellness. In this partisan political environment, can we put aside our differences and agree to explore whether this model would in fact help with our current predicament and leave a more sustainable world to future generations? Let’s make sure our leaders know that a carbon tax at least needs to be on the table during the ongoing deficit discussions.

Harry Moran helps socially conscious investors define and achieve their highest goals by aligning their money with their values. A 25-year veteran of the financial services profession, Mr. Moran has held the Certified Financial Planner® designation since 1991. He is a member of First Affirmative Financial Network, a national professional organization dedicated to meeting the needs of the socially conscious investing community, and a member of the Impact Investing Division of Portfolio Resources Advisor Group, a registered investment adviser. Mr. Moran can be reached directly at Sustainable Wealth Advisors at hmoran@prggroup.net or 518-450-1755.

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. Securities offered through Portfolio Resources Group, Inc., member FINRA, SIPC, MSRB, SIFMA.

The Green Designer

By Karen Totino

PROJECT HIGHLIGHTS: Cork Floors We thought it might be nice to highlight some of our customer's successful installations and projects using some of our products, specifically cork flooring. At Green Conscience we love cork flooring for several reasons. Cork contains a natural substance called suberin, which is almost magical when you consider the qualities it brings to a floor. 1. Bugs, mold, mildew, mites and termites find suberin repellent. 2. Suberin is a natural fire inhibitor and does not release any toxic gases on combustion. 3. Suberin keeps cork from breaking down when left submerged in water for a period of time.

small imperfections that inevitably occur over time. Single tiles can be replaced if needed. Seams are filled with a top coat of floor finish applied after installation, so no worries about food, dirt or crumbs being trapped indefinitely in your floor. No need to refinish it or scrub it hard either; just a damp mop with a little soap will do.

Stand on concrete or ceramic tile for over an hour and your low back will start to tighten and ache. This feeling of comfort and support this buoyancy - comes from the air contained in its millions of cells.

A cork floor is great in a kitchen or any place where prolonged standing is required. What cork really has over the competition is comfort!

Stop in or call Karen for questions and to see the selection of wool and natural fiber carpets at Green Conscience Home & Garden at 33 Church Street, Saratoga Springs NY. Green Conscience is a retail showroom that offers a variety of non-toxic and eco-friendly home improvement products, including paint, wood, cork and linoleum flooring, clay plasters, carpets, kitchen cabinets, countertops and beds. Call 518-306-5196, email Karen@green-conscience.com or visit green-conscience.com.

Janet and John Friauf installed a cork floor in their bedroom. Janet explains "We were initially attracted to cork because it can be harvested sustainably. We have several cork flooring products in our home which are installed in the bedrooms and the basement laundry room. We like them all, but on the last (from Green Conscience) we chose a product made without toxic adhesives to avoid introducing VOCs into our home. We are very happy with the results and the "greenest" floor product is also the most rugged and durable. We particularly like that the cork floors are not cold on bare feet and have some "give" when walking on them. " Many people like the warmth of carpet but are looking to have the anti-allergen benefits and ease of cleaning/maintaining a hard surface. One of my favorite qualities about cork, is its ability to insulate against heat loss (it has an insulating factor of about R-2.8 per inch.) As cork contains so much air, it will absorb the heat of your feet while walking on it and will reflect it back to you. This is why you have a nice warm sensation when walking bare foot on a cork floor. Tests have shown that less heat is lost through the feet with a cork floor than with hardwood, vinyl or ceramic floors.

Katie Capelli and Rich Frank, owners of 4 Seasons Health Food, recently installed cork in a music room with a piano. Cork's ability reduce sound and vibration transmission made it a good choice for this application. Cork underlayment is often used under hard wood floors, ceramic tiles and carpets to absorb sound..perfect for those noisy kids upstairs or for a home theater/jam room.

What about a kitchen you might ask? The question of durability people so often ask me about: "Won't it scratch?"

Because of its honeycomb cellular structure and the fact that its tissue is nearly 85% comprised of an air-like gas, cork is not only lightweight and low density, but also has an elasticity and pliability that makes it naturally resilient: it can withstand wear and tear at an increased level. The grinding action that is present in harder floors is much less - it is more 'giving'. In addition, its natural grain hides Text ecolocalmag to 72727 for updates, events and special offers

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The Wellness Doc

By Dr. Michael Quartararo of AAC Family Wellness Centers

Preventative Medicine? patient who asks more questions and demands greater understanding about their condition and the treatment options. Doctor recommendations are no longer taken as gospel. This development has caused a rift in the medical profession.

health they only treat symptoms and diseases.

SICK CARE NOT HEALTH CARE. My goal is to try and create some clarity between prevention/wellness and medicine/sick care. Both are vital to a healthy family but where do we go for these services.

Medical doctors, such as Dr. Joe Mercola We know who the experts are in medicine/sick (www.mercola.com), expose prescription care, but who are the experts in prevention and medicines and the harmful effects they have on wellness care? the human body. Yes medicines have harmful effects… they are usually called 'side effects' Lets look at health care professions who are and ALL prescription medications have them! not sick care professions. Chiropractic, This is why more and more medical doctors are Naturopathy, Homeopathy, Massage Therapy educating themselves on chiropractic, and other forms of bodywork, Acupuncture, nutrition, homeopathy, vitamins, etc… They are and Nutritionists. These professions may moving toward wellness care and away from approach health care from different angles but the treatment of disease. However, this is they all have one thing in common. Their goal creating a very confused public. Some doctors is to improve function in the body. With are hesitant to prescribe drugs while others are improved function you have improved health. still touting the 'miracles' of prescription drugs. So the next time your doctor demands you get Let's investigate medicine and it's practices to a flu shot, take an acid blocker, take cholesterol see if “preventative medicine” makes sense. By medication, or any other medication. Ask definition medicine is “the science of yourself, “Am I really helping my body function diagnosing and treating diseases with drugs, better by taking drugs? What can I do to surgeries, or procedures.” If we look at this improve my body function so it doesn't express closely, a person needs to have a disease in these symptoms?" Visit your local chiropractor order for treatment to be given. Furthermore, or other wellness professional. Get their drugs are the most widely used treatment in opinion on your body's function. They will medicine. Ask your doctor, listen to the TV advise you on things that can be done to commercials, ALL DRUGS/MEDICATIONS HAVE improve function and move your body toward SIDE EFFECTS! That is due to the fact that they health! As always, Be Well!

Preventative medicine has always been a term I've had trouble with. Over my last twenty years in practice I have seen significant changes in the healthcare industry. For instance, vitamin use and exercise were once only used by “health nuts". Now after years of research and advancements in information availability, people are reaping the rewards of health and longevity by caring for themselves in a wellness capacity. My profession has always been wellness orientated. Since 1895 chiropractors have educated people that caring for the human frame and structure is far superior to the treatment of disease. This is the reason I am so passionate about our principles are foreign to your body and cause your body to of wellness. defend itself. Often times these side effects can In the last twenty years the practice of be harmful to the function of the kidneys, liver medicine has also changed. With the increased and many other organs in the body… even to availability of information today's health care the point of being lethal! That is not wellness consumer is better educated. The result is a care. Drugs and medications NEVER stimulate

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Dr. Michael Quartararo has been a chiropractic wellness practitioner in Saratoga since 1993. He is the CEO and founder of AAC Family Wellness Centers, a Milton family and pediatric wellness center. He is a member of the New York State Chiropractic Council, International Chiropractic Council, International Pediatric Chiropractic Council and World Chiropractic Alliance. Visit aacdocs@adirondackchiropractic.com or aacfamilywellness.com.

RAW-licious

By Prof. Johanna Sophia

On the Vegan Trail: Restaurant Hopping when they heard I was a raw foodist, then to the Greek brothers with more dips and potato-garlic delights and delicious Calamata olives; and finally, the crowning on all the meals, to the vegan bakery.

