A fossil fuel relic 

In the Feb. 1 edition, Al Fonzi's "Tarnishing the Golden State" makes it clear that he is a relic of the 20th century. He seems to think that the fossil fuel industry should be allowed unregulated consumption of whatever can be sucked up from the earth as if there were no consequence to such rapaciousness. In his view, more oil and gas production will lower costs for everything that comes from fossil fuels, which apparently justifies permanent damage to our planet and the life upon it. I'd guess Mr. Fonzi would applaud the installation of oil derricks all along our treasured coastline.

It is the 21st century. We live in a time where our very existence is threatened by the continued burning of fossil fuels. Growth and prosperity can no longer come from unfettered fossil fuel production. These are indeed new times, and I hope the New Times newspaper will find other writers who can contribute new solutions, not rehash old ones from a century that created the problem.

Sara Kelly

Los Osos