Ken Knowlton

To the editor,

I cannot even begin to describe how disgusted, sickened, saddened, and quite frankly PO’d I am at the debacle currently taking place in the Gulf of Mexico. It is impossible to believe that in 2010, we do not have a way to stop the flow of crude from continuing to pollute these waters, killing and maiming the fish, reptiles, birds, and mammals that live in and around it. This tragedy has literally destroyed their world, and seriously threatens ours.

It is even harder to believe that the “fail safe” equipment installed to prevent this from happening, FAILED! Now I am not about to question our need for oil. Fact: the world runs on oil-based products, and the likelihood of that changing anytime soon is nil. However, this catastrophe should provide a clarion call to all concerned that changes need, no, MUST be made to ensure that this type of accident be the last. Do I advocate that all drilling everywhere be stopped? Absolutely not! But the safeguards currently in place MUST be checked, tested and changed wherever and whenever necessary. The overall cost (that which can be figured in dollars) of this disaster will be astronomical; the devastation to the wildlife and water quality, insurmountable; and the cost to clean up and fully recover (if ever) impossible to conceive. These reasons alone should guarantee that changes will be made.

Now to the pinheads playing political football with this disaster — two words: “SHUT UP!” This is to ALL sides. Put your efforts into finding a solution instead of causing more problems. I do not care who you think is to blame, who should have done whatever, whenever. Just “SHUT UP” and be useful. This disaster will adversely affect all Americans no matter what political side they occupy. There will be time enough to play your blame games, for finger pointing, for the accusations and denials. For now, PLEASE put away your selfish political agendas and just work together to fix it. Remember, tragically eleven families lost loved ones.

And finally, to those people who believe that there is a God, please pray for a miracle. For those who don’t, pray that you are wrong!

Ken Knowlton

Belmont