Letters

BORDER CHALLENGE

S.D. Liddick did a fantastic job in revisiting a particularly gruesome case [“Blood of Their Brothers: The Border Trilogy, Part I,” April]. The story is well researched, it is skillfully written, and the final product provides an insightful look into the issue of drug trafficking, arms trafficking and corruption within Mexican police agencies.

However, Liddick and his editors fail to acknowledge the extensive contributions of other reporters who have written with equally valuable insight and detail about drug trafficking along the border. The San Diego Union-Tribune has written numerous stories illuminating the human impact of drug trafficking along the border, including a series called “The Other War.” The Los Angeles Times has been tackling this issue particularly aggressively over the past year in its “Mexico Under Siege” project. Local Tijuana reporters such as Dora Elena Cortes have also provided detailed accounts of this complicated topic. I know I am missing others.

By alleging that “bad newspaper coverage” has resulted in superficial coverage of drug trafficking, the story seems to be trying to set up Liddick’s authority at the expense of others. Let’s be clear: Liddick provides a valuable contribution to border journalism, connecting the dots in this complicated story. But his story, which hints at answers as to why the beheadings took place, ultimately runs into the same challenges faced by countless other border reporters who write about these kinds of crimes. The truth tends to be muddled in rumors, unnamed sources become pillars of reference, and explanations are framed in generalities and anecdotes of the high human cost of drug trafficking.

I have enjoyed Liddick’s stories in the past and look forward to reading more of his excellent work. Collectively, the work of Liddick and other border journalists provides comprehensive insights into this complicated world.

ANNA CEARLEY
FORMER BORDER REPORTER
THE SAN DIEGO UNION-TRIBUNE
ACROSSTHEBORDER.WORDPRESS.COM
 

For Liddick’s response, click here.——Editor

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DIGGING DEEPER

I read with great interest your article on the best farmers’ markets in San Diego County [“To Market, to Market” by Adam Elder and Julia Beeson Polloreno]. I also browsed your magazine on the Web for more information. And I was impressed by the markets you highlighted and deemed best because of the number of customers; the wide variety of products such as organic produce, fresh bread, arts and crafts; and/or the popularity and sustainability of these markets.

However, I think you failed to include another best farmers’ market, located in the heart of our city: the City Heights Farmers’ Market. Why is it best? It’s the first food stamp–accessible farmers’ market in the county. Finally, the community that needs access to fresh and affordable locally grown fruits and vegetables the most has it. The City Heights Farmers’ Market is reflective of this diverse community where 40 different languages are spoken, and where the feeling of community can be found among the offerings of fresh produce, hot food from vendors, arts and crafts and entertainment, as well as health and economic outreach.

Browse cityheightsfarmersmarket.com for more information.

MICHELLE MURPHY ZIVE, M.S., R.D.
PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR
NETWORK FOR A HEALTHY CALIFORNIA
CITY HEIGHTS

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INSPIRISH

Bob Rowland’s story about Brian and Gerri Monaghan and Brian’s valiant comeback from brain cancer was very touching [“The Pluck of the Irish,” May]. And it was most certainly inspiring.

I followed Brian’s career for many years, and I could imagine what a blow the diagnosis was to such a vital and vibrant man. It was wonderful to find out that, 10 years after his diagnosis, he’s indeed vibrant and vital again.

I have always wondered why doctors ever give a prognosis that includes X number of months or years to live. In Brian’s case, it was three to six months. For some folks, that might be considered permission to give in and give up. Fortunately, in this case it was not. I’m sure that 11 years later, his doctor would concede his prediction was off a bit.

I appreciate San Diego Magazine for sharing stories that lift us up. Lord knows, these days, we can all use it.

ARNETTE BAILEY
SAN DIEGO

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READER-FRIENDLY

Thanks for providing the crossword puzzle in a more usable, lap-friendly format. Well done!

JACK BYRNE
SAN DIEGO

In the interest of preserving space and for convenience, the puzzle now may
be accessed through our Web site at sandiegomagazine.com/crossword.—Editor
 

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