Welcome to the new year and to the new possibilities it may bring.

The tumultuous year that was 2008 has left many of us wondering if the world as we know it has all but collapsed.  What is really happening is we are in the midst of a paradigm shift – a breaking down of an old way that no longer works, transcending into a new realm not yet defined.  This new way is the hope for long term survival on this planet we call home.  Call it the “Sustainability Movement,” or the “Living, Local Economy,” it is the grassroots mobilization of individuals making personal changes to live a more harmonious life within their communities. It is a trend that can be summed up in one word…REAL…as in real value; real food; real community; real people.  It is a desire to live within our means, accepting responsibility for both personal as well as planetary health, and reconnecting with the people ands places of our community to become agents of transformation.

One such agent of transformation is famed New York City chef Survir Saran. Stacey Morris caught up with Survir at Red Fox books in Glens Falls at the release of his latest cook book, American Masala.  Chef Saran shares some insight about real Indian food and his local farm in Washington County.  It’s inspiring to see that our local farms are providing the ingredients for some world class cooking.

Of course, many of us already know this, attributing to the popularity of our Farmer’s Markets.  But what is a Localvore to do in the wintertime?  Sustainable nutrition counselor Mary Beth McCue gives us some advice on how to maintain the local food connection even when the ground is frozen.  Now is the time to fire up that crock pot and enjoy some real comfort food.  This is also the time of year when cabin fever can set in, so it is a good idea to take on a winter sport to ward off the winter blues.  The new “Up and Out” column by Roger Fulton suggests a nearby adventure that can lift your spirits, and your heart rate.  Another heart rate stimulator is Valentines’ Day, the top day for popping the big question.

If you are planning on marriage this year, perhaps you’ll consider a ‘green’ wedding.  I discussed this option with Kate Harrison, author of the “Green Bride Guide,” and she shares a few tips on how to plan your big day with a small footprint.  And speaking of a small foot print, one local couple has built their love nest to be powered by the sun and wind. But it’s winter, right? And what happens when the sun doesn’t shine? Contributing writer Stacey Allen takes a closer look at what it’s like to live un-plugged.  The Ecolocal Guide brings you these stories and more in the months to come, to help you navigate through this new life of sustainable possibilities.

This is a journey we make together, and with each other’s help, we will share in the bounty in what lies ahead. To assist in this endeavor, think local first.  Buy local, eat local, play local…be Ecolocal!

IN THIS ISSUE

WINTER LOCALVORE - Eating Green When the Ground is White

Nice Year For a Green Wedding

OFF GRID LOVE AFFAIR

COZY UP YOUR HOME

FROM INDIA, WITH LOVE - An Interview With Suvir Saran

Articles can be viewed at Saratoga.com/ecolocal