I had a hard time imagining how people could stomach all that voluminous food. But I did not have a hard time believing that I, too, would have eaten equally much before my raw diet. Or, for that matter, would have had What do we do when we're going out with portions of each of the ethnic offerings if they peers or family to restaurants that do not were offered 'in the raw.' Everything looked cater to our diets? We talk to the chef, right and smelled absolutely delicious. there on the spot or in advance. Most chefs The impressive thing for me was that these 40 are very eager to show that they can come up individuals were far from a 'homogenous' with delicious creations that fit their group where everybody follows the same customers' needs. guru or is of the same age or comes from a The other day, I joined a group of members of certain 'class' in society: this was a group truly the Albany Vegan Network to find out how from all walks of life! There were young they do it. engineers from Eastern countries who eat vegan or vegetarian due to their religion, they 40 people of all ages - well, 18 years and up were great conversationalists and interested were restaurant hopping in the city of Troy. in everybody's life, then there were older Claire, the president of the organization had veggie-lovers who found that leaving out done the talking to the chefs the previous animal products had greatly improved their week. health and stamina. There were a couple of Who would have thought there were 4 body builders who wanted advice on gaining ethnically diverse restaurants and one bakery strength and endurance with organic vegan to offer different 100% vegan meals all in foods, and there were the animal lovers who walking distance from one another in one day decided that they could not fight for downtown Troy? But there it was: each animal rights at the same time as they would restaurant went out of their way to be consuming them. There were also a few demonstrate that they have scrumptious 'omnivores' checking out new choices to vegan choices. expand their culinary portfolios. Great. The conversations were of global scope and We started out at the Beirut restaurant where everybody was interesting. the most eager and friendly owner enticed everybody's pallet with Middle Eastern dips Next we will have a Raw Vegan restaurant and falafels - there was even a raw parsley hopping event! I look forward to it. salad that I could enjoy.

The tour continued with meals at a homecooking-looking Caribbean restaurant ; lots of great-smelling, flavorful, and colorful vegetables from sweet potatoes to okra. I enjoyed all the smells.

Visit www.johannasrealfoods.com or call Johanna Sophia's office at 518-795-5030 for more information.

From there we digested on the short walk to the Italian 'Calzone' specialists who immediately made me a voluminous salad

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Ask the Energy Expert

By Jacqi Rose Anderson

Solar Battery Backup Systems

A CLEAN, RELIABLE ALTERNATIVE TO GAS GENERATORS As a New York State resident, you have most likely experienced at least one power outage in the past two years. It may have been a standard snowstorm that caused the grid to fail, or perhaps it was a hurricane.

Regardless of the cause of the outage, you are surely aware of how uncomfortable and occasionally dangerous a loss of electricity can be.

If you do not have a backup generator, losing power can mean spoiled food or lost appliances. Even worse, if critical systems like sump pumps and furnaces are not able to function, outages can lead to flooding and even evacuation. If you do have a back-up gas generator, there is always a risk of running out of fuel. If downed trees or power lines, extreme snow fall or flooding keep you from leaving your home for an extended period of time, what will you do when the fuel runs out?

A clean, alternative solution is a solar electric system with battery backup. The solar modules collect energy from the sun and keep the battery bank charged. On a typical day when the grid is operational, the modules provide power to your house and can even generate enough energy to spin your utility meter backwards, building up a credit with the utility company. With the addition of a battery backup system, when the grid goes down and your neighbors lose power, you will not. The transition from standard functioning to battery backup power can be so seamless; you may not even notice that the grid is down!

During the day, the solar modules charge the batteries to full, and then continue to generate electricity. When the sun goes down, the system pulls energy from the battery bank. You can use the power stored in the batteries to power lights, keep your refrigerator running, and even

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provide your family with a hot meal. There is no trekking outside in the middle of the night to fill an empty generator, and no noise to keep you from sleeping soundly. As the sun rises, the modules resume making energy and recharge the batteries. As long as the sun is shining, your batteries charge, and you have electricity, day and night.

As an added bonus, when you install a solar electric system with battery backup, you can receive an incentive from New York State, as well as state and federal tax credits that can total up to 70% of the system cost. So you are not only insuring your family's safety in a time of grid instability, you are also making a wise investment and increasing the value of your home. In one purchase you can lock in your utility rate, sell unused power back to the utility company, protect yourself from grid failure, and produce your own clean energy.

Hudson Solar is a local, family-owned solar provider and a proud employer of military veterans. With offices in Albany and Rhinebeck, and over 1,000 installed systems in the Hudson Valley and Adirondack Regions, Hudson Solar is ready to provide you with efficient local service. They will design a backup system that fits your needs. Hudson Solar can install small systems that backup critical appliances like sump pumps, or large systems to keep your home office running.

Schedule a site visit today, install a solar electric system with battery backup, and be ready the next time the grid goes down in your neighborhood. Contact Hudson Solar at (866) 452-7652 or find them on the web at www.hudsonsolar.com.

Hudson Solar is a New York-owned, family business that prides itself on offering the best quality and service, backed by years of experience. For more information, please call (866) 452-7652 or visit us at www.HudsonSolar.com.

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Joys of Functional Living

By Mary Beth McCue RD CDN Dietitian in Integrative and Functional Medicine Transformative Coach

Sustain Yourself via “The Cleanse” and signaling compounds, amongst others, are typically eliminated from the body by the same enzymatic detoxification systems that protect the body from environmental toxins, or clear prescription drugs from circulation. Metabolic detoxification reactions, therefore, are not only important for protection from the environment, they are central to homeostatic balance in the body.

Knowing when one should detox, and how to specify protocols according to individual This time of year is popular for detoxifying needs; will determine if one is heading towards (detox) and cleansing the body because of health, illness or worse after completing.

New Years Resolutions' centering on healthy It is important to detox yearly; per the body composition and weight loss; goals of latest research in functional medicine. improving care of oneself and ultimately When our bodies become toxic it's natural feeling better! Many are not well informed on ability to eliminate metabolic waste from this important process, some are getting normal human metabolism, environmental dangerous advice. Since it is extremely pollution pharmaceutical use, poor quality diet individualized, as with all healing matters of such as the Standard American Diet (or SAD) the body, here are some general concepts to has exceeded the threshold for what the keep in mind. body's innate detoxification system can The process of detox is happening all the time tolerate. With this “toxic load”, every system in our bodies in every cell, not just the main in the human body can become negatively detox organs: liver, kidneys, colon, lungs, impacted. We can feel sluggish, depressed, lymphatic system and skin. The process become chronically ill and/or overweight enhances the body at physical, emotional and (toxins store in fat tissue making fat hard to spiritual levels, and becomes more effective access and “burn” as energy). The aging each time you do it. In the context of human process can slow and even reverse with proper biochemistry, detoxification can be described detoxing. with precision beyond this article; as it refers to a specific metabolic pathway, active throughout the body, that processes unwanted chemicals for elimination. This pathway, referred to as “metabolic detoxification”, involves a series of enzymatic reactions that neutralize toxins and makes them soluble (phase I) so to transport them to secretory organs (like the liver or kidneys), so that they can be excreted from the body (phase II). This type of detox is sometimes called xenobiotic metabolism, because it is the primary mechanism for ridding the body of xenobiotics (foreign chemicals); however, detoxification reactions are frequently used to prepare unneeded endobiotics (endogenouslyproduced chemicals naturally occurring in the body) for excretion from the body. Excess hormones, vitamins, inflammatory molecules,

mentioned above. Readers are welcome to download a symptoms survey on my home page of SaratogaNutrition.com. After completing, if you're > 50 , you would benefit from cleansing. This form is one tool used in a functional medicine assessment.

Heavy metal detoxing (including lead, mercury, cadmium, and arsenic) is an entirely different process. This fast immerging area of functional medicine has taken some amazing positive leaps the past couple years and we now have testing methods so refined that we can easily and economically understand how metals an individual has stored, what the current exposure to metals is and how effective they are actually eliminating.

Chelation methods have advanced as well.

