I wonder how many people made the connection between two Aug. 24 front-page stories: Railroad man gives views on coal,” and “Household income is down since the recession ended.” In just 12 years, household income has dropped 10 percent and at the same time costs of everyday necessities have doubled. With gasoline, it has tripled.
Now we are witnessing an outcry about coal, which supplies 50 percent of our electricity. This “save the Earth” mentality is hard to quiet; it contains a small grain of truth. Yes, I want clean water and air with affordable fuel, and we can have it all without committing economic suicide. People should think twice and do the math before embracing a new green energy program.
Sid Sutherland
Brush Prairie
