Readers at National Review Online had a chance this week to read Daren Bakst‘s insights about state energy policies. The John Locke Foundation’s legal and regulatory policy analyst wrote a column outlining “three simple things” states can do to develop sound energy policies. National Public Radio’s Web site republished Bakst’s column. Speaking of energy issues, JLF communications director Mitch Kokai discussed wind power proposals for the Pamlico Sound during an appearance on this week’s “Political Connections” program on News 14 Carolina. (Kokai also joined Curtis Wright on WLTT Radio’s “Morning Beat” program this week to discuss state education spending problems and a controversy surrounding the pending release of convicted murderers and rapists whose “life” sentences are set to expire soon because of a legal loophole.)