Mary Power Giacoletti hit the nail on the head with her commentary about the AQMD’s proposed ban followed by the unfortunate proposed compromise for wood burning on public beaches (“Douse the wood smoke,” June 27).
I live about 500 feet away from the 27 fire pits at the beach we call “Big Corona” in Corona del Mar, and have been involved in this action for a number of years. I guess I should feel good about being within the 700-foot buffer zone, but I know people beyond 700 feet who are suffering.
We’ve been called a lot of unpleasant names beyond “a-holes.” One local fanatic flies a banner on his balcony to “Save the Fire Pits,” knowing that the husband and wife across the street—directly above the pits—have lung cancer. Others call us racist, saying we are making up the science to keep minorities from coming to the beach!
While heartless comments are abundant, I’d like to let Mary know that her commentary gives hope that thoughtful people are out there. And I invite a visit to our local blog, woodsmokehealth.org, to see more of what we are doing and find contact e-mails for the AQMD Board.
It is only with the support of many and e-mails to the AQMD that we can hope to make a difference. The vote takes place on July 12, in Diamond Bar. Those concerned can e-mail the board of the AQMD.
This article appears in 55 Fiction 2013.