Just had a good conversation in the office concerning winter markets and why we need more of them around Boston. So, I am a resident of Somerville and the city has recently launched a winter market on Saturdays happening at the Armory. There you have it! A fork, some maple syrup, a bottle of wine, some fresh fish, some vegetables, fresh baked pies and breads, don’t know if you can actually buy a pitchfork there, but you get the point. They have all you need and its a great thing to do to get out of the house on that lazy Saturday. Don’t make it lazier by getting into your car. It is a great central location for all Somerville residents. I, like you might have already guessed, ride my bike. In fact, it is encouraged to bike or walk because it is so popular, its hard to find anywhere to park. Instead of sending your money to the machines that I previously ranted about, give it to someone you can get to know and care about. Support the people around you and they will hopefully start doing the same. I haven’t met a farmer I didn’t respect. You can find out all about it here. So… what is all this saying? People love local food, they like to get out and have something to do in their community and its what I call a win-win situation. In similar news, you should think about getting involved and/or supporting the Boston Public Market Association. They are in need of a final public push of support to make a year-round indoor public market a reality. This would be a permanent spot for local producers to sell their goods to the urban community and show those tourists what we’re made of. What is there to dislike? I’ve never heard someone say they prefer imported old food packed with artificial ingredients. These markets are a great place to showcase everything… more than just food you know. In other great news to you locals! The farms are starting to sign new members up for CSA shares for 2011. What does that mean? Fresh food from our local farms to you! There are plenty of options out there for you to choose from and we would be happy to make it easy on you by delivering your share to your doorstep by bicycle! Its what we do. So you can find out all about Red Fire Farm, Enterprise Farm, Farmer Dave’s, Cape Ann Fresh Catch, Austin Brothers Farm, and Farmers to You through our website or theirs. Eat their food, breathe our clean air and as always… ride safe. It was a beautiful day out there and its not over yet. Headed out to deliver some fresh caught fish, some books and a case of wine. All in a day’s work.