Letter: Jazz patriotism at games a promising change in sports

Published: Friday, Nov. 23 2012 12:00 a.m. MST

David Pack sings the national anthem during tryouts to sing at Jazz games at EnergySolutions Arena in Salt Lake City on Friday, Oct. 5, 2012.

Laura Seitz, Laura Seitz, Deseret News

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Summary

I have been dismayed for years at the lack of respect for the American flag by National Basketball Association players. A small, humble gesture of placing one's hand over one's heart during the national anthem is symbolic of the gratitude we have in living in such a great land of peace, freedom and abundance. NBA players in particular should be grateful for this abundance.

Thanks to the efforts of Randy Rigby, president of the Utah Jazz, almost every player is placing his hand over his heart during the national anthem. I hope people will notice, both at home and on the road. I hope the team will be an example of decency and respect to others in their profession. I don't really care how many games they win — I am now proud to be a Utah Jazz fan.

Sandy Hurst

Farmington

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ECR

Burke, VA

Putting your hand on your heart does not automatically make you any more or any less patriotic than wearing one of those lapel pins with the American flag. It is simply an outward gesture that most use to show their allegiance but some use for More..

8:27 a.m. Nov. 23, 2012
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one old man

Ogden, UT

So now the Utah Jazz is a left-wing organization.

Good grief. Living with paranoia must be such fun!

8:29 a.m. Nov. 23, 2012
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Grover

Salt Lake City, UT

Using the logic of this letter, Mitt wore a bigger flag pin than did the President and look what it got him...pumping gas in La Jolla with uncombed hair, a two day old shirt and levis. The Jazz should play ball and leave the pseudo patriotism to the More..

11:01 a.m. Nov. 23, 2012
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