10242011 - News Article - Portage schools to discuss contribution to Mayor Velazquez

Portage schools to discuss contribution to Mayor Velazquez
NWI Times
Oct 24, 2011
http://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/porter/portage/portage-schools-to-discuss-contribution-to-mayor-velazquez/article_8cbce109-2530-50d6-ad3c-17cea5187916.html
PORTAGE | The director of the Portage High School athletic department said he did not have politics in mind when he decided to use $500 from his department to take part in a golf outing last month supporting the re-election bid of Democratic Mayor Olga Velazquez.

"We were going out there thanking the people getting behind Portage athletics," Jeff Smith said.

While the department generates most of its funds through gate receipts, concessions, sponsorship, donations and sources other than taxes, Portage Township Schools Superintendent Mike Berta said this expenditure on the golf outing merits discussion by the school corporation.

Berta said he understands the need for the athletic department to build relationships and was aware the foursome took part in the Sept. 19 outing, which fell on a school day.

Velazquez downplayed the value of the contribution, saying she gives money to the athletic department and other community groups from the same campaign funds.

"I support the schools in whatever way I can," she said.


Jason Wille, sports information director for the Indiana High School Athletic Association, said it sounded like the issue is one for the schools and not his organization.

Republican James Snyder, who is seeking to unseat Velazquez, said he does not believe those, such as himself, who contribute to Portage school athletics, intend for their money to go to politics.

When Snyder learned Smith said he would attend Snyder's golf outing if he is elected mayor, Snyder said he would offer Smith the chance to take part free of charge.

While Smith said he has taken part in the mayor's golf outing for the past 10 years -- four while serving as athletic director -- this was the first time he dipped into his department's funds to cover the cost. He has traditionally been invited as someone's guest, he said.

Smith said he was joined at the mayor's golf outing by assistant athletic director Kelly Bermes, Portage High Principal Caren Swickard and guidance counselor Tim Kunstek.

Smith said he visits various community groups as part of the same outreach effort. The athletic department also has contributed money to other nonathletic causes.