Planet Organic


U.C. Berkeley’s molecular biologist Kathleen Collins said she’d move if she lived near a field where methyl iodide was applied (“The controversial fumigant methyl iodide may soon be applied to local fields,” March 10-16). That’s not possible for many people. And we can’t all jump Spaceship Earth to escape every introduction of another toxin. Instead, gotta put your foot down, stand your ground.


My dad kept farming organically in Illinois 50 years ago because, when the chemical guys came to sell him poisons, he looked to his elder neighbor – who shook his head no. Both continued farming successfully, organically (though they’d have chuckled at the term).


Here on the Central Coast, Swanton Berry Farms has been feeding us luscious, organically grown strawberries for 27 years – and there are now lots of organic growers producing so many beautiful strawberries that it’s hard to choose at our farmers markets! I’d love to see the Weekly do a story highlighting these and other organic growers who earn a living by feeding us great strawberries without any need for toxic “help.”


And for those who say, “Can’t do it large scale,” as a farmer’s daughter, I don’t buy that. If you convince me it’s true in this case, then here’s my reply: I’d be glad to eat half as many organically grown berries – for more than I pay now – and get healthy babies, pure water, and peace of mind included in the price. Much better bargain than paying the long-term price of a toxic fumigant. Mari | via Web


Fallout Fears


Iodide will not protect anyone from nuclear fallout (“Radiation fears spur potassium iodide rush,” March 17-23). This is a conspiracy to stimulate Big Pharma profits. Roy Jordan | via Facebook


Best of the Best


Thank you for awarding us, Boys & Girls Clubs of Monterey County, the “Best Place to Not Worry About Your Pre-Teen” Editors’ Pick (“The winners of the annual readers poll provide perspective on being the best,” March 17-23). It’s a real honor and our Facebook fans agree. Robert Mendoza | Seaside


(Note: Mr. Mendoza is the marketing manager at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Monterey County.)


The Deer Ate My Flowers


I have just discovered what you inserted in your commentary entitled “Our New Besties” (“Breaking down what makes the best, the best,” March 17-23). My wonderful wife truly “plays fully and loves deeply,” which is a consistent expression of her best self. What happened to get into print is more about her than anything else. Thank you for honoring her! And I appreciate your playfulness. Oh yes, and I’m relieved to not be in the BEASTIES category.


Also, I rushed out to our flower garden only to find that the deer had visited it first, so it will be breakfast in bed tomorrow morning. Brian George | Pacific Grove


(Note: Mr. George was nominated as a write in for “Best Husband” in the Weekly’s 21st Annual “The Best of Monterey County” poll.)


Whither, Starbucks


I was happy to see it didn’t win for “Best Coffee” or “Best Coffeehouse,” but it’s still sad to see Starbucks make anyone’s list of favorite anything (“The winners of the annual readers poll provide perspective on being the best,” March 17-23). AviL | Seaside


Squid Sonnet


Squid! You sexy slippery little cephalopod you. Your covert way and sly banter are right up our alley (“Squid Fry,” March 17-23). I come to offer you a role in my new new movie for 2012 called The CRAGS (thecrags.com), as we travel the world’s oceans looking for the world’s wealthiest man who has disappeared without a trace.


We need your sly musings and could use your dark silky ink to help protect us from the sharks of Hollywood. Please accept my official offer to audition for a speaking role and a guaranteed spot as an extra in our next movie. After almost killing me and our crew with your pernicious humor, we have decided to adopt all things “Squid” and pimp you out to the world. Lawrence Roeck and Carlos de los Rios | via Web


(Note: Messrs. Roeck and de los Rios are the director and writer, respectively, of the film Carmel-by-the-Sea.)