Letter: Kalida wind turbines will be detrimental

I write out of a mixture of puzzlement and sadness, as I overheard dear friends speaking out about what a joke my beloved hometown of Kalida has become in the midst of the “Great Turbine War of 2012.” First of all, I believe much of the press coverage has been skewed in support of KMI, the business that is promoting these imposing structures. Such media coverage is difficult to combat. Secondly, I feel my loved ones in Kalida, as well as others whose quality of life and property values will be impacted, have every right to protest the location of their planned installation.These turbines will rest in the midst of a residential area. Other communities with similar situations have found such placement to be detrimental on numerous levels.When I tried speaking out recently, I was silenced by a KMI official who called my place of business and complained. My administrator was diplomatic, respectful of both parties and fair. I was just so surprised a business would use such intimidation to silence a dissenter.As a member of the Ottawa community, I have been outspoken, facing commissioners, Village Council and school board members as I practiced my freedom of speech. I have never felt threatened for speaking out.There will be a free public screening of the documentary “Windfall” to be held at 7:30 p.m. today at the Kalida High School auditoria. It is an educational, informative and award-winning documentary on wind energy. Do I fear retribution in writing this? Yes, I do, but I was raised by parents who promoted honesty and advocacy.