Erastes Cinaedi
Phoenix
After reading the February 5 issue of New Times, I have to wonder why it persists in championing the lackluster and ignominious individuals of our society.
First of all, an article about a trash-picker masquerading as an artist? Why not an article about the artist (Ed Mell) upon whose very shoulders and reputation this hack is climbing in his vain attempt to achieve his 15 seconds of fame? As a person who makes a living creating things, I find this article insulting.
Second: another trite missive on capital punishment ("Curtains for Ceja," Barry Graham). Oh, boo hoo, another murderer put to death. Darn. Hey, here's an idea that doesn't receive much press: How 'bout an article on all the victims and families of victims whose lives are now a never-ending hell because of the senseless acts of criminals? Maybe if gutless, whining journalists would dispense with glorifying the criminal element and instead focus on the victims of crime, thereby not giving the criminals what they so desperately yearn for (attention, publicity--vindication), possibly then crime would lose some of its allure. But what else can one expect from a writer who himself has committed crimes in his own heart and mind?
Let us not glorify the negatives in society, but instead publicize and focus on those individuals actually committing positive acts.
Or should I brace myself for this future New Times article: "Jerry Springer Deserves Pulitzer for Excellence in Broadcasting"?
Oh, by the way, thanks for the article on local legend Bruce Connole (Soundcheck, February 5). Hell, one outta three ain't bad, huh?
K.J.
Phoenix
Editor's note: Four points of clarification: 1. New Times' database for this decade alone shows 10 different stories in which Ed Mell was featured. 2. There is no Pulitzer for Excellence in Broadcasting, you ignorant pus-head. 3. "Gutless" journalists never sign what we write with mere initials, as you do. 4. We have on good authority, K.J., that you have committed crimes in your heart and mind and against the English language.
Raging Bill
Barry Graham's "Sick Willie" column of Clinton's purported conduct (January 29) implies that the president suffers from PMS: Personal Morality Standing.
Lloyd Clark
Phoenix
Bravo to Barry Graham for exposing the true William Jefferson Clinton. I cannot begin to fathom mainstream belief that Clinton's sexual escapades have nothing to do with his ability to lead this country. His actions are damaging the credibility of America on the foreign front. I'd be willing to bet that leaders worldwide are laughing at the USA, especially the ones who already deem us "the decadent society." When I was in the military, certain individuals (like officers) were expected to uphold themselves to higher moral standards, even in immoral situations. I guess this train of thought does not apply to the commander in chief of the armed forces.
If you get caught with your hand in the cookie jar, you own up to it. Simple. Do the people on Capitol Hill think we are really that stupid? And if a man will repeatedly screw around on his wife, what do you think he's doing to us behind our backs? Think about it.
Frank Carrano
Mesa
Way to go, Barry Graham! I wish his article could be read on prime-time TV.
Bob Franklin
Mesa
For Love of Pete
I want to congratulate New Times on Dale Baich's excellent article on Big Pete Pearson ("Goin' Fishin'," January 22). Unfortunately, I discovered two small oversights.
I am the newest member of the Blues Sevilles; however, it was not mentioned that I am the bassist. Also (and this one is actually more important to me), I played almost two years in Phoenix's own 22-years-strong Midnite Blues band, led by Jimmy Peyton, who has been a friend and mentor. Peyton is an inductee in the Blues Hall of Fame. The Midnite Blues is the best swinging Chicago-style blues band in town, and without it I wouldn't be the player I am today. My deepest respects go to Jimmy Peyton.
Kati Ingino
Tempe
I really enjoyed New Times' story on Big Pete Pearson. We lived in Arizona for 13 years and did MFAs at Arizona State University. We followed Pete around and loved his music lots. There was a place in Tempe--Tony's Pizza--and also there was, in l977 or so, a place in downtown Phoenix off Washington, I believe, a Black and Tan club with blues and jazz. Anyway, I still see Pete and his snifter, blazing away. I'd like to share with Pete that his music touched us!
Felice Data
Fairfax, California
Dale Baich's article on Big Pete Pearson was written very well. As a Big Pete fan for many years, I feel that this article did an excellent job of grasping the Big Pete essence and a remarkable feel for what the business of the blues is about!
Bob
via Internet
