Offshore drilling not the answer

I applaud Congressional candidate Steve Greenberg for his recent discussion of developing clean and efficient energy alternatives and encouraging energy efficiency. These steps really put us on the right track toward lowering gas prices, creating jobs for Americans and stopping global warming.

I was, however, disappointed to read in the article "Congressional hopeful offers energy plan" that Steve Greenberg still supports offshore drilling. Drilling for more oil is nothing but a distraction away from the real solutions. Even the Bush administration admits that if we drill today, we will not see a drop of that oil in our gas tanks for at least 10 years.

I would like to see Steve Greenberg looking toward the future for real solutions for Americans instead of the past. Thirty-two years have passed since we last increased vehicle efficiency standards. Since the current administration took office gas prices have gone up 250 percent. Sticking with the same failed energy policies that brought us skyrocketing gas prices will not give consumers relief, now or anytime in the future.

I would like to see both Republican Steve Greenberg and Democrat Melissa Bean make gas prices, fuel-efficiency, and clean energy alternatives a nonpartisan issue by saying no to offshore drilling and saying yes to real solutions for global warming.

Barbara Lani

Woodstock