Most of the pioneers in heavy metal detox are now using amazingly safe, simple, effective and inexpensive homeopathic's. In addition, they have little to no side effects AND help support the detox process in a multitude of ways beyond chelating, such as increasing Glutathione (GSH.) an extremely important, “mother” of all antioxidants that is very much needed in the detox process. Gone are the days of IV chelation, or utilizing harsh oral chelating agents such as DMSA (meso-2,-3dimercaptosuccinic acid), which is now known to be very dangerous and can “burn-out” the kidney. More and more, people are getting on The detox diet is a very fortified diet since we the same page about this very common issue. need many additional nutrients to do the extra work detox entails. We also need specified Duration of cleansing is individual, nutrients above and beyond the diets depending on the health of as client, and the macronutrients. The long-term effects of being goals, 10 days to 6 weeks is a normal range. To on a detox diet is that it sets the stage for get the ultimate most from detoxing, use people to continue to consume a sustainable journaling as a way to “cleanse” your inner healthy whole foods diet; many times taking it world and relieve yourself of mental and to another level on a regular basis . The diet is emotional stress. And meditate. For more on safe, simple, realistic, and pleasurable meditation, please see my current blog article transition into healthy eating. It is not in www.Saratoga.com on how to become your “juicing”, or fasting, or eating very minimally best champion in 2013 through this process. such as 5 foods only. It is based on a Mary Beth McCue RD, CDN of Saratoga Nutrition is a sustainable whole foods, plant-based diets.

Dietitian in Integrative and Functional Medicine, & NYS How do you know if you are toxic and need to properly cleanse? The research suggests that everyone will benefit from cleansing because of the life style issues

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Certified Nutritionist in downtown Saratoga Springs, NY with more than 25 years as a professional speaker, counselor, hands on teacher and more. She has assisted many - including herself - to health and recovery. For more information, visit www.saratoganutrition.com or read her blog on www.Saratoga.com.

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SARATOGA Paint and Sip PAINT, DRINK AND BE MERRY! STORY BY ALISON KATZ I PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID DELOZIER

Paint and Sip is a unique bar, art studio hybrid. It is a studio for beginner and experienced artists alike to kick back and relax while enjoying a few drinks and creating a work of art of their own. Just around the corner from the Caroline Street bar madness, it is nestled on Henry Street, a slightly quieter, yet still bustling part of town.

Catherine Hover grew up in New Orleans where studios like Paint and Sip were everywhere. She studied fashion and lived in New York for a while. Tired of the New York scene, she moved up to Saratoga, where she saw an opportunity to bring a part of her former home to her new one. As sort of a transformation of one art form to another, she founded Saratoga Paint and Sip which opened in last spring. Saratoga is the perfect town to spread this idea. It is a very busy area, especially come summertime. There are a lot of seasonal people and a lot of turnaround when it comes to the people. There are fresh faces in Saratoga every day. The most import thing however, is that it is a very art friendly environment. This is a very old and classic town, it celebrates art, and music, and history, and it is the perfect place to host a new kind of art studio (for upstate New York).

Catherine staffs experienced artists who teach the classes. All of the artists have past experience in art education so they are ready to help out anyone that is struggling in the class. This is particularly important because it is one thing to be able to paint, but it is another to know how to explain it to others with less experience.

The teachers are friendly, and ready to help if anyone is struggling, but the nice thing about it is the sessions can be as serious as you want them to be. There is no competition. It is a very user friendly environment. The general way the classes go is that you are trying to emulate a painting while the teacher goes step by step to explain how to recreate it. There is a new painting every night to be taught. Full artistic license is granted to the students, they can incorporate their style, change colors, or even paint something that

is completely their own. There is a bar in the back so wine, beer, and other drinks are available to accompany the art filled environment along with the occasional snack. It is a very social and laid back setting. You are surrounded by paintings and fabric draped on the walls, the space itself is very creative. The walls are colorful, the air is filled with music and artwork is everywhere. The cool thing about a place like this is that you are in a judgment free environment and can explore a skill that you may have thought you never had. At the end of the night you have a new masterpiece to go on your wall or to hide in your closet, but in the end it's all about enjoying the experience.

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There is nothing like a studio full of artists and that is what Paint and Sip turns into at night. When the place fills up, it has all kinds of energy. Usually the people are just eager to paint. Many come with a group or a friend, but when you are sitting next to someone for two hours in a place like that, new friends are easily made. It is lively, people are laughing and chatting, sometimes there are some

loud talkers, especially as the night progresses, but no matter what the energy and who is there, it is always positive and fun.

All kinds of people come to share the creativity. Mothers come with their daughters, friends bring friends. Young adults are joined by older generations. Experienced artists are among newcomers. Even men sometimes wander in. contrary to society's belief, it can be manly for men to paint. (So get your butts over there and don't be scared of judgment, you can prove them wrong by the awesome painting you made.) Anyone can come and everyone will feel welcome. One of the qualities that make it successful is the level of comfort the place gives off. Who wants to go to a place to paint to feel judged? No one. Paint and Sip allows for acceptance of everyone. There is no critique at the end, there is no pointing and laughing at others. Because of the different levels of experience that can be found in the studio, and the different level of seriousness given to the artwork that is created by every individual, it is not a place to find comfort in putting others down. It is a place to find comfort in having a few drinks and a few laughs while experimenting with paint.

Paint and Sip hosts events ranging from normal painting sessions, to children's birthday parties, to bachelorette parties, to retirement parties. It is a very adaptable space. The concept can be used for pretty much any occasion; it is up to the students to create the environment. To sign up for one of the sessions or plan a private party you can either call the studio, or register online.

As the night comes to a close, most of the participants end up proud in their work. The teachers do a very good job in leading the class, and for the majority, the end result was probably better than

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they would have expected, as most of the people who do come in are beginning artists.

The nice thing about art is that you can always improve, and whether or not it was a onetime thing or a weekly visit, a night at Paint and Sip is a memorable one, and you get to go home with a souvenir.

Saratoga Paint and Sip Studio is located at 80 Henry Street in Saratoga Springs. Call 518-584-8244 to reserve a seat or go online to SaratogaPaintAndSip.com Alison Katz is a 2012 graduate of Saratoga Springs High School, an artist, and now a freelance writer. Contact Alison at Alison.i.katz@gmail.com

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Governor and Peerless Springs 20

HEALING WATERS THE SPRINGS OF SARATOGA STORY BY AIME “TRENT” MILLET I PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID DELOZIER I began investigating the reported healing properties and medical use of American waters in 1998.

A large number of American waters were used medicinally up until the 1960s. I concentrated my research around the Saratoga Springs area due to the well cataloged medicinal and historic use of its many waters.

HEALING HUMANS FOR CENTURIES The area known as Serachtague, “place of swift water,” was sacred to the Mohawks and other Native Americans. They believed the naturally carbonated water had been stirred by the god Manitou, endowing it with healing properties. In 1771, Sir William Johnson, Superintendent of all Indian affairs in the British Colonies, was brought to the spring at High Rock by the natives to heal a leg injury.

The application of the water helped to heal the affliction. Sir Johnson then wrote about the miracle to a friend, and the rest, as they say, is history. Modern non-indigenous man has been coming to use the waters for health since that revelation.

By 1900, there were sanitariums utilizing the water, bath houses and drinking halls supplying multiple waters, inhalation halls for breathing the waters vapors, and numerous bottling plants, all servicing an estimated 450,000 people annually. Over twenty different waters were bottled and shipped worldwide. As late as the 1990's over a half dozen waters were shipped to clinics, hospitals, sanitariums and medical facilities, just for the cure of digestive problems.

The 250-year use of Saratoga's waters for healing reached its pinnacle with the building of Saratoga's Roosevelt Spa by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in the 1935. The already famous Lincoln and Washington Baths had been operating for almost half a century. By 1930, Lincoln Bath had the ability to give 4500 treatments a day. In 1948 the three baths combined gave 197,000 baths for the treatment of health problems!

SARATOGA - A UNIQUE CONCENTRATION OF HEALING WATERS The same type of water is still a major percentage of medical treatment elsewhere.

