When I read about the musical changes Downtown Roanoke Inc. has planned for the St. Patrick's party ("Festival going less green this year," Feb. 10 news story), I saw red.

People coming to that grand celebration are in the mood for things Irish and Celtic; things that are diluted in the background of our culture the rest of the year. This includes music.

Only the culturally tone deaf would throw salsa and oom-pah bands into the Festival of India celebration. So why include rock and pop bands in a St. Paddy's Day bash?

Those musical genres are heard on the radio or in clubs or other performance venues multiple times every day in this area.

Let us have one day in one small part of the city that's filled with the spirit of the Auld Sod for those who want to enjoy it.

Now where did I put me shillelagh?

STEVEN B. STANLEY
ROANOKE


Put news coverage to a morality test

Recently, The Roanoke Times has printed numerous personal, local, national and international articles (some with pictures) regarding individuals and partnerships that are immoral and unbiblical.

Concerned as a Christian, mother, nurse, teacher and daily reader, I wish to remind your staff that vulnerable children are exposed to this information as they occasionally scan the paper for historical or interesting articles. Many students are often assigned to report on articles for educational assignments, also.

I believe that an evaluation is in line for rating articles for acceptable morality, appropriateness and wholesomeness.

Many more private avenues of communication are available for announcing employee benefits, insurance coverage and private organizations.

I believe that you make too much information available for readers of all ages.

Many people still need to meet Jesus, who is eager to share his love.

LINDA YOUNG
ROANOKE

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