The Editor, Sir:

One of the results of the Olympic euphoria which swept every Jamaican a few weeks ago was what could be referred to as the 'boltism' process. A working definition of 'boltism' is that whatever Usain did and all that was/is associated with him is acceptable and palatable.

I confess to being one of those persons affected by this process, as during that euphoric period prompt enquiries were made regarding the mechanics of the 'Nuh Linga' and the 'Gully Creeper' with no claim being made as to technical competence! To make it worse, I discovered that 'boltism' was also affecting others of my age group and mindset!

Welcoming song

You may therefore understand my concern in noting the identity of the artiste who did the welcoming song at the press conference which was held at The Pegasus on Monday last. My concern arises from the news items which I have heard, in which this particular artiste has been associated with gun offences. Surely, one of the reasons why the success of our Olympics team was so precious is that the world can now see that good can come from our little country, as distinct from all the daily violent activities for which we are renowned!

I therefore ask: Was it a wise thing to have publicly and deliberately associated Usain with this particular artiste? Have we by doing so possibly weakened and corrupted the good dynamics that Usain's success is capable of having on this country?

We must take every opportunity to applaud our athletes for their spectacular success, but let us be thoughtful in the process. Let us ensure that all messages, particularly from the publicly arranged events, are in keeping with those things which are good and worthy of emulation.

I am, etc.,

S. RICHARDS

Kingston 10