That ‘spark’ is called friction

I noted your disparagement (“A spark for the Salem Red Sox,” July 17 editorial) of Aaron McFarling’s very excellent idea of changing the Salem Red Sox name (“Time for ballclub to change identity,” July 14 sports column).

Obviously, McFarling is much closer to sports realities than your editors (duh!). And may I suggest that the first order of business for your “fan development coach” should be to conduct a contest to change the Salem Red Sox name.

Your editors don’t seem to fathom that the Red Sox name is not a “spark” for this area. As a longtime fan of the Salem team, I noted an arrogant Red Sox management from the time the club took over the team — starting with the idiotic mascots it added alongside fan favorites Mugsy and Misty.

Covering part of the stands was also beyond dumb. The most exciting “spark” for this team and organization would be to change the name to one that can be Salem’s own. Only the arrogance of the Red Sox organization will prevent it.

PHILIP COFFEY
SALEM

Weather Journal

4 hours ago

1. 41-vehicle wreck ties up traffic Sunday on I-81 in Rockbridge County 

2. Virginia Tech football roster has holes on picture day

3. Medicare penalties hit hospitals in Roanoke, New River Valleys

4. Microfestivus beer event gets downtown Roanoke hopping 

5. McFarling: 2 little numbers are a big hurdle for Virginia Tech football 

6. Arrest made in case of missing Nelson County teen

7. DAN CASEY: Copter cost still stirring up dust

8. Roanoke farmers markets making local foods more accessible

9. Virginia attorney general's office grows under Ken Cuccinelli 

10. Man's drowning is 5th in Lynchburg area