Schuck story was just pointless noise

To use journalism-speak, what is the possible “angle” of the Bee’s story (June 11) about Justin Schuck’s delinquency in paying a portion of his student loan? You must have some purpose in publishing an expose about a fine young man who has made, and continues to make, extremely positive contributions to his hometown and our community.

Where was the Bee …

When Justin and his business partner completed 11 homes in 2009, creating much-needed jobs in a down economy?

When Justin has repeatedly through both word and deed, continuously supported the need for our community to provide affordable housing to entry-level home buyers?

When Justin meet with two of our local banks in mid-June, pursuing financing opportunities for his clients so he can continue to be successful in his construction business?

When Justin decided to make the financial and time investment to run for city council, to win that seat, and to dedicate the amount of his discretionary time and energy in our community in a most thankless schedule of continuous meetings and service to his constituents that is required of this endeavor?

When Justin decided to incur his student loan to further his education in pursuit of his four-year degree so he could round out his skills to be able to start his construction company and run for public office?

When Just stood up to his commitment to pay his debt and continues to work with his lender to be sure they are continuously aware of his intent and plan to pay it off — even through a judgment process that his lender was forced to pursue according to their regulatory authorities?

I have had the privilege and pleasure of working with Justin in several settings over the last several years. In every case, it has been obvious that his drive to do the right thing and do it right the first time controls his daily routine. Yes, to Justin, the word “routine” is inappropriate because his integrity demands it. How nice it would be if our local newspaper would be incented to find out examples of performance by Justin, and others like him, in our community to bring the attention of its readership instead of the type of pointless noise in the June 11 issue of your “news”-paper represented by this article.

STAN HATCH

Sandpoint