Kudos and complaints

Kudos to Josh Kelly, whose letter regarding the Brushy Ridge Project (North Mills River area) land-use plan appeared in your July 1 issue. Kelly's summary of a local environmental concern was well researched, concise and effective. He gave the reader a brief explanation of a situation of concern and directed the reader to where to obtain further information.

Kelly's work in protecting local-forest ecosystems is extensive and commendable, and much more deserving of print in the Mountain Xpress than Stewart David's lengthy, rambling bitch session about nonvegetarians [Commentary, "Greenwashed," July 1 Xpress]. Frankly, David's essay seemed to be little more than an extensive attempt at justifying his personal extremism (going from eating meat three meals a day to becoming a judgmental vegan). David's blatant lack of respect for nonvegetarians, particularly local meat farmers who are working to produce a healthy local food economy, is petty, self-righteous and unworthy of a whole page in your paper.

Localizing our diet is a huge step in the right direction in regards to our environmental crisis. It should be celebrated as such and supported, not criticized. I am proud of the local-food movement in Western North Carolina and commend the farmers who work very hard in order to offer food to me and other consumers, both meat eaters and vegetarians.

— Dana Nagle
Shelton Laurel