(Editor's Note: The following letter was sent to Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton in January and is printed here at the author's request.)

We are all aware of the continuing increase in the cost of a barrel of oil and the escalating cost of gasoline. I think it is time to take a proactive stance in confronting this dilemma before it brings our country to economic collapse. Just because one can afford $4 or more a gallon and may drive a guzzling Hummer, SUV or luxury vehicle doesn't justify the consumption of fuel in this country.

In the '70s we had a gasoline shortage, which resulted in gas lines and different days to fuel our vehicles based on an odd or even license plate number. We also limited our highway speed to 55 miles per hour to conserve fuel, which, in turn, reduced fatalities on the road.

The time has come to go back to the '70s and make a statement that the United States will curb its dependence on oil. This will send a message that we will not be held hostage to foreign or domestic oil companies or their creative measures to increase their profits. In fact, it may be an incentive to actively explore alternative fuel sources more aggressively.

Although this is a "small step" it certainly beats doing nothing. Looking into the future of biofuels, alternative fuel and renewable energy resources is clearly the way to reduce dependency on oil but we must do something now, immediately.

I don't claim to be an economist but if we continue to do nothing the masses will go to work just to pay for their gasoline to go to work and with any luck they may be able to pay for heat and food and nothing else. This is not the formula for a vibrant economy. We must force the conservation of our fuels.

Thank you for your time and anticipated proactive posture in addressing this vital issue.

Gregory Yatzyshyn