Letters on state budget priorities, Kapaun, youth football ugliness
Citizens, students deprived of needs
When I reflect on the financial plan our governor and legislators are pursuing, waiving state income taxes for all pass-through business income, I view our fellow residents and Kansas students as deprived of their major basic needs of adequate health care and adequate education.
I view education for all as a basic right in the U.S., which is why we have compulsory national education laws for all. John Dewey, philosopher and educational reformer, taught that education is not preparation for later life but “the full meaning of the present life.”
Because of the priorities of Gov. Sam Brownback and legislative leadership, paying the state’s bills is a major challenge. I find it so sad that Kansas public school students and residents with health needs are not considered sufficiently worthy to receive adequate acknowledgment for their growth and development.
In 2016, the terms of all Kansas legislators expire. It is therefore up to all of us Kansas residents to vote what direction we want the state to pursue.
Doris Weller, Wichita
Fast-track Kapaun
I believe that the cause for possible sainthood for Catholic priest Emil Kapaun should be placed on “the fast track” (“Kapaun’s sainthood journey may take years longer,” Nov. 10 Eagle).
Kapaun’s heroic acts were above and beyond the call of duty during the Korean War. He saved lives, and many survivors credit their survival as a miracle due to Kapaun’s sacrifices and acts of charity and faith.
With Pope Francis coming to North America again this February, with a visit to Mexico, it would be nice if the pontiff would swing up to Pilsen for such a ceremony. Many prayers would be answered.
James A. Marples, Esbon
Bad role models
My wife and 3-year-old daughter were very excited Saturday to see some eighth-grade boys play competitive football, have some fun and enjoy the perfect weather in Lawrence. What transpired was extremely disappointing, embarrassing and upsetting.
The teams we watched were both from Wichita. We spent the afternoon appalled as the coaches cussed at these boys, the referees and parents of the opposing teams during the game. Both coaches on one of the teams smoked cigarettes at halftime, just yards from the boys. Then at the game’s end, coaches from both sides had words, and a full-out argument broke out with parents, coaches and players all involved.
These kids are at such a pivotal time in their lives and need positive guidance, not what I observed. I want to challenge good Wichita men and women to step up and help. I was born and raised in the area and know what good people live there.
Nate Thurman, Leawood
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This story was originally published November 10, 2015 at 6:05 PM with the headline "Letters on state budget priorities, Kapaun, youth football ugliness."