Controversy Over Singer Ashanti's Visit To Atlantic City School
By Todd Quinones
ATLANTIC CITY (CBS) – Community members are upset at the amount paid to have Grammy Award winner Ashanti visit an Atlantic City High School.
Atlantic City students were excited about Ashanti's June 1st visit: "They posted all over Facebook and Instagram that she was here," said one student.
Ashanti's visit included an interview with the high school radio station and assemblies where she encouraged students to study hard and stay in school.
According to published reports, the singer was paid $20,000 by the Atlantic City School District for her time.
Some community members believe this money was spent unwisely.
"I have a problem with it because the taxes are high enough down here," says Tad Stern.
By all accounts, Ashanti delivered a positive message to students and a cost of $20,000 did not seem out of line to some.
"It's a lot of money, but that's her price. If that's what she gets for a personal appearance, that's what she gets," says Daniel Udonughue-Walsh.