Many countries send people at state expense for three weeks of Spa (“Sanas Per Aqua” or “Health through Water”). The most commonly stated reason, throughout countries such as France, Poland, German, Czechoslovakia, the former USSR, and Hungary, is an expected ten to fifteen year increase in vital life expectancy.

“Vital” meaning not only the possible increase of number of years alive, but more importantly, the number of years individuals can continue to be active and contributing to their communities.

The reason the world's great Spa Doctors declared Saratoga as the “world's greatest health resort,” was because of the quantity of springs. While Europe and other places have similar types of mineral waters that are found here in Saratoga, they're just not all in one place! Even considering that New York had at one time had over 300 waters used for health and healing, including the remarkable sulfur, calcium and magnesium waters of Sharon Springs, 45 miles west of Albany, no other place on the planet surpasses the miracle known as Saratoga!

THE HEALING SPRINGS Starting in the north end of Saratoga, we find High Rock Park. Right next to the farmers market pavilion, flow Governor and Peerless Springs. Governor, I find from talking to many people, has quite a following of folks who have it be their favorite water. It is also the Text ecolocalmag to 72727 for updates, events and special offers

spring water most mentioned by people for use watering plants indoors and out. It is a relatively mild mineral water.

Peerless is a stronger water; I find no existing records of its use by medical and health professionals.

However, this is not an indication that it was not used that way. All the waters of Saratoga were used for health, healing and longevity by various clinics, sanatoriums and medical clinicians. It is the lack of records, and the destruction of those that did exist, that leave us ignorant. Many doctors intended to compile records, but were too busy to do so.

We do have records that indicate all the bath houses combined, when many privately owned baths were operating, gave 247,000 baths in one year! The Roosevelt, Lincoln and Washington Baths all are using the Lincoln CO2 water, averaged 110 to 130 thousand baths a season, with Lincoln reaching 4000 baths per DAY at one point. No wonder doctors and medical staff never found time to finally compile their records.

The one exception is the public records compiled by Dr Mc Clellan for the Roosevelt baths during its years as a V.A, Hospital. We know from those records that Roosevelt Bath had a 93.9% success rate for improvement of rheumatoid arthritis (21-28 baths) 93.1% for osteoarthritis, 89.9% success rate for Gout.

The majority of clients were treated for heart and circulatory conditions (85,000 plus in ten years). That is not surprising, as, while bathing in the Lincoln CO2 water, the heart goes into a state of rest. Veins ,capillaries, and arteries 21

Old Red Spring

expand in vascular dilation, causing a significant increase in blood flow to all parts of the body (a recent study from Japan shows a 1.5-2.5% increase blood flow through the body from just a FOOT bath using natural CO2 water). There is an increase of 3 to 5 times of the removal of carbon dioxide (CO2) from the body, with the resulting bio-toxins removed along with it. Blood pressure equalizes, along with the benefit of ionization for the immune and lymph systems. If one rests afterward, the effect remains for up to two hours.

The water and its effects haven't changed only the awareness.

Back to the north end. The only natural seltzer spring in the United States flowed behind the farmers market pavilion until the 1990s. What happened to it or why it no longer flows I have been unable to ascertain. I find mention of it in newspaper articles of the last century of water used to bake bread without yeast (which is organic leavening).That, I am sure, would have been Seltzer spring. Pity it's not flowing today.

We know that High Rock Spring was used for thousands of years. When the tufa (the mineral cone formation) was removed in the 1800s to find out why water was being lost, a log enclosure was found 7 feet beneath the surface, indicating 600 to 800 years of use by the native people. 17 feet below ground level, 22

remnants of a wood fire were discovered, Estimates at the time were that it was 3000 to 5000 years old. Not sure how accurate that is but I am confident during my tours to state it's been used at least a thousand years BC. OLD RED SPRING FOR THE BLOOD AND SKIN Two blocks east we come to “Old Red”. I consider this spring one of the three most important in all of Saratoga, and among the dozen of the best in the eastern US. The iron content in Old Red is very similar to the hemoglobin in the blood, and contains two human cell salts. At one point in my health, I was down to a hemoglobin count of 2.14; when my doctors expressed astonishment that I could function, I told them I was drinking 2 to 4 gallons of iron water a day to replace blood loss. They said, “Doesn't do any good if it can't hold oxygen.” I replied, “ it can if the iron has the molecular pattern of hemoglobin.”

The large numbers of people who have come back to me to say their blood iron normalized after drinking Old Red, and had their medical practitioners remove them from taking artificial iron supplements, backs up my belief.

I came to Saratoga in 2003 with a twenty year old skin problem, and had been on digestive enzymes for three years. I began drinking the water from Old Red, and a week later when Find us online at ecolocalmagazine.com

both problems were being eliminated. I had to know why, and have been researching the once common knowledge since. I credit Old Red with my skin problem never appearing again. I have had upward of 150 people at this point tell me the application of Old Red eliminated their eczema and psoriasis or other skin problems. I found a record of one doctor in the 1920's taking affidavits on its ability to reverse shingles.

Over a dozen people have told me they use Old Red for pink eye. Just the other day an old lady (old being past 90) told me, “My father used to bath his eyes in Old Red's water on Saturday night so he could read the Sunday paper without his glasses!” On one tour, a woman told me her father used it on an eye injury, against his doctors orders, only to astound the doctor with the degree and extent of his recovery in record time. Three people explained to me that they use it for cataracts.

An ambulance some decade ago picked a man up from a factory with severe chemical burns and stopped on the way to the hospital to bath the burns in Old Red (couldn't get away with that now)! I could continue with many more “healing story's” of this Spring. Mostly around skin rash, acne and burns, and I know now why I hold such deep personal love and reverence for her.

THE HATHORN SPRINGS FOR DIGESTION My next favorite water is Hathorn 1 in the middle of town. The Hathorn series of waters were one of five shipped worldwide to hospitals, dispensaries and clinics for digestive problems. Coesa (still flowing but not available), Geyser (available across from the Auto Museum in the spout labeled “mineral water”; Vichy and Vichy-qua being the others, with many such as Congress, Putman, and Excelsior (one of over 20 springs once in the High Rock area) shipped worldwide for health and maintenance benefits. Hathorn 1 was the water that took me off digestive enzymes and is amazingly effective for colitis.

Vitamins dance with minerals to create enzymes. The minerals in our waters are in colloidal form, are the right particle size (not all colloidal minerals are), and exhibit the right frequency for integration into our bodies. People ask what is meant by frequency: if you have ever tried walking across a crowded dance floor it is extremely difficult, get in rhythmic movement with the dancers and you can dance through.

Ingredients need to be in like frequency with our body substances.

Doctors have recommended one or two 6 or 8 ounce glasses of Hathorn 20+ minutes before meals (never right afterward as it is alkaline) or sipped throughout the day.

Many college students know a few glasses before a “night on the town” will remove any indication of alcohol consumption the next morning - just another indication of how well it resets ones bodily condition. It's also one of the reasons Saratoga did become a town of indulgence for many over the years, forgiving unreasonable food and alcohol consumption. This spring is the source of many stories!

In the lower Spa Park, my favorite water is Polaris - the small spouter across from the parking lot of the picnic area. Polaris is a marvelous sparkling seltzer type water. Eight out of ten people find it delightful.

She is also fun to play “drinking fountain” with. I feel like she is the ancient playmate of my inner child. Polaris makes amazing smoothies.

They become very smooth and slightly effervescent. Following a certain Oriental practice of using naturally carbonated water for blood pressure control and being of little salt content, I indulge in rather large amounts of it.

Certainly of worthy mention is Karista. Karista was not running for several decades. There are three types of “mud” used medically and therapeutically for mud packs, baths and poultices to remove toxins, poisons and heavy metals from the body: Peat mud from peat moss, volcanic type mud, known as “fango” and mud from leaves that decay for centuries without putrefying. When researches looked throughout the U.S. to find the last type, two places in the east they found that type were outside Atlantic, Georgia and around Krista Spring, due to the type of iron in her water. For years I prayed/intended over her non-running spout for her return. This summer along with so many wonderful things the Park achieved, was the turning back on of Krista. An awesome water of crystal quality and coolness (45 degrees).

