With fuel prices at an all-time high and no evidence that they will decrease significantly any time soon, it is wise for anyone who has the ability to begin growing some of their own food and seeking out local fish, vegetables and other markets which offer foodstuffs caught and or grown locally. By doing so, one is less dependent upon the high cost of transportation. Additionally, there is less associated pollution of the environment with CO2 (lowered carbon footprint).
As the larger economy becomes more affected by deteriorating economic conditions, local efforts become more important and efficient. It is critical that we all try to ban together in neighborhood and regional cooperatives and other vehicles through which private assistance can be provided--as federal funds to states and localities have been significantly curtailed. This may not change irrespective of the results of election 2008.
Many people are unaccustomed to looking for local providers who can supply staples at least exclusively or nearly so. It is surprising what can be accomplished and at very reasonable cost if only a little additional effort is expended especially during the summer months when fruit and vegetable stands are plentiful throughout much of the country. Start by avoiding Wal Mart if at all possible and rewarding local producers/manufactures of goods by frequenting their establishments--all those who can catch their own fish or grow their own food should definitely do so, and of course avoid eating large amounts of high cholesterol foods like shrimp and other shell fish.
--Dr. J. P. Hubert
