40th, Sept. 10: “Reality Bites”
Dishonest Portrayal
It is shameful that SFR republished a story that The Commons cohousing community does not work. It was inaccurate in 2001 and even more so now. Today, 13 and a half years later, The Commons is still a vibrant, supportive community with people of all ages and backgrounds. Gratitude and appreciation for each other is genuine. Expressing kudos is even an agenda item at every formal monthly meeting. Anyone lucky enough to join us for a meal, festivity or just a tour will attest to the beauty of our grounds and the warmth between neighbors. Anyone who has interacted with our children realizes that community fosters healthy growth and concern about the environment.
Yes, as in any community there are conflicts, but there is an underlying trust and a desire to resolve issues peacefully. As residents for 20 years, we can report honestly that love and respect is why The Commons works.
Ellen Kemper, Marion Seymour
Santa Fe
Food, Sept. 10: “Beer Me”
I Object
Huh. The Chiang Mai sausage is one of my favorite dishes at Fire & Hops—next to the poutine, of course. The Chiang Mai dish is surprisingly and wonderfully flavorful. I would highly recommend giving it a try.
Adam Warniment
SFReporter.com
Blue Corn, Sept. 10: “Getting Our Just Desserts”
PSA Time
Here's what is up with the state cookie, Mr. Obviously Lacking in Knowledge of New Mexico Culture. It's clear by your flippant column degrading the state cookie that you either: A) have never have experienced the delight of a real New Mexico celebration, or B) You just didn't care enough to pay attention.
Baptisms, weddings, Christmas Eve, New Year's, harvest, even a pueblo feast day, sometimes a funeral, the sugary, cinnamony little treats are still prized, made and sought after. There would be no bizcochitos missing from these events, any more than there would be chile and no beans.
The reason you can't easily find them is because they are so special. And, the rich culture and beauty that is New Mexico appears lost on people like you. Yes, there was a time when bizcochitos were readily found at New Mexico bakeries, but thanks to rising health consciousness and no respect for tradition, such as yours, many have cast the unusual anise tradition aside.
I don't mean to be overbearing, but I know you have stepped on a few toes, and since you are charged with writing a column read by the local population, please take the time to carefully consider what you are poking fun at and have a little respect. Yes, respect for a cookie! For tradition!
Glenda Murphy
Santa Fe
Mail letters to Letters, Santa Fe Reporter, PO Box 2306, Santa Fe, NM 87504, deliver to 132 E Marcy St., or email them to editor@sfreporter.com. Letters (no more than 200 words) should refer to specific articles in the Reporter.