There are many other waters to praise. Orenda and Hayes both high in natural lithium and iodine that are ideally received by inhalation and fill the atmosphere surrounding the area with health. Many problems with thyroid are reported. One reason is our thymus and pituitary is bonding around fluoride and bromide instead of iodine (of similar molecular structure ) due to a lack of iodine in our diets. So I find myself most fond of both these springs. Hayes in large amounts is a lower digestive purgative and laxative of strength. Orenda was used for the inhalation of potassium iodine.

Filling up at the Hayes Spring The benefits of natural lithium are an article in itself.

Geyser, of world fame as a anti acid, digestive aid and cathartic, makes “superior flapjacks” according to newspaper bylines of the 1940's, and a niece of Hattie's of the famous “ Hattie's Chicken” restaurant has a recipe using Geyser water in a cake. Personally I think it should be baked and sold as “Saratoga's own Geyser cake”. Geyser does not make superior smoothies, however, turning a smoothie into a super laxative!

I do not suggest trying it!

We have many more waters; I do not believe we will ever know how many actually existed. Well over 250 were counted when the carbonic company's were raping our water for the CO2, for use in soda fountain drinks. The analysis of more than a hundred shows each as different. I constantly find the Springs mentioned in the research I do that are not recorded in “Spring” lists.

There is a lot more that could be said and reported about our waters, all supporting the reason why the world's Spa doctors, from medical spa's around the world, have declared that “Saratoga Spa is the greatest health resort on earth!”

Aime “Trent” Millet is a lay water researcher specializing in the waters of Saratoga. He gives water tours from Roosevelt Baths on Friday and Sunday at 1 & 3pm and Saturday at 10am & 3 pm. Call 802-473-2836 for more information, or email Spiritflytrent@yahoo.com.

Hathorn #1 Spring

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Rick Frank, owner of Four Seasons Natural Foods 24

Four Seasons Natural Foods A NATURAL HUB OF THE COMMUNITY

STORY BY PROF. JOHANNA SOPHIA I PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID DELOZIER AND JOHANNA SOPHIA REVIEWS: GOOD ENERGY AND GOOD PEOPLE...

“What it lacks in size, it more than makes up for by serving awesome, healthy food.” “I got a rich slice of chocolate cake for $3.50 and had a short glimpse of heaven.” “My mom is diabetic and whenever we eat here, it shows in her blood sugar readings... in a good way.” “I really enjoyed everything I had, so much so I went back for seconds!” “We found this traveling through Saratoga. My wife and I wish there was a place like this at home.“ “I was so happy to find this place. Next time I am in Saratoga I will go here and eat all of their cake. Amen.” These are just a few comments randomly picked from long lists of four and five star online reviews by happy customers for one little place in Saratoga Springs.

EAT GOOD FOOD While Broadway in Saratoga Springs is well known for the eclectic shops and restaurants that cater to the throngs of tourists that visit the Spa City, just a block away to the east is special place that the locals have claimed as their own. That would be Four Seasons Natural Foods Store and Café, a favorite for over 25 years. This funky health food store and vegetarian café on the corner of Phila and Putnam Streets is the place to find good food and the people who crave it. It is the hub of the enlightened foodie, the vegetarian, the locavore, and the conscious consumer. Need a hard to find supplement? Chances are, Four Seasons stocks it. If they don't have it, they can get it. Looking to “localize” your diet? Four Seasons carries many products sourced within a hundred mile radius. Want eco-friendly sundries? You'll find them there, too.

And then there's the café. Featuring an ever-changing vegetarian buffet, it is the one place in town that you can go and know you're eating good. Vegans from all over the region come to indulge at the buffet. All of the food is vegan, with the rare exception of dairy cream or cheese in an individual dish, which is always noted.

sweet beets, savory tofu, seaweed salad and more. The young men told me they did not always eat vegan but “it's just really great tasting food!” They come here to eat whenever they're working a downtown construction job, they said. “We were brought up to eat good food and stay strong,” one of them explained. Many families feed their kids here when they're in town. Locals bump into their friends and acquaintances. Everything is sold by the pound, so you can choose as much or as little as you like. For those on the go, there's the take-out packages made of brown recycled-cardboard boxes that look like a folded-up origami sculpture.

NATURAL PHARMACY My son had a bicycle accident last year and sprained his wrist. A Waldorf parent colleague suggested the herbal deep tissue cream sold at Four Seasons. The cream, together with acupuncture, did a great job helping him quickly recover. But more than that, the deep tissue cream is now part of our home pharmacy; it helps healing bruises and blemishes at an accelerated speed. Many times have I overheard staff at the store giving guidance to customers seeking to naturally support self-healing with remedies available here.

KIDS AND CONSTRUCTION WORKERS Last fall, the Apple Blossom Bunch School's Pre-K in the Park program (www.appleblossombunch.com) came to eat here every day - you can see how at home the children are getting their fresh corn on the cob, brown rice and vegetables (picture). But kids and families are not the only typical customers. The other day, I asked four young men who looked like members of a construction crew on their lunch break what made them eat vegan. They were piling up their plates with the colorful foods from buffet: spinach lasagna, Text ecolocalmag to 72727 for updates, events and special offers

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RICH FRANK OWNER OF FOUR SEASONS Rich Frank, owner of Four Seasons, is rich in knowledge and frank in his responses. He knows what's in his store. Rich can be found in the store most days, and is the heart and soul of not just of the store, but of the large community of eco-conscious people he serves.

When I came to Saratoga Springs in late August of 2010 so that my children could attend the High School of the Waldorf School of Saratoga Springs, Four Seasons was the place where we could eat and meet before we even had our own apartment. We were immediately embraced by the community (and still do!). Four Seasons has become my family's refuge.

LOCAL FOOD STARTUP HAVEN Rich Frank and his staff have a long tradition of supporting local food business efforts. As such, Four Seasons has become the go-to spot for the locavore. Just last year I started my own food business-”Johanna's Raw Foods” - which are now happily sold on the shelves and coolers of Four Seasons. Many local businesses from small-time vegetable growers and cottage style food processors to fresh bread bakeries and hand-made soap makers have had their start-up here with the help of Rich Frank. Karen Christensen of Mack Brook Farm in Argyle was one such food vendor. Looking for a receptive audience for her all grass-fed beef products, Four Seasons welcomed her with open arms. She stated, “The relationship we have with Rich and the team at Four Seasons is invaluable to our gaining a foothold in the local marketplace.”

Exposure at his store is like a micro-loan; it gets you to the next level and helps the community gain access to more and more awesome, green products and foods. In addition, Rich also volunteers at the Waldorf School of Saratoga Springs, presently serving as Chairman of the Board where he further connects to many others also working toward more sustainable, peaceful living methods for the planet.

Everything at Four Seasons is so conscious and conscientious; it's a pleasure to any and all folks looking for more sustainable living, for healthier meals or for natural treatments of ailments for selfhealing.

Four Seasons Natural Foods is located at 33 Phila Street in Saratoga Springs and online at fourseasonsnaturalfoods.com.

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WARM RECEPTIONS for Local Food in Cold Winter

By Julie Cushine-Rigg We may be in the depths of winter here in the Capital Region, but that's not to say that our sources for local food have gone cold along with the temperatures. No indeed - our farmers are still producing and Farmers Markets are still selling. So head out to one near you and discover their winter offerings, you may just be surprised.

Open now are the markets in Saratoga, Schenectady and Troy. Days and hours of operation are listed on their individual websites: saratogafarmersmarket.org, schenectadygreenmarket.org and troymarket.org.

“It's actually a great way to spend a cold winter day,” said Betsy Henry, chair of the Executive Board at Schenectady's Greenmarket.

