What does "eat local" mean? And does it matter?

As noted in the NY Times, Frito-Lay is jumping on the "eat local" feed wagon and creating ads that feature potato farmers from the states where the company produces potato chips.  Hmm. Does that support the spirit behind local eating?  Does it matter?

What's so great about eating locally?

The folks behind the 100-mile diet list 12 reasons to eat locally, including better taste, knowing where your food comes from, being healthy, and supporting the local economy.  

How? The 100-mile dieters suggest starting out small, by planning one meal with friends and celebrating food grown nearby.

100 miles from Ithaca?  Where is that?!  Here are a few reference points:

Ithaca to Buffalo- 150 miles

Ithaca to Watertown- 130 miles

Ithaca to Albany- 190 miles

Ithaca to New York- 230 miles

Ithaca to Scranton, PA- 110 miles