'Rare view'

By Jason Paukovits
Fresno

(Updated Monday, December 30, 2002, 4:24 PM)

Did you notice the difference in Fresno recently? Long-time residents may have forgotten the magnificent view of the Sierra Nevada that can be seen from anywhere in the city.

Those new to the Valley probably have never seen them. For too many months of the year, the haze of dust and air pollution obscures our view.

The Bee did a tremendous job summarizing the challenges that our region faces with regard to air pollution in its special report "Last Gasp" Dec. 15. I hope that residents do not continue to ignore the issue and go on with life as if the problem does not exist. Perhaps the most important point made was that we all have to do our part -- it is everyone's problem. If people are not willing to make even minor changes, we will not see any progress. I moved from the Northeast, where it often reaches single-digit temperatures, to be closer to family. I absolutely love fires in the winter, but will pass on using the fireplace in my home this year to help a little bit.

Fresno does not need another stigma attached to its reputation, which is likely if we continue on the road to the worst air quality in the country. Let's work as a community to solve the problem, stop placing blame on someone (anyone) else and take pride in our region. Maybe this rare view of the mountains will become commonplace, something we can appreciate all year.