Henry said that their recently expanded market now gives shoppers choices among not only produce, but prepared foods and some crafts.

In the cold storage crops arena you can expect to see onions, potatoes, apples garlic and radishes among others.

“Crop storage is really important in maintaining cool temperatures during the entire storage period. At home I store (things like) beets, carrots and turnips in bottom drawers of the refrigerator,” said Henry.

She also advises that items including squash, potatoes, onions and garlic don't need refrigeration and can go under sink or other cool dark space in your home.

Of course, seasonality is key to bear in mind when shopping the winter farmers markets, but many do have vendors who continue to grow crops associated with milder temperatures thanks to hoop houses and heated greenhouses. For example, Schenectady Greenmarket offers tomatoes grown in heated greenhouses by Shushan Valley Hydro Farm.

Market Manger Monica Kurzejeski of the Troy Farmers Market said, “We have actually a variety of greens still at market. With the growing seasons being extended and storage being improved upon it keeps us eating fresh just about year round.”

She added that their facebook page is the best place to find out what is going to be at market each week. “Generally we have greens, tomatoes and cucumbers (hydroponic), potatoes, garlic, squash, turnips, carrots, onions, celeriac, apples, cider, breads, desserts, cheese (goat, cow, and sheep), yogurt (both regular and Greek)…honey, syrup, vegan items, frozen foods/soups, fresh Belgium waffles…and so much more! I'm sure I'm forgetting something!”

Suzanne Voight of the Saratoga Farmers Market said that their list of goods is also extensive.

'Upstate farmers are amazing at what they can produce during our winters and advanced techniques allow for delicious fruit and root vegetables to be stored and sold throughout the winter. The amazing fact about this is our farmers are hardly using any fossil fuels to make this all happen. Hydroponics, solar power, soil banks and biodegradable covers in hoop houses keep growing crops from freezing. Knowledge of temperature ideals for root cellars is also paramount to bringing food throughout the winter,” said Voight So get out there and discover a local winter market for yourself - you'll love it.

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Doctor Franklin McCoy 30

HOMEOPATHY DOCTOR FRANKLIN MCCOY Most of mainstream medicine seems to be taking the approach of attacking the virus or bacteria versus helping build the immune system. Is it because that approach is more effective?

Allopathy - n. A method of treating diseases with remedies that produce effects different from those caused by the disease itself.

Homeopathy - n. A method of treating diseases with remedies that produce effects similar to those caused by the disease itself.

In general, allopathy seeks to fight the body's natural response system by attacking the symptoms of healing. Homeopathy, however, embraces the body's natural response system by either encouraging the symptoms of healing or attacking the root cause of the illness. Mainstream medicine, or allopathy, would have us take muscle relaxants for headaches and nasal decongestants for runny noses caused by the common cold. But these are merely treatments for the symptoms. The homeopath understands that a headache is a sign that something is wrong. Perhaps the sufferer has a low blood sugar and needs to eat something. Or maybe he or she would benefit from some exercise or a change of environment.

Doctor Franklin McCoy is one the few homeopaths in our region. Doctor McCoy

The terms holistic medicine, alternative medicine and have often been used interchangeably. In fact, holistic medicine is a term which tends to embrace the larger definition of a system of treatment and practitioners who do not work within the system of conventional medicine. A more precise definition of the term is that holism is a philosophy that believes in treating the whole person and in the integration of mind, body and spirit. Holism promotes the belief that these three elements of a human being must be treated together in order to achieve any notion of 'healing,' rather than simply treating a person for a specific illness or injury.

In the holistic belief system, illness and injury are often the result of disharmony in the mind-body-spirit, which they see as one.

The disharmony can often come about from a dysfunction in any one of these areas. But, holistic medicine believes that a dysfunction in one area affects the whole person and not just that one area of the body.

Holistic medicine is as much about a way of life as it is about medical treatment.

The holistic philosophy embraces an approach that promotes overall body wellness.

Holistic Doctors BUILDING A RELATIONSHIP TO ACHIEVE WELLNESS STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID DELOZIER

operates out of a small office in the back of his house located on the outskirts of Cambridge in Washington County. There's no waiting room, no receptionist - none of the typical entrapments of the modern doctors office. Here, the doctor will see you when you arrive. Doctor McCoy books just a few appointments each day. Each patient is given the time and respect to explain their malady and life situation. In the homeopathic tradition, Doctor McCoy believes in the concept of the 'constitution,' the notion that the body must be treated as a whole and that the right remedy would literally 'kick start' the immune system into healing itself at the most basic level. In this way, homeopathy would not treat disease, it would heal the body.

As a result of this belief, Doctor McCoy engages in a highly detailed discussion with every patient especially during the initial visit. He is concerned with everything, not just the physical symptoms occurring at the time. He wants to know about the person's emotions, their personal interactions, work life, stressors, dreams and anything else of importance in the person's life. He also takes into account the person's appearance, demeanor and body language. “In homeopathy, the treatment is based on the patient's individuality. It stimulates the body

to kill off the bacteria itself. So the problem with antibiotics is that we are weakening the immune system whereas with homeopathy, it is actually strengthened. So it's a completely different mindset. And a different affect on the body from ordinary medical treatment.�

Historical evidence suggests that power players, as early as the founding of the American Medical Association, have used the heavy hand of government to squelch homeopathic physicians. Regulations and licensure were used to stifle the growth of homeopathy by narrowly restricting which schools can produce new doctors and what their curriculum must teach. Today, students must endure roughly ten years of allopathic medicine education and testing before being allowed to practice homeopathy. After being taught for so long that homeopathy is akin to quackery is it any wonder so few aspiring doctors choose to practice homeopathic medicine?

To make matters worse insurance companies - another tightly regulated industry - do not cover homeopathic medicine. It is a problem, indeed, for patients who choose alternative medicine to mainstream medicine. However, so long as individuals may opt out of the corporate circle there exists a healthy market for homeopathy.

THE NEW MOM'S FAMILY PHYSICIAN DOCTOR JESSICA DAVIS Wellness and holistic health begin at birth. It is the perfect time to begin applying the concepts of holism, according to Doctor Jessica Davis.

Doctor Davis shares a waiting room with Schuyler Creek Chiropractic in Stillwater, at the Stewarts Plaza on Main Street. Like Doctor McCoy, she has a combination office and exam room. Here she consults with the family and their new bundle of joy. It's an exciting time for every family, the arrival of a new baby. It's also very stressful for the parents, so Doctor Davis likes to see the family as a whole unit. This way, she can see how they interact together. It's an important transition time, from being pregnant to now having a new baby to take care of. Prior to the birth, all the attention was on the expectant mother. Now after birth, the focus is on the baby. And where does dad fit into the equation? That's why Doctor Jessica see the whole family together. Wellness of the baby is dependent on the wellness of the parents too.

IT'S ALL ABOUT RELATIONSHIP To Doctor Davis, it's all about the relationship with the patient. As a new mom doctor, this is especially important. A new baby changes -continued on Page37

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Sustainable Agriculture COMES TO SUNY ADIRONDACK ANOTHER PARADIGM FOR TEACHING AND LEARNING STORY BY TRACY FRISCH I PHOTOGRAPHY BY HAROLD SHIPPEY

When students signed up for the very first sustainable agriculture class ever offered at SUNY Adirondack in Queensbury, they probably anticipated a conventional class about a novel subject. What they actually encountered could be changing their lives.

I've done it or how other people have done it. You need to find out what works for you because every person's situation is different."

While Woodcock is "smart, knowledgeable and has common sense," he doesn't make it easy.

Late in the semester I visited the class to see several students present their final projects. For their central assignment students were given the immensely personal task of crafting a plan for a farm of their own.

It had to reflect their particular quality of life goals and the resources available to them.

"Many of us were looking for recipes but Jared gave us the tools to find the information we needed for ourselves," said Debbie Bailey, who used to teach French at the college. She left that position over a decade ago to concentrate on growing cut flowers for farmers markets and weddings, formerly her sideline.

