Dear Mr Simon:

Last Saturday I had the opportunity to be in Blue and Gold stadium during the pregame warm-ups for the boy’s playoff soccer game. I’ve attended games before and realize the athletes prefer to warm up and listen to some loud music. I understand fully, as I played college sports as well.

However, during two different songs, the “N” word was repeatedly used. I find this offensive and would venture a guess that many other Newtown residents would as well. I urge you to restrict the playing of certain songs that contain this word, and perhaps, the other six words that one can’t say on television. Now, before anyone jumps the gun and cries censorship and free speech rights, remember this is the same school in which the student body found it offensive to use the name “Indian” as their mascot. I would assume the school population would find the “N” word blaring quite a few times from the load speaker at the school stadium offensive as well.

I did notice another couple turn around and look at the press box when this word was used, and the gentleman in the press box just shrugged his shoulders. I would hope that in the future, he would have the courage to remove such offensive lyrics from the pregame ritual.

I would hope that this matter can be resolved before I have to explain to my 10-year-old soccer player why the school tolerates such words.

Sincerely,

Keith Thompson

20 Mount Nebo Road, Newtown                               October 29, 2003