As the (financial) world crumbles around us, we seek a haven, a redoubt of serenity and security. That would be our abode. To honor that sanctuary, Isthmus presents the fall edition of our twice-annual supplement Abode, for those who take their living circumstances seriously.
As we get more and more ecology-conscious about our homes, industry and society in general respond with more products and processes that seek to be kinder to the environment. Did you know that you could get an energy meter from the library to help you check the efficiency of your home appliances? Well, you can, as editor Linda Falkenstein informs in Emphasis, a collection of short items highlighting innovative products for your house (or garage).
Check out the MGE-sponsored Green Home in the section's centerfold. It features local purveyors that can help your home achieve greater energy efficiency and a cozier feel.
As we continue to pave over the planet, we continue to compound the water issues of storm-sewer runoff and parched soil. Dana Slowiak informs us of the increasing variety of permeable surfaces that replace the heretofore-standard concrete solution. And how about green in assorted colors? James T. Spartz identifies the newer, less toxic lines of paint that greatly diminish or eliminate the volatile organic compounds that make the substance hazardous to your health.
In the end, what's more comforting than apple pie? Ann Levihn consults some pie experts and gathers some recipes for the quintessential American dessert. The Lehman brothers may have let you down, but Johnny Appleseed never did.
For our cover story in the regular paper, we continue with the twin themes of comfort and environmental awareness. This weekend marks the tenth rendition of the Food for Thought Fest. Contributor Mary Bergin gives us a history of the REAP Food Group, a local organization of food activists that instituted Food for Thought as an annual event. The group promotes local and sustainable food practices through the Fest and many other activities and has been riding the wave of interest in the integrity of our eating and growing practices nationwide. The Fest occurs Friday and Saturday (Sept. 19 and 20). Isthmus is among the sponsors and our staffer Kenneth Burns moderates one of the sessions. See the story and sidebar on pages 10-12 for more information on REAP and Food for Thought.