ETHICS
Grownups need to set proper moral example
I applaud the position Superintendent Erroll Davis took regarding the Grady High School recruiting allegation (“Football recruiting alleged,” Metro, Dec. 10). I am paraphrasing, but he said parents have an obligation to set an appropriate ethical example for our children. Amen, brother.
Recent examples of adults demonstrating a complete lack of ethical behavior are the APS test cheating scandal; the school construction contracting scandal; commissioners and city officials lining their pockets with taxpayer money; professional athletes using performance-enhancing drugs, etc. It’s no wonder so many of our children end up as self-serving brats.
All the fame and fortune attained in the world cannot buy, or substitute for, an ethical and moral reputation. Business, school and community leaders and parents need to set a better example — or else our society will continue on a downward spiral.
P.D. GOSSAGE, JOHNS CREEK
Judge right to deliver stiff prison sentences
Regarding “Stiff sentences in construction scandal” (News, Dec. 10): Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus, and it is in the form of Judge Cynthia Becker.
Judge Becker sent a clear message that there is a high price to pay for government corruption. For far too long, those who abuse positions of trust have escaped with little more than a slap on the hand. Perhaps, now those who even consider doing wrong will realize that the punishment outweighs the potential benefit. In this case, the system did work – even if it was a bit slow to discover, convict and punish the wrong-doers.
Thank you, Judge Becker, for re-establishing the doctrine of crime and punishment.
MICHAEL L. SHAW, STONE MOUNTAIN
STADIUMS
Winning, not venues, should be teams’ focus
As a native Atlantan, lifelong Braves and Falcons fan, and one-time season ticket holder for each team, I would like to give my thoughts on the proposed new stadiums.
I have experienced year after year and season after season of disappointment with my beloved teams, and I have now passed this enthusiasm on to my teenage son. It is just part of life as an Atlanta fan.
I think many fans will agree that we don’t care what type of stadium the teams play in, as long as they are champions. Each team is about to embark on building another stadium, while we have waited years for true winning teams. They need to worry more about how they play than where they play.
Teams threaten to shop for a new city if they don’t get their new palaces of mediocrity. The fans can shop for new teams to support, too.
MARK BUSCH, ATLANTA
