Mailbox

  Vegging Out Linnea Covington’s story on the rise and fall of New York vegetarianism (“Flesh Mob,” Jan. 13-19) had meat eaters and herbivores alike sinking their teeth into it. Elaine Sloan from Manhattan wrote, “I’m one long-time vegan who will never eat meat, eggs, or dairy products again. It’s simply unethical to raise and kill animals for food—and nothing is going to change that. Going vegan helped me beat breast cancer, too, so I’d be foolish to go back. Fortunately, there are tons of vegan-friendly stores and restaurants in Manhattan, including my favorites, Candle 79 and Candle Cafe. Judging from the crowds at all the vegetarian restaurants I frequent, plenty of people are eager for tasty vegan meals.” Someone named “Moose” wrote that, “It’s interesting to note the trends in favor of, or not in favor of, eating meat. It’s also interesting to note how the trend is exhibited in NYC, which is not typically thought of as being close to the land when it comes to food trends. I may live in farm country, but I still can’t raise an animal then kill it and eat it. But I’ll buy a package of meat at the store. Go figger. Anyway, thanks for a well-written article.” And web commenter M&M wrote, “Great story. I’m dying for a steak.”

Mouse in the House

After Josh Bernstein asked readers to share their tips for getting rid of unwanted vermin, a slew of advice poured in. Leslie Baum wrote, “I find that peanut butter or almond butter works best. The lil’ bastards love it and it is sticky enough that they have to work to get it all and assures a quick kill. Enjoyed your story—might help to tap it on the head with a rubber mallet. Less blood and mess.” But Wayne Johnson from Brooklyn asked, “Why kill them? There are ‘have a heart’ traps at many hardware stores [that are] inexpensive and humane. Release them outside.

These creatures want to live as much as you and I.”