As Baltimore citizens react to the angry protests that have followed the death of Freddie Gray in police custody, the need for improved recreation centers for city youth has been raised by a number of community leaders ("Mayor defends leadership, record on police misconduct," April 30).
Ron Daniels, president of Johns Hopkins University, has expressed his concern over the events in the city, saying that Hopkins "takes seriously the opportunity and obligation of our role as an anchor institution within Baltimore."
I have a suggestion for Mr. Daniels: Since the city has eliminated many rec centers because of limited funds, and since Hopkins, thanks to its tax-exempt status, deprives the city of many millions of dollars a year in tax-revenue, why doesn't JHU show its concern by sponsoring some rec centers in city neighborhoods?
Moreover, Hopkins shouldn't do the job alone. How about Under Armour, T.Rowe Price, McCormick Spice, H&S Bakery, Legg Mason, the Orioles, the Ravens, and others chipping in as well?
If these institutions won't step forward to help the community this way, Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake should make a public appeal to each of them.
M&T Bank displays its name on Ravens Stadium. While rec centers might be less visible, it would be more significant to attach M&T's name to them. Rec centers would improve our community by providing young people with safe and enriching alternatives to the city's mean streets.
Karen Meyers, Baltimore