Airport entertainment was a welcome respite

With the response and reaction to the column from your sports editor on Pearson Airport’s so-called kitchen party last month, there is no doubt in most people’s minds that he was out of his league and has no idea about the positive impact our heritage and culture contributes to this province.

At a similar venue at St. John’s Airport in August 2016, while waiting to board a late evening international flight to Dublin, the same accordionist broke out his instrument and brought smiles to not only those of us from Newfoundland and Labrador, but from all passengers travelling to Europe. We don’t recall anyone turning their backs. Instead, they joined in because they knew it was probably a one-time great experience to witness and participate in. This is just one example what Newfoundland and Labrador culture is known for.

We made our trip to Dublin as part of the Irish N.L. Connection with 60 other Newfoundlanders and Labradorians, including Sheldon Thornhill and Sean Sullivan, and for 10 days they proved to be great ambassadors for our province.

We write this letter in support of all our talented musicians and entertainers who keep our great culture alive, and ask them to do the same as these two gentlemen did, no matter where you travel.

At a time in this world where guns and bombs are so freely used in churches, concert venues, city streets and airports, a simple gesture by playing musical instruments to help relieve stress and anguish should be welcomed by anyone, especially travellers.

Well done, Sheldon and Shawn.

Ralph and Joanne Tapper, Torbay Bill and Sharron O’toole, Bauline