A Serious Subject

The frivolity of your headline on the Steve Garvey story (“Accidental Double Play Not Likely to Shut Out Garvey’s Political Future,” Feb. 17) in today’s paper is inexcusable.

When sports heroes are accused of offenses relating to drug use, the media recognize the harm that can be done to impressionable youngsters. Sports figures are role models, and their behavior is often emulated. Their transgressions are viewed in a harsher light than those of anonymous citizens. In a society which acknowledges an increasing problem with teen-age pregnancy and in which concerned people are trying to encourage sexually active young men and women to act responsibly, Steve Garvey’s romantic activities should not receive such casual treatment. The question is not just whether his political career is affected, but what kind of example he sets for others who might see fathering children out of wedlock as OK if Steve does it.

The Los Angeles Times is not to blame for Garvey’s behavior, but the paper is responsible for the “spin” put on the story.

ROSALIE SCHWARTZ

San Diego