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A Rockefeller reminder

Dear Editor: “As it marks its 100th anniversary this November, the National Audubon Society will present the 2005 Audubon Medal on Nov. 15 to the Rockefeller family for its record of philanthropy and public service. The medal recognizes the contributions by the first family of conservation as core civic values at a time when those values are threatened. The term ‘Rockefeller Republican’ implies a rejection of the extremism that characterizes so much of the current Congress’ [majority party] and the administration’s disregard for the environment.”For generation after generation, the Rockefeller approach has been bipartisan, stressing the vital center while weaving a strong pattern of land stewardship into society’s fabric.” Frank Graham Jr.I wish that the recent LJWorld commentary, http://www.ljworld.com, Nov. 5, would recognize that the “pecking” by the mountain bluebird (Sen. Harry Reid), supported by the cardinal (Sen. Rockefeller) was necessary to get the attention of the meadowlark (Sen. Roberts); some are concerned about the meadowlark’s intelligence reports when that senator has already gone way out on the limb in support of the ill-advised Bush doctrine of pre-emption. Many of our favorite birds are now flying away from “the shrub,” Bush, and trying to advise the meadowlark to do the same.What a shame that the Kansas senators are not in favor of protecting Alaska’s willow ptarmigans in the Alaska Wildlife Refuge, but rather will trash the place for a six-month oil supply instead of institute a national energy policy that includes conservation.For more information about Audubon’s centennial celebration, See http://www.audubon.org.Sven Erik Alstrom Aspen and Lawrence, Kan.