Publish Names of Dead-Beat Dads

I have had this thought for years but now that my children face the reality of losing their home of 10 years and of their basic needs not being met, I feel compelled to suggest an idea.

Perhaps the newspapers could set aside some space, on a monthly basis, to publish the names of fathers in this community who refuse to comply with court orders to pay their child support. I wonder if those fathers would then be motivated to stay current with those responsibilities.

One would think that a man might be motivated by love for his children and the desire to meet their many needs. Unfortunately for some, perhaps the fear of a tarnished image in their community would prove a more powerful motivator.

Regrettably, the district attorney’s office is often overloaded with cases and can be of little assistance in cases involving fathers who are self-employed, though their income is significant.

This problem affects children all over this country. If newspapers in every community provided this service, it could help make an impact on this problem. Indeed, sometimes it does take a village.

ANNE McMANUS

Ojai