LIZA TO A T

What a delight to see Liza Minnelli on the cover of Calendar (“She’s Still Chasing Rainbows,” July 20). What a shame that articles about her always have to compare her to her mother with a predictable “she’s a survivor” slant.

Truth is, there is not a single popular performer, including Streisand, Midler or Tony Bennett, who comes close to producing the sheer electricity and joy that Minnelli brings to a concert performance. It’s sad that she is judged by her number of fans or the moneymaking potential of her films because that has nothing to do with her colossal, one-of-a-kind talent.

BRENT WINSTEAD

Long Beach

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The cover story missed a key point in describing her “swift life.” There seems to be a subtle insinuation that Minnelli is somehow to blame for not retaining superstar levels of adoring, eager-to-spend fans.

Minnelli has quite simply been a victim of a society that would not recognize art or a genuine artist if the artist cut off an ear and tacked it to Newt Gingrich’s forehead.

Minnelli is appreciated by a strong base of very loyal fans who appreciate genuine artistry. She should be glad that she’s not embraced by the masses who cherish the drivel and mediocrity produced by Demi Moore, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Bruce Willis, Sylvester Stallone, et al, adnauseam.

SHELLEY FREEMAN

Long Beach

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An open letter to Liza With a Z:

To save your glorious voice, please stop smoking immediately.

And have that gold crown on your upper right first molar replaced with a porcelain one, so it will no longer mar your wide and magnificent smile!

MARVIN H. LEAF DDS

Rancho Mirage