Minnesota Vikings receiver Jerome Simpson decided to go overboard with his community service. After 15 days in jail Simpson went about completing his court-ordered community service with gusto. He did close to 15 hours extra working at P.E.A.S.E. Academy with kids who have addiction problems. Simpson's arrest was for DWI. But was his enthusiastic turn at community service actually a PR Stunt? Well, even if it was, it probably meant a lot to the kids.
Simpson logged his time for community service but he made it count when he came to work at P.E.A.S.E. Academy. He reportedly shot straight with the kids and told him why he was there, and it paid off (via TMZ):
"The director of the program tells us Simpson owned up to his actions when talking to the kids -- in the hopes that his honesty would help them steer clear of making the same mistakes he made.
"We're told he also 'went above and beyond [for the kids] -- attending evening events, sitting with kids, and even serving them lunch...
"'To have someone of notoriety and fame in the sports world was a BIG deal to the kids, especially to see him interact, and set a good example for them,' the director tells us."
The Viking Age, a fan site, has hurled a lot of criticism toward Simpson during his tenure in Minnesota, but they were quick to offer praise as well (via The Viking Age):
"We've given Simpson a lot of grief over the years - and I believe his actions have often warranted it - and it's only fair that we give him kudos when he does something good. He deserves the shout out for his efforts with the P.E.A.S.E. Academy kids."
What do you think? Does Simpson's effort seem like a publicity stunt or a genuine change of heart? Does it matter?
© 2024 Classicalite All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
