Families urged to enjoy, value wonders of wilderness
In response to the Chattanooga Times commentary, “Celebrating America’s Wilderness” in the Oct. 6 edition, I am proud to know that not all families have given into the corporate gimmick provided by the entertainment industry.
My parents never liked crowds, and for so long I was angry at them for not providing me the ideal vacation in the world of Disney.
So many kids live their lives behind tablet and iPhone screens, and I appreciate that someone realizes that you can’t put a filter on God’s great wilderness. There are some sights that cameras can’t justify. I’m glad there are families still making time to instill a sense of pride in nature in their children.
MEGAN MONTGOMERY
Ebola spending out of whack to health threat
U.S., state and municipal health authorities are working overtime and spending millions of dollars to stem the spread of Ebola, which has killed just one person here. Where is the comparable effort to stem the spread of heart disease, stroke, cancer, diabetes and other chronic diseases that kill 1.4 million Americans annually and are linked conclusively to excessive consumption of animal products? According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, that’s 23 times the number killed by all infectious diseases combined, including AIDS, hepatitis, blood poisoning and intestinal infections! Apparently, our society tolerates this massive assault on our public health because meat, dairy and egg products have powerful champions in Congress. Bacteria and viruses have none. Yet, each of us can take personal responsibility for our own and our family’s health by reducing, then dropping animal products from our menu. Fresh vegetables, fruits, legumes and whole grains contain all the nutrients our body requires and are touted by leading health authorities. Lots of websites provide helpful transition tips.