Program Cutbacks Are Pound-Foolish

The recent excellent article “A Diamond in the Rough Sparkles” about Damon Bihm (Sports, May 15), dramatically illustrates the value of athletics and other worthwhile programs in shaping young lives, especially those from the inner city.

Fairness decrees we mention that although Los Angeles City College Coach Dan Cowgill dropped Damon from the program, he reinstated him twice with the backing of Seattle Mariners scout Fate Young and sports agent Chuck Stone. If he hadn’t been reinstated, the odds of him reaching Talladega College would have been remote.

The role of his godparents can’t be overstated--they were there when his life was at a crossroads, and they maintained him in an educational environment, allowing the window of opportunity to open. With him, they seized the opportunity. His life is now moving, from a high-risk future to one of promise.

Not sensational or bizarre enough to gain media attention the normal way, his story illustrates the daily battles that rage and the fine line between victor and victim. His story can touch and inspire others who still struggle.

If only our leaders and society could grasp the message, in an era of cutbacks, that cuts can be penny rich in the short run, but often dollar poor in the long haul--”cheaper a kid to Yale, than to jail.” It’s not only morally but financially more feasible to save than salvage.

PHIL POTE

Los Angeles

Pote is on the Committee for a Presidential Council on Youth.