Pine needles
In regards to the article “How green is your evergreen?” [Fishbowl, December 9], I feel a need to respond to a perceived negative association by way of proximity to Ivy Corner’s advertisement for “fresh Fraser fir Christmas trees.” Firstly, because Ivy Corner hand selects almost all of its trees, Christmas or otherwise, we by necessity only deal with small family-type growers. I personally have relationships with these owners and for years have seen the successful careers and fine lives their businesses and religious faiths have provided for their immigrant workforces.
Secondly, I think this article more accurately points to the seemingly pervasive business practices of “save or make money at any expense,” whether it be agriculture’s not paying overtime or “loss leader”-style promotions by giant retailers at the expense of family businesses and the small-town way of life. In fact, it should not be news that taking advantage of any money-making/money-saving practice seems to be the present state of the American dream, slightly removed from the very few things that really seem to matter in life. Perhaps because it is Christmas, the only news worth consideration is the good news of family, love and forgiveness.
William Vlasis
Owner
Ivy Corner Garden Center