To the editor:

The Lawrence Journal-World reported on June 12 that the Kansas Chamber of Commerce is working to re-elect “pro-business” lawmakers – “pro-business” being defined mainly as those who voted in favor of the coal-burning plants.

It’s unfortunate that the Kansas Chamber of Commerce is choosing to dig in its heels and fight to protect outdated, polluting, non-sustainable energy technology. What if, instead, we look to the future, think of our grandchildren’s grandchildren and choose clean, renewable energy sources?

Wind and solar power, as well as hydroelectricity (such as that produced by the good folks at Bowersock), are plentiful in our state, do not pollute our air, do not require the land to be stripped for coal and do not contribute to global warming.

The course bravely set by Secretary Bremby and wisely defended by Gov. Sebelius is one we should encourage. I hope the Kansas Chamber of Commerce will reconsider and join the rest of us who are embracing a brighter tomorrow.

Lynate Pettengill,
Lawrence