To the editor:
Recently, we returned from a church mission in Spain. We looked forward to the good things at home. However, I was shocked to discover that Joe Cannon has had the temerity to present himself as an acceptable candidate for the U.S. Senate.In Cannon's campaign propaganda, he has indicated concern for the needs and well-being of the people. Isn't it true that the greatest problem in our area is air pollution? Cannon not only has not proposed an acceptable solution for this problem, he has been the major contributor to the problem.
The Bureau of Air Quality has shown graphically that Geneva Steel is responsible for 59 percent of the total PM10 pollution in Provo.
I recommend that everyone read Dr. C. Arden Pope's scientific study of the problem, which was published in May 1989 by the American Journal of Public Health. Dr. Pope told me personally that the pollution problem hasn't significantly changed since 1989.
Dr. Pope's study indicates that increased admissions to the hospital for pneumonia, pleurisy, bronchitis and asthma corresponded with increased levels of PM10 air pollution. These increased levels of PM10 occurred during the time Geneva Steel was operating and were nearly double the levels experienced during the winter months when the mill was closed.
All the emphasis on Geneva's contribution to our economy is more of a red herring than anything else. Geneva's supporters ignore the significant increase in medical costs for many families because of the air pollution produced by Geneva.
Jess R. Bushman
Provo