Letters on constitutional convention, buying local, Blubaugh, Shockers

Constitution is not cause of problems

I read that Kansas is wanting to join a group of states calling for a constitutional convention so that their specific issues with the federal government can be addressed (March 21 Eagle). I would strongly encourage the Legislature to reconsider such a step. It is a surefire recipe for disaster.

Once a convention is called there is no way to restrict the areas of the Constitution that might be amended, and you can be sure that every special-interest group in the country will be working hard to get the Constitution amended in its favor. The result could be a Constitution that does everything but protect “we the people” or ensure our rights. Those who think that such a thing could never happen because three-fourths of the states would have to approve the changes have a much higher opinion of the rational thinking of most legislatures than I do.

The Constitution is not the cause of the problems in this country. The problems are caused by the people we elect to “support and defend” the Constitution.

Perhaps if people took a little more time before our elections to evaluate the candidates for office, we could reduce the number of those elected to office who are of questionable value. That would do far more good than changing the Constitution.

Not buying local

I have always been one of those foolish dreamers who believed in shopping close to home to support my local businesses. I would even pay a little more over the Internet price just to show support. Unfortunately, I now have to abandon that philosophy, thanks to the GOP in Topeka.

I’m sure most shoppers know that many Kansas businesses have enjoyed a zero-income-tax status for two years now, and that is obviously a main reason our state is in a very deep financial hole. But rather than admit they made a mistake, our arrogant Republican legislators are turning to others to fix the problem, such as homeowners. So in essence you and I are going to pay the price for businesses enjoying a free ride.

Have any of you noticed a drop in the price of common goods since the zero tax took effect? I certainly have not. If anything, the retail prices (except for oil) have continued to climb. Just more profit for the freeloaders.

So my earlier policy of shopping locally first has to be abandoned so I can save money to pay my rising taxes. I hate to do this, but our legislators have shown over and over that they do not listen to anyone unless their name rhymes with Koch.

Vote for Blubaugh

As a member of the District 4 Advisory Board, I can unequivocally say that Wichita City Council member Jeff Blubaugh has earned a full term.

Blubaugh’s accomplishments in his two short years in office included helping bring a 600,000-square-foot industrial park to Seneca and MacArthur, improved drainage along South Meridian, and fighting to bring accountability and transparency to City Hall. Through his work with Kansas Global Trade Services, Blubaugh has striven to bring manufacturing jobs back to Wichita.

Blubaugh has given the District 4 Advisory Board members ample time to state our opinions on issues facing the city. He consults with us on upcoming critical items and provides a detailed explanation about votes made on the council.

Join me April 7 in casting a vote for Jeff Blubaugh, and let’s continue to build a better southwest Wichita.

Great day for WSU

I watched the Shocks destroy the Jayhawks Sunday afternoon in Omaha. They showed they were the better, most-efficient team on the court. It was pressure, teamwork, a lot of heart and masterful coaching by Gregg Marshall that made the difference.

I have cheered for the University of Kansas during Final Fours and regionals I have attended during the past 30 years, but not Sunday. This time my team was playing the Jayhawks, and that’s all that mattered.

It was a great day for Shocker fans everywhere, not only because our team won the battle but because of how they did it. It was not just a great day for the basketball program, but also for Wichita State University and the city.

So on Monday I took a walk around the WSU campus. If you haven’t done that for a while, I encourage you to take the time. It will fill you with pride and provide you with many more reasons to support the Shockers.

Next stop – Cleveland. Go, Shocks.

WSU ingredients

Ingredients to create a Great Basketball Team: An intense coach from the East Coast who hates to lose. A very supportive wife (also intense) from the West Coast. A university primed and ready to provide the support and funding to create a great environment. Add seasonings: ethics, integrity and honesty to set an excellent example for players, fans and community. Mix all together, put in the middle of the country, and “bake” as many years as possible. Place on a platter created from the fan base that will always be there for the team – win or lose. Serve “angry” to the rest of the basketball nation. Go, Shockers.

This story was originally published March 25, 2015 at 7:59 AM with the headline "Letters on constitutional convention, buying local, Blubaugh, Shockers."