A weekly series, in which I tackle a Q from a reader looking for green advice.
Question: Hey Siel, I was just wondering if you have any suggestions or references, favorite blogs or well, just about anything, in NYC. I’ve just moved to ‘the city and would really appreciate having something like your blog with all the check out these cool green things and goings on.
I know there is so much going on here but i’m having trouble tapping into it. I’m not used to big city life, and am finding it sorta overwhelming — mostly because i’m coming from [edited] where you couldn’t help but stumble upon progressives taking action and talking about issues.
sorry to be spilling my guts, but you’ve come very hightly recommended …. anyway any suggestions you have would be great and keep up the good work (i don’t mean that to sound patronizing, really, your blog is an fantastic resource and great sounding board)
thanks! carrie [slightly edited by Siel to remove personal info]
Answer: carrie — Thanks for the warm words! I actually lived in the big apple for 6 months or so back in 1999. It’s the most wonderful place to feel lonely –
But to address your Q — Yes! I can definitely give you some suggestions! Let’s start with the blogs. My fave NY blog by far is The Worsted Witch, aka Jasmin — and not just cuz we have a lotta things in common! This gal will put you in touch with the fair trade community and enviro events and resources in NYC. I believe Jasmin actually lives in Brooklyn, but Brooklyn’s the new Soho. Or Nolita. Whatev.
Other NYC blogs you might check out: The brand spankin’ new WorldChanging New York, the eco-store 3r Living’s blog, or Felicia C. Sullivan‘s eco-yoga blog :).
As a NY newbie, you’ll prolly find your niche most quickly by hanging out with other cool green NYC peeps. To that end, you might consider joining the New York City Fair Trade Coalition. You might hang out at some cool fair trade cafes in your area. You might make it a lil project to check out a new local bookstore every week. Or you might email Jasmin for some more suggestions :)
And during those times when you inevitably feel lonely in the city — which’ll happen even after one’s settled in — know that NYC’s the BEST place to do stuff by yourself. I’ve been in no other place where you see so many gals at restaurants, at parks, at social events — alone (or with self). There is pleasure too in loneliness –
Nostalgically,
Siel
A few more NYC resources…
For vegan/veggies, or good eating in general:
“Welcome to SuperVegan, a shockingly ambitious website made by vegans for vegans. Check out our New York City vegan restaurant guide and our vegan web directory, as well as our vegan blog, right here on this page” http://www.supervegan.com/
A few good publications:
* Satya: A Magazine of Vegetarianism, Environmentalism, and Animal Advocacy.
http://www.satyamag.com/
* Plenty Magazine: Environmental News and Commentary. “The leading magazine for eco living, offering a fun, irreverent look at today’s environmental news and issues.”
http://www.plentymag.com/
Comment by EcoLarry — December 17, 2006 @ 3:53 pm
Appreciate the outdoors:
http://www.nycgovparks.org/
Especially the natural areas:
http://nycgovparks.org/sub_about/parks_divisions/nrg/brochures/pages/frontpage.html
NYC Has one of the best park systems of any city in the world, and wilderness is far more accessible here than most people realize!
Comment by Rafi — December 17, 2006 @ 7:03 pm
Actually I work in Manhattan, but live in Jersey City (which, according to New York Magazine is the new Williamsburg).
Comment by Jasmin — December 17, 2006 @ 7:29 pm
When you say NYC i am assuming you mean Manhattan. I have lived in Queens, NY all my life. One of the best places to meet people is go food shopping. You have your well known Whole Foods, but i would recommend a place called Fairway the selection and quality, is insane. Of course you also have your Union Square Farmers market. Some great local produce. Hit these places up and you will meet tons of people who will be more than happy to help you out with local green adventures.
Comment by Adam — December 17, 2006 @ 10:00 pm
Thanks for the tips guys! while i do now work in manhattan, I’m actually living in brooklyn, where, hands down, Prospect Park is one of the most perfect parks (from my limited experience). But I have to tell you Adam, whole foods, while it may have afantastic selection, it’s a supremely frustrating grocery store, as is trader joe’s at any normal hour–they are just totally packed and nobody wants to have anything to do with you. For now i’ll continue my search of perfect groceries, and book stores, and other sweet things that will make nyc feel more like my own.
Comment by carrie — December 18, 2006 @ 5:38 pm
Carrie,
Welcome to Brooklyn! I’m right near you and I too adore the Park.
I will warn you against the Park Slope Food COOP. I was a member for a few months and it’s not worth it. I shop at the Saturday farmer’s market near the library or in Union Square. You get great, affordable local produce.
Whole Foods is pretty decent early in the AM. There are also some great local markets in the East Village – there’s one on Orchard Street. And I believe there is an EV Food Coop in the works.
Fairway also opened up (although I haven’t been to it) in Red Hook, I think. You migt want to check that out.
Welcome to NYC!
Cheers, Felicia
Comment by felicia — December 19, 2006 @ 6:44 pm