The Washington County Children Services levy is about giving our most precious and valuable resource - kids - a chance of having safe and fulfilling lives.
As a volunteer with children over the past 43 years, I have always been amazed at the incredible accomplishments kids can make when given the opportunity. I also have been amazed that some adults can actually neglect and abuse both animals and children.
Unfortunately, even in Marietta and surrounding Washington County, it happens every day. As a journalist, volunteer and YMCA youth program director I have witnessed first hand the ugly things some warped individuals do to defenseless kids. The burn marks on the kid's leg in the Children Services levy video are heartbreaking. So are the photographs of the filth and squaller other kids are immersed in.
If we aren't willing to step up and protect our children, who will? Do I want to pay higher taxes. No! But I will pay higher taxes to get the social workers back in our schools and help to shore up the services for our kids. We will pay one way or another. We can invest in our kids now, or we can pay for the criminal justice system and prisons later.
By supporting the Washington County Children's Services levy Nov. 6, we can save a kid or two or 10. It is the responsibility of responsible people.
Roger G. Kalter, Marietta
1st Ward Marietta Council