How often have you been asked to identify the values that you wish to inform your life? Did anyone ever give you the task of developing a vision for your future and making a plan to realize it?

By all accounts the class evolved into a supportive, interactive group.

When Woodcock told me that "no one ever rushed out of the class," I instantly believed him.

Without such opportunities, is it surprising that so many of us drift around rudderless, secretly yearning for a more fulfilling existence?

McGavin said the diversity of her classmates' backgrounds and interests led to "a lot of really great discussions." The ten-student class was the smallest she ever took, and her first "where every person participated."

Mallory McGavin, an aspiring 26-year-old farmer, experienced "one of those wow moments" when the instructor explained the importance of the quality of life goal. She said, "When I looked inward and realized what my passions and desires were, everything fell into place.

Just by following my dreams and making myself happy, I became more effective." She recommends that everyone consider developing such a goal of their own.

The class instructor is ecologist and farmer Jared Woodcock, who doesn't farm by the book, any book. Instead he thoughtfully applies ecological principles to accomplish objectives of his choosing, like improving the land and reducing outside inputs such as purchased feed or energy.

YOUNG INSTRUCTOR FACES CHALLENGES COMMON TO LANDLESS FARMERS Woodcock, who did his graduate work in ornithology, describes himself as a nerd intrigued by systems theory, that is, he seeks to understand phenomena by looking at the interactions among multiple factors. He grew up on his parents' homesteading experiment in White Creek, New York and did a stint managing the farm at Merck Forest and Farmland Center, an educational non-profit in Rupert, Vermont.

AN INSTRUCTOR WHO DOESN'T WANT TO ANSWER YOUR QUESTIONS His teaching won him accolades from students more than twice his age (he's 29) as well as traditional college-age students. They praised him for making them think and encouraging them to solve problems creatively.

The birth of their first child motivated Woodcock and his wife Shannon to settle down and start Taproots Farm. For two years they've been raising vegetables, pastured poultry for eggs and meat, rabbits and pigs on a small parcel of borrowed family land. In their quest for a larger, more suitable farm site, Woodcock stumbled upon a small guidebook entitled Whole Farm Planning put out by the Northeast Organic Farming Association. Impressed by its wisdom, he adopted it as the framework for his SUNY Adirondack course.

Hal Bain, a lifelong salesman who only took up farming a couple years ago, explained that, "Jared is so good because he doesn't answer your questions for you. He says there is no right or wrong answer. No matter what he's talking about, he gives you his opinion - this is how

Teaching the class has propelled Woodcock further toward his own dream. A year ago he and his wife had tried to negotiate a long-term contract with a generous, likeminded landowner who wants to give someone like them the opportunity to farm sustainably. Despite

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professor Dr. Tim Scherbatskoy. Since joining the faculty five years ago his quiet, steady leadership has brought new ecological initiatives into the curriculum and onto campus.

Previously Tim taught biology at the Waldorf School in Saratoga Springs, and as a professor at the University of Vermont where he spearheaded the Vermont Monitoring Cooperative, a consortium of scientists from 20 different institutions tracking ecological and environmental changes.

At SUNY Adirondack he serves as the faculty advisor for the Green Communities Club and as director of a non-academic program called the Sustainable Food Project, both of which he started. In 2011 he launched a 4-credit summer class called Sustainable Food to teach food literacy to "people who don't know where carrots come from." Besides learning about growing food, students in this lab course gain exposure to controversies at the heart of food and public policy choices, such as local vs. global, organic vs. chemical agriculture and genetically engineered food.

enormous goodwill, the two parties came to an impasse in their discussions.

But in class Woodcock counseled his students to seize the day when "opportunity comes knocking." In agriculture, he said, that isn't very often. "I took some advice I gave my students about multigenerational collaborations between non-farmers and farmers," he reported.

With this change of heart, the Woodcocks opted for a short-term lease on the new farm and will move there this spring. Instead of trying to work out all the issues in advance, they're going to let the arrangement with the landowner evolve.

ASKING QUESTIONS AS THE FOUNDATION FOR EDUCATION In order to save the planet, it's imperative that we give up businessas-usual and let go of outmoded ways of thinking. We're going to have to abandon our top-down approach to schooling and adopt a new pedagogy.

Woodcock, whose college-level teaching experience goes back to his undergraduate days, agrees. He estimates that during three-quarters of class time the students were teaching each other. Students liked the collaborative approach and it fits with Woodcock's self-defined role as an educator and moderator, rather than the expert. He recognizes that no one person can have expertise in all the different fields that sustainable agriculture involves.

"My theory is trying to empower people to answer their own questions," Woodcock declared.

McGavin elaborated. "Jared would really push us to start with larger questions." For example, she said if someone asked what breed of chicken would be best, he would encourage the student to go deeper.

Instead they might inquire about what chickens would bring to their farm or why they would want chickens in the first place.

HOW THE CLASS CAME TO BE Whenever anything innovative comes along, you can bet there's a champion behind it. In this case, the responsibility rests with biology 34

Introduction to Sustainable Agriculture, the next course in the sequence, is intended for people raising food commercially or seriously contemplating doing so. Tim would like it to be relevant to the members of the younger generation looking for ideas that could be useful for their family's farm as well as prospective and beginning farmers who don't come from a farm family. When he was thinking about the course, he met Woodcock by serendipity at a symposium for organic farmers and scientists held early last year and decided to consider him for the instructor.

Several years ago the college administration granted Scherbatskoy's request to use about a small portion of a 30-acre agricultural field.

Now he is overseeing the conversion of three acres of what had been a conventional alfalfa field to organic practices as well as the planting of a small orchard. There may also be room for a Permaculture demonstration and even community gardens.

Scherbatskoy assumed the program would need a tractor and other mechanical equipment, but Woodcock persuaded him to consider alternatives. The dairy farmer leasing the rest of the field has offered to till their land. And working the soil manually is more conducive to making observations. Woodcock's class planted 1,000 square feet of garlic by hand and broadcast some heirloom wheat.

FIELD TRIPS - HIGHLIGHT STUDENTS' STORIES During two of their labs, the class visited the farms of classmates closest to campus. Besides becoming acquainted with their agricultural accomplishments, these field trips allowed them to practice reading the landscape.

On the class's field trip to Hill Farm in Queensbury, everyone was amazed to discover an integrated Mother Earth News-type sustainable homestead. Classmate Russ Hilliard, a modest man of few words, hadn't prepared them for his Permaculture showcase.

The way he manages his two-acre property illustrates key regenerative agriculture principles. For instance, Hilliard has been able to build excellent soil fertility without spending money on costly organic soil amendments. For two decades he has enriched his land with the bounty of leaves he invites landscapers to dump for him. He also integrates a flock of hens into his gardens by moving them around in a mobile pen called a chicken tractor. They consume a lot of insects and spread their own droppings.

The other farm the class traveled to see belongs to Hal Bain, who after the forty-odd years in corporate sales, discovered he loves getting his "fingers dirty."

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Four years ago he and his partner Elizabeth bought ten acres next to their house with no intention of farming it. Its historic farm stand had a good following but in recent years it had languished.

At age 65, Bain changed his mind and took up vegetable and cut flower growing. Lacking in gardening know-how, he tapped a friend with horticultural experience to go in with him. They reopened the farm stand. In 2012 the farm grew on one acre and Bain worked three days on the farm and two at his old sales job. They put up a greenhouse and Bain picked up six restaurant accounts. This spring they're adding another greenhouse.

"Even last summer when it was 95 degrees and we're out picking beans, I'm in seventh heaven," he said.

The class, he said, gave him with "a much better appreciation of the earth" and of the need to enrich the soil "year after year." Now Bain is also thinking about more ways to "give back" to the community, like setting aside a few days for group homes and senior centers to come pick vegetables.

As a novice he took the class looking for information. He admits, "I expected to go into the class and the teacher would tell us what to do. After the first couple of classes, I told Elizabeth, I don't know if this is for me."

