We share the planet
Dave King is correct (2/11, Letters) that polar bears do not vote. But they do matter. The loss of this animal represents a change so drastic in our climate that it will affect humans, even those in Leawood.
Non-renewable resource depletion, habitat loss, over-population and climate change must not be political issues. We exist on the same planet, and gross inequities aside, breathe the same air and drink the same water.
King is also correct: we’ve been scammed — scammed into believing that coal, oil and natural gas are the answer. However, world population has surpassed the peak of world oil supply and demand for this resource has only begun. Frantic drilling, mining and deforestation will only exacerbate planet destruction.
If fear paralyzes us, we will certainly see earth’s demise. If we join together, help educate one another, change our habits, and demand smart leaders, perhaps we can reverse our destructive course.
Barbara Brede
Kansas City
Longtime ValentinesI would “simply and sweetly” add another category of lovers to Kansas City Star writer Cindy Hoedel’s “Say ‘I love you’ simply, sweetly” (2/10, H+H): The older, more seasoned lovers who still celebrate every day as if it’s Valentine’s Day.
It may not take a “power box” or a keepsake or flowers or even a Valentine card (though those things are nice.)
It may be as simple as saying a prayer of thanksgiving — for still being here and together, for being faithful and responsible, for being in tune to one another, for consideration and cooperation and conversation, for sharing a look or good book or good movie.
And, of course, for saying “I love you” many times during the day and hugs for nothing.
Thank you, Lord, for my Valentine of 45 years.
Mary Pat Miller
Overland Park
Teachers undervalued“Education majors opt for math and science” (2/11, Local) left out a key issue for school districts today. As boomers retire, districts will see a shortage of teachers in all fields. Inadequate pay fails to lure dedicated workers to the career.
It’s sad when college students turn to teaching only when other jobs are scarce, as though teaching is a bottom-of-the-barrel choice. But to give incentives to just math and science teachers? Where does that leave the rest of us? I hear horror stories from young married teachers, trying to raise a family and pay off student loans. Are they and veteran teachers not worthy of more money, too?
Thank goodness, you left out the old cliché, “I didn’t go into teaching for the money.” We didn’t, but what’s wrong with wanting to be paid well after eight years of college and while working under the pressure of federal testing? No wonder college students shun teaching jobs when contemplating careers.
I am in teaching because I love what I do. I truly wish society would regard teachers as important as doctors and lawyers and pay us accordingly. School districts, look at the big picture and do the right thing for all teachers.
Cindy Dial
Paola, Kan.
Animals and staphRecently in the news, at least 10 reputable medical studies have reported that antibiotic overuse in concentrated animal factory farms helps breed MRSA, the dreaded antibiotic-resistant superbug that causes deadly staph infections.
Reputable medical organizations, such as the Missouri Association of Osteopathic Physicians and Surgeons, have called for a moratorium on building any new concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs) in Missouri until the hazards to the health and welfare of Missouri citizens can be resolved and citizen safety can be reasonably assured.
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