Wednesday, September 4, 2002

Let me start this out with the statement that I don't mean to sound like the Grinch. I support many worthwhile charities and causes.

But within two days of the beginning of school in Fayette County, and probably across the United States, the doorbells start ringing. Here come the children peddling wrapping paper, cookie dough, trinkets, and even jewelry.

What prompted me to write this letter is that one of these children even showed up after dusk. It was almost pitch black outside. And I'm not talking about big kids, I'm talking about kids who can't be much more than 9 or 10.

I could perhaps see this if there were a patient parent waiting outside, but usually there isn't. In light of the recent abductions of small children in the news, is this really such a great idea?

If the county really needs extra funds for school projects, surely there is some safer way for these funds to be obtained.

Marcus Valdes

Fayetteville

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