In response to the growing need, many alternative energy solutions are coming to the forefront of technology such as wind energy, biodiesel and ethanol fuel.

These safe solutions will only help our agricultural economy - the backbone of America - and help achieve self-sufficiency, freedom from foreign oils and reduction of hazardous byproducts.

We must welcome these programs if we are to maintain our modern needs and preserve our environment.

I am very surprised and disturbed by the strong opposition met by the White Oak Wind Farm proposals.

In an electricity-dependent modern world, wind energy seems to be an answered prayer!

Those in opposition are unwilling to sacrifice their "landscape view" for it.

If progress and technology had been rejected throughout history for the sake of appearance, where would we be today? Would we have power lines, dams, cell phone towers, water towers, grain elevators, bins, silos, railways, factories, skyscrapers or urban developments?

We need to stop obsessing over visual drawbacks, realizing what we would be losing if we rejected such a proposal. I would much rather see a tall windmill turning in the breeze than a nuclear or coal-burning power plant in full operation.

The accusations of wind energy's inefficiency are irrelevant in the face of a free, safe resource.

When the windmills are paid off, the wind is free! The mere existence of wind farm companies is the result of many years of research and successful operation in other parts of the country.

Progress should not be halted for unfounded reasons. Resources such as fossil fuels will run out someday. This world contains an unlimited amount of wind and it will never run out.We need to jump at the opportunity to utilize it.

What will our future world be like if we chase these safe solutions away?

Buck Henry

Rural Gridley