Letters to the Editor

Discipline, respect, courtesy

Many thanks for the great feature article on Mestre Curisco ("Leaping to Freedom," Nov. 6). I watched, transfixed, as he and his class went through their capoeira paces at this past summer's Brasilfest. As impressive as the moves are, the main thing that struck me over and over was the discipline, respect and courtesy exhibited by all the participants. Especially the kids, who obviously idolize their mestre. This, by itself, is enough to sell me on what he is doing . . . These kids are going to be the eventual leaders in their communities, no doubt about it. I hope more people will get turned onto capoeira and Brazilian culture in general, due to your article.
— Sherry Howland, Seattle

Story will span the ages

I wanted to thank you for running the pseudo-technical article on the new Tacoma Narrows bridge construction ("Bridging the Narrows," Sept. 11). I especially enjoyed it, being a metallurgical engineer from the University of Washington. Even though the project is a big civil-engineering feat of marvel, much of the metalwork that goes into the reinforced concrete and the cables is a metallurgical aspect. Really enjoyed the article, and I will be saving this issue of this magazine.
— Wayne C.R. Taylor, Olympia, a native Washingtonian

A way of life

I'm a student of the United Capoeira Association under the guidance of Mestre Acordeon. My teacher is Contramestre Galo, and we're located in Denver.

I simply want to thank you for writing such a beautiful and inspiring article about capoeira ("Leaping to Freedom," Nov. 6). The time and research you did in finding out about capoeira is so appreciated. Many times the media has not done justice to this way of life that so many others and I hold so dear. I kept anticipating that you would end the article prematurely but you followed through with amazing detail and attention.

I also know Mestre Curisco (and some of the students you mentioned) as he frequently visits our school here, as well as me seeing him at other events in other cities, including Seattle. The way that you wrote about him, described him, I could just hear his voice as I read along. You brought to life a person who has inspired me so much in a different way than I had ever seen him before.
— Grilo Preto, Denver

As time goes by, with a smile

Just wanted to let you know how much I look forward to Steve Johnston's columns (Sunday Punch) in Pacific Northwest magazine. Can't tell you how many times I have thought about giving you a call or sending an e-mail to say thanks for sharing the trials and tribulations of the Johnston clan, for your humor, for making me laugh out loud, for bringing a smile to my face and then, time goes by. . . . So I am finally doing it and throwing the Post-it note that has been moved repeatedly across my desk and is no longer sticky!

Things are as hectic as ever in Redmond. Where have the 14 years gone to? Looking forward to retirement in two years.
— Rosemarie Ives, mayor of Redmond

Hooked on capoeira

I started practicing capoeira in San Diego about eight months ago, and I am already hooked. I get Google alerts for articles on capoeira and I read many, but I really enjoyed yours ("Leaping to Freedom," Nov. 6). I do not know if Paula Bock was familiar with capoeira before writing this article, but she did an excellent job of really capturing the essence of capoeira and its lifestyle. Many articles that I've read are not able to do that. I also really enjoyed reading the descriptions of Mestre Curisco's life growing up in Brazil.
— Sarah Needham, San Diego

Send letters to the editor to Pacific Northwest magazine, The Seattle Times, P.O. Box 70, Seattle, WA 98111, or e-mail pacificnw@seattletimes.com. Include a telephone number for verification.