The ‘perky’ factor

IF Katie Couric were a man, there would be none of this talk concerning “perkiness” [“Face Up to the Perky,” by Robin Abcarian, April 15]. I find it surprising and terrifying that The Times would write such a sexist piece on a woman who is clearly intelligent and professional.

Just like any other person, she deserves respect, especially from the press. Perkiness is a sexist term used to stereotype women and minimize their positions.

ALICE GOLDSMITH

Calabasas

*

KATIE COURIC deserves the respect and dignity accorded Tom Brokaw when he made the transition from “Today” to “NBC Nightly News.” The presence of an experienced newswoman, perky or not, as a solo nightly news anchor is long overdue. In today’s doom-and-gloom news environment, Katie’s ability to bring a little sunshine into our lives may be a welcomed benefit.

PHYLLIS LANDIS

Los Angeles