In defense of the Great Morgani’s downtown artistry
’Stached Away
Re: “That Darned Accordion” (Currents, Feb. 26): If ordinances are needed, they should be clearly worded about the intent, include everyone equally, be enforceable and be enforced. Street performers give Santa Cruz an identity, especially the Great Morgani. He is a very unique artist, and a loved icon and ambassador for the city.
Heinz Trilck
Santa Cruz
How He Rolls
Re: “Burrito Power Rankings” (Food & Drink, Feb. 19): Jacob, I very much appreciated your burrito power rankings article, and remembered your submission from the previous year.
Burrito ranking is a thankless job, because every person has their own favorite place. It's kind of like ranking sushi!
I will admit though, your rankings seem genuine, and you clearly care about the subject. One thing I would add to your review next year would be to perhaps rate the various aspects of a taqueria in parts, leading to a total score. Some taquerias may excel at certain elements, while totally failing others. In the end, the best taquerias must shine in all areas.
As a few examples, the way I size up any taqueria is to look at several things. Keep in mind, this is my list, I am sure you have your own:
A) The food itself, is it flavorful, quality, and just good in that taqueria sort of way?
B) The quality and setup of the salsa bar. For example, is the salsa good? Is it too chunky, runny, or just right?
C) Is there Tapatio on each table? This is a must, without it, the taqueria is immediately disqualified.
D) Are there more folks of Latino origin eating in the taqueria than non-Latino? This matters.
E) First try the carnitas burrito, then move onto other options like carne asada, chicken, el pastor, veggie, etc. The true test of a good burrito, or good Mexican restaurant in general, is the quality of the carnitas (sorry veggie fans).
Happy burritoing!
Josh Blick
Santa Cruz
KFAT Tribute
Mary McCaslin here. Greg and I were extremely sad to hear of the passing of beloved former KFAT DJ Terrell Lynn Thomas.
I am hoping that some sort of tribute will be put together for him—he was a very nice guy. (I am not saying this so I can sing “Old Friends” again, but I would like to dedicate it to him.)
If anyone hears of an event for Terrell Lynn, please let us know. Take care of yourselves and your loved ones.
Mary McCaslin
Santa Cruz
From The Web
Fur Sure
Re: “Dog Hunt” (Cover, Feb. 26): I'm so proud of Tim for getting his dog back. I've known him for a very long time, before any of his problems with drugs. He's always been one of the nicest people I know, though not always the smartest. He's made bad decisions and lost some friends because of it. But isn't that why people love dogs? Dogs won't give up on you no matter how much you mess up. When I was having similar problems, it was my pets that kept me fighting, kept me working to make my life better. It's too easy to give up on yourself if everybody else does. But Tim never gave up on Johanne, and I know that Johanne never gave up on him either. I never thought he would get his dog back. I really didn't, but I underestimated my friend. I'm so happy for him, and I know he'll be okay now. Or I'll come back to San Jose and kick his butt for him!
Karen
