Print edition: 
We all have duty
to protect kids
In light of recent events, the Wichita Sedgwick County Domestic Violence Sexual Assault Coalition would like to remind everyone that each of us has a duty and responsibility to advocate for and protect our children.
When any individual has knowledge of any form of violence, including sexual violence, being committed against a child and does not report that violation to the police and proper authorities, it is a failure to protect the innocence and safety of children. Withholding information to protect the abuser from embarrassment and further legal actions simply opens the door for a wider swath of victimization of more children.
It is a great tragedy when a personal or professional relationship with the offender clouds judgment. The relationship then becomes complicit with the crime. As the events at Penn State unfold, it is clear that no one individual, no matter his position in society, is above experiencing consequences for not acting substantially enough to protect children from being victimized. May we use this tragic event to drive home to us the consequences of being a bystander.
Become an “upstander.” Stand up and report to police when you witness or obtain knowledge about a child being abused. In Kansas, you can call the child abuse hotline, 800-922-5330, to begin an investigation. Call the police directly at 911 if you believe the child may face imminent danger or risk. Together, we can make a difference.
NANCY CARROLL
Chairwoman
Wichita Sedgwick County Domestic Violence Sexual Assault Coalition
Wichita
False assertions
“Differences between the tea party, ‘occupiers’” (Nov. 12 Letters to the Editor) contained assertions that beg to be addressed. Claiming that “the tea partiers know their math,” the writer asserted that the country is equally divided 50-50 between “suppliers” and “takers.” Does that mean we have a 50 percent unemployment rate?
Among differences cited: that tea partiers are clean and pick up their trash, while the occupiers are dirty and “freeloaders.” In Washington, D.C., I saw occupiers clean and cleaning. Television showed Wall Street occupiers scrubbing, sweeping and mopping. To demonize them on these grounds is futile and will not defeat them.
Protesters welcome one and all. Homeless have been housed, hungry have been fed, tattered clothing has been replaced. The group becomes a microcosm of the general population – employed and unemployed, workers and professionals, Vietnam vets, Iraq and Afghanistan vets, all concerned about one another.
The top 1 percent owns as much wealth as approximately the bottom 40 percent. Who wouldn’t be angry at this discrepancy? Who wouldn’t be fearful?
Tea partiers and occupiers share many concerns. Would that we could get together on essential issues.
ALICE POWELL
Wichita
Sudden interest
You can tell that it is less than a year from the next presidential election. Republicans vying for the nomination are making their pledges and promises. However, the most obvious proof of the election season comes from President Obama.
All of a sudden Obama is interested in more oil exploration and drilling. All of a sudden he is concerned about Iran’s nukes. All of a sudden he wants to get tough with China. And despite having the House, Senate and presidency his first two years, he now wants to blame Republicans for obstructing his new tax hikes – you know, the ones that are supposed to be job creators.
I hope all Americans are listening and being observant as to what is happening and when it is happening. There is no hope for American jobs under the current administration.
RON PAGE
Derby
Public thanks
While hosting a lunch with four World War II veterans at a local restaurant (Copper Oven), I was pleased when the gentlemen were greeted and thanked for their service by several patrons who noticed their military attire.
A fellow sitting next to us struck up a brief conversation, expressed his appreciation and moved on, but not before leaving our waiter with a $100 bill to pay the check for our lunches. Then the restaurant manager came by our table, took time to visit with each veteran, and ordered a delicious dessert for the men.
This was almost too much for the emotions of these tough military veterans, as they had rarely been acknowledged for their service in such rapid-fire fashion, in public no less. There were some teary eyes, particularly mine.
So speaking for this foursome of vets: a warm and most sincere “thank you.” I hope other veterans were feted in a similar fashion this past Veterans Day.
JOHN H. WILSON
Wichita
Vets, not nags
I had an appointment on Veterans Day in Wichita. This drive takes me past several large cattle pastures that are now filled with grass-killing horses that belong to us, the taxpayers.
As I drove, I thought about how much more we could do for veterans. One way is to spend the millions of dollars now used to feed nonindigenous nags on our veterans. We should be helping a veteran, not feeding a wild horse. If you agree, contact your representatives.
PRISCILLA RIVERS
Grenola
