A Volunteer’s Support

I am an annual pass holder at the Georgia Aquarium and I also volunteer there. I cannot for the life of me understand why the AJC is so negative on the aquarium and continues to publish negative articles regarding this wonderful addition to our city.

This aquarium is dedicated to education, entertainment and research. Bernie Marcus and Jeff Swanagan [aquarium president and executive director] and the rest of the staff are all educated, dedicated individuals who give their life to learn about and protect all animals.

I am sure no one was more saddened by the deaths of the whale sharks and beluga than the people who interact with them on a daily basis. The facility was built with every consideration given for housing the whale sharks and belugas.

As far as the whale sharks are concerned, if they had not come to the aquarium, they would have ended up on someone's table. At least here, there is a chance for them to live. And when they die, however sad, there is a chance to learn more about them to protect them for future generations.

I praise the staff and I thank Mr. Marcus for his generous donation, which will be enjoyed by many millions of people — and, I hope, will allow aquarium researchers to learn more and more about the incredible creatures they house and study. Let's cheer them on and stop bashing them with every breath! Thank you.