Post by Gene on Jun 14, 2007 15:20:34 GMT -5
Official Reading Express Press Release:
Thursday, June 14 2007
I would like to start out by saying that we respect, admire, and support all of the local police forces and the men and women who literally risk their lives every day in serving our community and fellow citizens. The police force should be respected and appreciated.
In light of the events over the last several days that resulted in charges filed against Carmelo Ocasio, our organization had to make a very difficult decision in a week that we should have been celebrating our season's victories. Although this was a difficult decision, after careful consideration of numerous factors, Carmelo Ocasio will be playing in the game Saturday Night. Based on the information that has been presented by all parties up to Thursday afternoon, we will be remaining neutral on any decisions regarding Carmelo until a time that would compel a reevaluation. We are aware that any decision that we make at this point has the potential to insult or offend people. All I can say is that our intentions are all good. At no time did Carmelo's abilities or the importance of our game on Saturday play a factor in our decision. We would have evaluated a 3rd string QB in the same situation using the same considerations. In no way is the decision a sign of disrespect towards our police force. We take it very seriously that the Reading Express players are local roll models to our children and in no way condone or accept any behaviors that contradict this responsibility.
Ted K. Lavender
President/CEO
Thursday, June 14 2007
I would like to start out by saying that we respect, admire, and support all of the local police forces and the men and women who literally risk their lives every day in serving our community and fellow citizens. The police force should be respected and appreciated.
In light of the events over the last several days that resulted in charges filed against Carmelo Ocasio, our organization had to make a very difficult decision in a week that we should have been celebrating our season's victories. Although this was a difficult decision, after careful consideration of numerous factors, Carmelo Ocasio will be playing in the game Saturday Night. Based on the information that has been presented by all parties up to Thursday afternoon, we will be remaining neutral on any decisions regarding Carmelo until a time that would compel a reevaluation. We are aware that any decision that we make at this point has the potential to insult or offend people. All I can say is that our intentions are all good. At no time did Carmelo's abilities or the importance of our game on Saturday play a factor in our decision. We would have evaluated a 3rd string QB in the same situation using the same considerations. In no way is the decision a sign of disrespect towards our police force. We take it very seriously that the Reading Express players are local roll models to our children and in no way condone or accept any behaviors that contradict this responsibility.
Ted K. Lavender
President/CEO