There's a new effort to pressure a group of state and county lawmakers to approve a financing plan for a new Sonics arena. Form letters are going to legislators and county council members saying that as a "voting taxpayer my expectation is that our government will actively work to retain the cultural amenities of our region."

The letters come from SonicsCentral.com. They are going to members of the Senate Ways and Means Committee, the House Finance Committee, the House Community Economic Development & Trade Committee and the King County Council. Sonics supporters are told on the automated web mailer, "It helps very much if you can add a personal touch as well." Not everyone does that, though. One lawmaker got this e-mail:

Subject: Your Name wants to keep the Sonics in Washington

Dear Legislators:

I am writing this letter to encourage our local government to find a solution to retain the Seattle SuperSonics and Storm. As a voting taxpayer my expectation is that our government will actively work to retain the cultural amenities of our region. It is not sufficient to simply wait for team ownership to provide a solution. Action and leadership are required on your part.

Failure to find a solution to this problem will be a major consideration in upcoming elections. If the teams leave I can assure you that my vote will be affected.

Regards,
Your Name
Your City