Local food works to improve the community and the economy. We did not experience any issues with harmful pathogens in these environments. We would benefit greatly as a country by inspiring similar food systems across the United States.

It’s a schlepp for me to go in, but it’s near several other businesses that I like to patronize.

Produce, meat, milk, bulk grains, pastas, spices and herbs, packaged crunchy-earthy stuff, juice bar and vegetarian buffet.

Not a new thing.

It would look like RetailRelay.com, an ONLINE market that offers direct-from-the-farm produce, meat, and cheese from farms in the Charlottesville, VA area (including Polyface) right along side conventionally-grown and distributed groceries, specialty foods, and prepared foods from local businesses. (Yes, I work for them.)

The result is an outside-of-the-farmers-market-box that meets the Salatin requirements of “diversified buying options to customers… a truly transparent, localized one-stop shop…” This model can do everything Walmart can without the compromising downsides.

Whatever you do, don’t let Joel Salatin get away. I certainly don’t agree with him on some subjects, but he’s the kind of guy we need to hear from more often. His connection with the real world [as opposed to the foodie-weekender world usually represented in these kind of magazines] is so refreshing and needed. Here’s a thinker and problem solver who can’t be fit into any box. It’s people like him who could possibly save the world [or a small corner of it].

I’m looking forward to the next issue and reading more of what Joel has to say.

Thanks for your patience.