This write-in letter and the response, although from Seattle, remind me of something that happens quite often on the Pearl Street Mall.

Here's the question:
Every day an unkempt man stands outside the grocery store I manage, singing and playing guitar for tips. His playing is monotonous, his voice is a foghorn and customers have complained. Another area store paid him to keep away. Now he's "ready to make a deal" with our store -- in effect, threatening us with more loud attempts at Neil Young songs until we submit. What should I do? -- Troy Bond, Seattle

Um, in Boulder there'd be no point in paying him to move on, since there'd just be some other guy to take his place. And besides, could he really be any WORSE at Neil Young covers than Neil Young was in the first place? I'd say be glad he's staked out the front of your store, at least he's keeping away the guy with the digeridoo or the one juggling actual fire...