THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1997, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Saturday, February 15, 1997 TAG: 9702150004
SECTION: FRONT PAGE: A12 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Letter
LENGTH: 24 lines
I would like to respond to Joanna Culbertson's Feb. 7 letter, ``All victims deserve attention.'' She stated that ``there would be less racial tension in the country'' if the media gave attention to black teens dying like it does to white teens, like Tim Wheaton.
One reason we have racial tension is because a tragic death occurs and people think about the victim's color.
Every day the newspaper is filled with stories about those murdered, both black and white. Some stories are longer than others; it all depends on the circumstances. The media coverage on Tim Wheaton was so extensive because he was involved in his community and touched so many lives.
Tim was a good boy with a lot going for him, and it's apparent that he will be missed by many. Let's not use his death as an opportunity to holler ``racism.''
BETTINA CUCE
Virginia Beach, Feb. 8, 1997