Invest in our youth

Dear Editor 
Rudy Draper held a unique title on the Fourth of July. Yes, he is titled Mayor of Pittsburg, and also is a member of the Kansas Army National Guard, both very honorable positions. But on the morning of our 30th Annual Kids’ Parade, he was titled, for four blocks in a light drizzle, Honorary Parade Marshall. Rudy represents the many children who have been raised in our neighborhood, have been influenced by nurturing families, schools, churches, organizations, and neighbors, and now as young adults are willing to assume roles of service to our community. Let us always remember the ongoing need to invest in our youth, and recognize that many, like Rudy Draper, will be the ones to continue to ensure the rich heritage of Pittsburg and our country.
Janeil Bryan
Pittsburg