Before long, he had radically changed his assessment. "It was one of the most eyeopening, enthusiastic classes I've ever been in. I don't care if you've been farming thirty years or three days or don't want to farm," he said.

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NEXT STEPS For Hilliard, the class affirmed his path in agriculture. It also encouraged him in his desire to begin selling plant starts and vegetables to make some money. Getting to know other small-scale growers has been "a real boost" for him, he said. This welcome

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camaraderie is motivating him to work on forming a network with other interesting gardeners and farmers in his part of Warren County.

The class also forged intergenerational connections that can help new people gain experience. A few of the younger students are planning to team up with one of several older classmates to learn practical skills. They have invitations to "intern" or volunteer on their farms or use a plot of their land for a first garden.

As architect of the college's sustainable agriculture project, Scherbatskoy has been hearing a positive "buzz" from the administration and members of the faculty and staff. "They think this is the greatest thing . . . a real feather in the cap of the college," he said. He believes that within the SUNY system the only other colleges venturing into the new field of sustainable agriculture are four-year institutions.

According to Scherbatskoy, who also chairs the college's sustainability committee, the science division is considering a new associate degree program in Environmental Sustainability. This program would allow students to choose food and agriculture as their concentration.

One student who would have benefited is Mallory McGavin, who

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received her Associate's degree in January. She also started a fullyear internship with Paul and Sandy Arnold at Pleasant Valley Farm, a leading four-season organic operation in Argyle.

Previously McGavin had her sights set on teaching Special Ed, but she became disillusioned with the system. After she and her fiancĂŠ, a landscaper, moved to his Argyle homestead, she began gardening.

Her interest led her to volunteer in the college's organic vegetable gardens, which turned into employment. As her focus shifted she found relevant SUNY Adirondack courses and support.

McGavin plans eventually to set up a greenhouse and grow medicinal herbs. In the meantime she and her fiancĂŠ will reap farm income by growing an acre of produce "CSA-style" and selling their compost. Their chickens arrive in April, with pigs slated for year 3.

And she wants to give workshops, as she enjoys teaching.

"The class was awesome. I think we all felt that," McGavin said. "I really hope it is just the beginning," she added.

Contacts for further information: Sustainable food and agriculture at SUNY Adirondack: Tim Scherbatskoy, PhD, scherbatskoyt@sunyacc.edu, 518/743-2270.

Gardeners and small farmers network: Russ Hilliard, Hill Farm, Queensbury, russhillard@hotmail.com, 518/792-5760.

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Doctor Jessica Davis - Holistic Doctors continued from Page31

the dynamic of every family, no matter whether it's the first or fourth.

“Family interactions are fascinating, and it's what makes my role as a health coach very rewarding. So much of a traditional practice is intervening in times of crisis. Having built the relationships from a place of happiness and joy and growing together through their well child checks, and things like that, gives me the time to build that trust and take the time to share knowledge so that the parent’s can understand how I work and what my style is. It helps me grow and learn how to best help the parents deal with situations that come up.

If the baby gets sick, we have this relationship in place so that we can talk through the problem and not just react and grab the first medication that comes to mind. That level of trust is lost in a lot of practices where people don't feel like they've been listened to or they feel like they are just another number in the system.”

to a whole new world of options. She found solace in Chinese medicine and Eastern philosophy. That started her down the path of seeking other therapies like energy medicine and other holistic modalities. Not so much that she would do all of these things, but to have enough awareness so that she could refer the patient to the proper practitioner of chiropractic, or yoga, or to a diet or lifestyle specialist. “I look at the risks and benefits of any protocol, and discuss with the patients what will be best for their circumstance.”

Doctor Davis is of the same mind as homeopathy, knowing that the body can heal itself if given the proper immune system support. A lot of her consult is directed at diet and nutrition. She is a big advocate of eating local, nutrient dense and primarily plant based food.

Breast feeding is paramount to Doctor Davis. Mother's milk is exactly the right food for a baby. She advises both mom and dad to maximize this perfect food with the use of a breast pump so that the milk can be stored for use later when breast feeding directly cannot be done.

Doctor Davis' unique approach and style extend into her payment structure. She does not accept insurance, but instead sets up an ongoing payment plan somewhat like a membership program. During the patient consult, she discusses a strategy that will optimize preventive medicine and wellness care. Those who have insurance can simply get a reimbursement from their insurance company. By eliminating the insurance paper trail, Doctor Davis is able to greatly reduce the overhead of running a typical physician office, thus making her pay schedule accessible to just about everybody.

This alternative approach to medicine and medical practice is attracting the exact people who Doctor Davis wants in her practice.

Patients who find her are somewhat self selective - they've already made the decision to seek out holistic solutions in their life.

For more information about Doctor McCoy, go to homeopathic-md-do.com For more information about Doctor David, go to doctorjessicadavismd.com

NO TIME FOR CONVENTIONAL MEDICINE Doctor Davis’ training was the same as any traditional western doctor, but her interest changed shortly after she began her practice. I felt like I wasn't helping people enough. I had a prescription pad and only fifteen minutes to see each patient.”

She wanted more interaction. She found that the biggest help she was providing to people was the time to listen to them, and give them a hug and moral support. Western medicine wasn't everything she thought it would be. Or should be. “There's a place and a time for conventional medicine, but so much of it is in the end stage, when things are terribly wrong or broken. I was naturally drawn to the prevention and how do we keep people from getting to this point, and let's back up, and getting back to the cause of the problem, not just looking at the symptoms.”

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Eco-LOCAL People

Reed and Mary Antis Meet Reed and Mary Antis, owners and proprietors of The Saratoga Zymurgist

Meet Reed and Mary Antis, owners and proprietors of The Saratoga Zymurgist on Excelsior Avenue in Saratoga Springs.

Saratoga what? A “Zymurgist” is one who controls the art of fermentation.

And customers of the Zymurgist do just that, making beer and wine, vinegars and sodas.

The Saratoga Zymurgist is becoming a regional sensation, particularly after Reed and Mary more than doubled the size of their modest store last November.

The quintessential ma and pa business, the Antis’ have grown their enterprise from a side business of next door Eddy’s Beverage into a full-fledged dynamo of all things fermented. Reed’s extensive knowledge of beer brewing and willingness to share it with all who enter the door is the driver of this little brewer shop that could.

And Mary’s infectious wit and charm keeps the place bubbling over with good vibes and love. Beer and wine making is all the rage now. Stop by the Zymurgist and see why you’ll soon be saying, “Don’t worry, have a homebrew.”

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How long have you been in business and what inspired you to get started?

Two years plus. Reed loves beer!

What's the best part about your job?

The customer’s smiles.

Why do you choose to operate your business in Saratoga as opposed to somewhere else?

Just like Saratoga, we are a destination.

People are attracted to the many different shops for a variety of life styles and we are part of that variety.

Why do you think it’s important to keep it local?

People of tired of the cookie cutter stores and no variety. Every shop is unique and has wonderful things to offer.

What locally owned business (other than your own) could you not live without?

Sorrentino’s Market in South Glens Falls. They have the freshest meat, produce, deli items. I can get in and out quickly and they have excellent prices.

What are some of the things you do to help make the world a little bit better?

I am the Moreau Town Historian, and also

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volunteer at the South Glens Falls Village Museum. I love the local history! I also have been a Girl Scout Leader for 25 years.

What do you like to do in your free time?

In my free time I love to go Geo Caching.

What's the best advice you've ever received?

Keep it simple.

Our Facebook fans want to know: What is it that sets you apart and promotes loyal, repeat business?

Treat every customer as a person. No matter if they spend a penny or hundreds of dollars.

The most important thing is Education. Make sure the customer knows how to do whatever they are trying to do before they leave the store. Let them know if they have any questions to call, email or return for an answer.

Our Twitter followers want to know: What drives you to keep doing what you do?

All the success our customers have. When a customer comes in after a first time brew or wine making and says we did it and everyone we shared with enjoyed it too & can’t wait to make another batch.

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