Here Comes the Judge

Theft, assault, rape, kidnap and murder are common occurrences along the border with Mexico, and we are "morons" because we don't turn a blind eye and ignore it? "Joe" has a rather skewed version of fact. Or perhaps he chooses to ignore them.

His reluctance to "come out" in the open is more likely a fear of being confronted by truth than an issue of protecting his family. He tries to make himself appear macho when in fact he is a coward. Liar would probably fit his character as well. He really has nothing to fear except exposure as a con man.

I will tell you who I am. I won't hide. I am one of the "morons" from whom "Joe" is hiding. In truth all "Joe" has to fear from me and others in our group is the light we will shine on his cowardice.

David Cheney

Northern Arizona Coordinator for Ranch Rescue

Talent Show

Badu to the bone: I am writing in response to your article about the arrival of Erykah Badu into Phoenix ("Rollin'," Christopher O'Connor, January 16). We were lucky to have her grace our city and I was disgusted to read such a muddy review of her, her fellow musicians and her music. Have you ever really experienced a concert of Ms. Badu's? Probably not, because if you had, you would know that her stage performances are brilliant. The rare moments I have been lucky enough to see her she lights up the room with sultry notes, improv, DJing and keyboard playing, and pays homage to old-school rap artists with a twist of her very own. She speaks with her heart in a nonthreatening manner and excites the crowd, because she cares. I have been to many concerts and would put her in the top five of the 35 or so of my concert experiences.

Oh, and to speak negatively about Common, Jill Scott, and D'Angelo? That's just wrong, and I highly advise you to pick up Like Water for Chocolate, Mama's Gun, and Jill Scott's debut album, which is wonderful. As you write about musical artists, try to learn a bit about music before you criticize such rare and unique musicians.

By the way, did you even know that Cody Chestnut was at the concert? You didn't mention him, which in my opinion shouldn't have been overlooked in your article.

Tracy Wells
Via e-mail