Over 1000 fires burn out of control in California as I write on America's Independence Day--the 4th of July from Vancouver Island. 
Smoke is thick throughout California, and people with lung issues are suffering, and praying that Schwarzenneger bans fireworks, which will create more smoke and pose increased fire risks.
To give you an idea as to the suffering of Californians, here's a letter sent to me last week from a woman concerned about breathing, smoke and the 4th of July festivities.
Hi,
I just found your web site and thought I'd share the following with you. We live in Fresno, California, and are experiencing lots of wood smoke from all the fires in our state. It is impossible to breathe outside, and if I sent you a photo of our skyline, you would think it was shot in China. We are surviving by using two heavy duty Austin Air Purifiers in our home, and a smaller portable unit in our car when we have to go out.
So, how come the governor of our state is allowing fireworks to be sold and used this upcoming July 4th? Wouldn’t a strong leader care about the asthmatic children in the San Joaquin Valley. I can’t remember the percentage of kids with asthma, but it is one hell of a high number, as well as adults with lung problems and our elderly? Wouldn’t a strong caring governor temporally ban the use of fireworks during this air quality crisis?
I’m sure I’m not alone on this issue and wish there was someway to put pressure on the governor.
Judith
As a result of this letter, I encouraged Judith and her friends...
to write Schwarzenneger because concerned citizens can make a difference.
We made a difference, stopping the aerially pesticide spraying on N. California communities and keeping California State Parks open for public use.
Even without fires, summer smog in S. California is rough on the lungs. The sun cooks air pollution sitting in the basin, creating a toxic stew. I've been in Los Angeles when fires burn out of control, and it is hard to breathe, and creates nausea and head-aches.
I am incredibly fortunate to be on Vancouver Island right now. I'm so grateful.
Photos are Sacramento in smoke and Comox Valley, Vancouver Island.
