January 9, 2002

“Wind just seems to be happening,” says Matthew Rubin, the proud new owner of the former radar base in East Haven.

Mr. Rubin has plans to make the old base into a wind farm. He also wants to increase public access and might even set up a museum about the cold war there.

A wind farm is a fantastic idea. Any energy we can derive from the wind, which certainly IS happening already (especially in places like that) is energy we don’t need to buy from the war-torn Middle East or dig up in the Alaskan wilderness.

The aesthetics of the towers might come into question. Certainly we have wondered about the concept of cell towers springing up all over the Vermont countryside, and wind towers might have a similar look. But their function is so appealing that it seems different.

No one complains about the silos that stick up above the farm landscape. Or white church steeples sticking up in the villages all over Vermont. That’s because we know they serve a noble, necessary function and they bring to mind great traditions — our work ethic and actions that demonstrate faith and the golden rule. These are more important than being able to talk and drive at the same time.

Renewable energy is a critical need for this country at this time and for the future. A wind farm could cut down on pollution, make Vermont more self-sufficient and possibly even create some jobs. Those wind towers would look just great and start a new Vermont tradition based on two old ones — ingenuity and independence.

The museum and public access for trails would only enhance the overall project.

We wish more power to Mr. Rubin. Literally. — B.M.D.