Spread the credit in CR sports stories (12/12/06)

To the editor:

For several years I have had pent-up emotions about the news coverage that the "greats" have enjoyed. My children are not in that class, but nonetheless work just as hard, if not harder, to achieve their personal best. Losers are not newsworthy, but the press can certainly give a shot of self esteem to those deserving.

So, how about those that are "almost" as good? A mention of them now and then would be a shot in the arm that they deserve. Your coverage is short-changed, and I understand that there is only so much ink for a particular subject. But Friday's paper (Dec. 8th) was the epitome of neglect. The "Depth leads Patriots" article was underscored by Starfire tankers clobber North Side. Whether you count words or square inches of print, the "Starfire" article was bigger.

South Adams? Fort Wayne? I don't live in either of those places, and I don't subscribe to any of the newspapers that may be available in those towns. I subscribe to the Jay County paper, to read about the people that I know.

I go to the swim meets that last hours on end, only to read the next day who won first place, or multiple wins. Same people, same press. Diving lasts for about an hour or so, and I read about who came in second. Who came in first? Third? Would it kill you to give some credit to those that tried just as hard, but didn't finish first? Just once I would like to cut out an article that had my kid's name in it for their scrapbook, even if they didn't achieve an Olympic record.

Maybe sacrifice a few columns from Fort Recovery and Berne (which seem to be prolific in your coverage) and let a few more Jay County kids enjoy a little recognition.

And don't stop at swimming, as this has been a point of contention through every baseball, basketball, soccer, and football league my kids (and everyone else's) has been through.

And, don't forget the Jay County Marching Patriots.

Dennis Skiver

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