Letters to the editor (Jan. 23, 2020)

Century II

After reading the headlines about Century II in the latest edition of The Wichita Eagle, I feel I must respond. I am a preservationist architect, having been involved with preserving historic buildings since the mid-80s. An old building is not necessarily historic, but a historic building is old (at least 50 years old).

As a summer architectural intern, I worked for the associate architects on Century II (Kruse, Roberts, Smith Architects). Even then, I could tell it would be a special building architecturally.

There can be several perimeters that help define a building as historic and worthy of saving for future generations. While having the architectural design heavily influenced by a famous architect might be one, there are others also. Has the building had a significant impact on the economic development of the city? Was the structure itself significant? Does the building retain the vast majority of its original design? Does the building help tell the story and influence the culture of downtown? Finally, I ask: Will we lose more than we gain by not saving Century II?

I feel the answer to all those questions is a very definite “yes.”

Riverfront development

I have a feeling we’re going about this the wrong way. Now that the estimates for an overhaul of the Wichita riverfront have been laid out at or above $1 billion in development, will that change the conversation? Instead of trying to fit pieces together as a puzzle to get to that total, maybe the question becomes: If you had $1 billion to invest in downtown Wichita, how would you proceed?

Simply razing Century II and plunking down a new performing arts and convention centers doesn’t really seem to justify the price tag. Consider that half of $1 billion landed our neighbors in Tulsa a world-class “Gathering Place” that will set their community apart for generations, and will earn exponential visits to the city from folks across the region and the globe. Maybe it’s prudent to match that investment here in Wichita with something similar, and leave the other half of $1 billion for renovation of the existing structures. In the end, you might end up saving an iconic building and gaining international appeal for creating a new and exciting venue for families, even if it means we have to give Tulsa the credit.

Impeachment trial

An open letter to Sen. Pat Roberts:

As a fellow military veteran and concerned Kansan, I ask you to use your seniority to call for witnesses and documents in the Senate impeachment trial. Congressmen rarely work together “across the aisle” because of political partisanship. Soldiers of all kinds learn to work together despite their differences. Many Congressmen seem afraid to speak up in opposition or vote against the current president. His actions regarding Ukraine violated the Constitution and he was impeached. If the president has nothing to hide, the Senate should hear blocked testimony from White House staff and review denied government documents before voting to acquit or remove.

After a long career as a senator, you have chosen to retire. I respect that you have been independent-minded and unafraid of criticism as you voted for and against legislature and appointments. While still in office, you can crown your legacy by prioritizing our constitutional democracy over party politics. You owe nothing to the current administration. I urge you to be a true patriot and call for witnesses and documents. John McCain, in his final acts as Senator, chose country over party and I pray you will do the same.

I respectfully remind the honorable senator of your oath of office to defend the Constitution. Please call for witnesses and documents in the Senate impeachment trial so the American people can hear testimony and read communications from those closest to the president. I believe this president has betrayed his oath of office and I hope you will not betray yours.

This story was originally published January 22, 2020 at 12:00 AM.