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Opinion - Letters to the Editor

Monday, May. 05, 2008

Parents share blame for gangs

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While reading "Gangs outrage city, but fear is stronger" (April 29, Page A-1), I was shocked to read the quote, "It was apathy on the part of the city, county and community that created this mess." Please clarify. Was Weed and Seed Vice Chairman Bob Schmal referring to law enforcement and innocent people?

What about holding those most responsible for the problem of gangs in Modesto accountable: gang members and gang members' families? Each one of these assassins is somebody's kid. Kids know right and wrong; so should parents. Kids need love, support, positive attention and discipline. Gang members receive little of these essential ingredients necessary to become responsible adults.

Try this, parents: Be a positive role model. Don't be their buddy or homie; be a parent. Set boundaries and expectations. Don't allow them to dress like a gangbanger. Don't allow the ridiculous sagging pants and knee-length red or blue shirts. Don't allow violent movies, video games or rap music in your house. Don't allow tattoos.

Remember, if they dress, talk and act like a gangbanger, they probably are!

JON POGGI

Modesto