I am a proud, second-generation fisherman in Avila Beach. I was very disappointed to hear that my very own representative on the SLO County Board of Supervisors, Bruce Gibson, believes that the way I make my living is insignificant. His fervent support of the Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary clearly shows his complete lack of concern for one of the biggest industries in his district.

I can only guess that Supervisor Gibson is unaware of the hundreds of families and businesses that our local fishing industry supports. If Supervisor Gibson were aware of the vast amount of government agencies and bureaucracies that already closely monitor and protect our marine ecosystem, he would have seen just how needless and costly this new bureaucracy would have been.

Maybe Bruce needs to spend a bit less time pleasing his left-wing comrades in San Luis Obispo, and little more time protecting the livelihoods of his hard-working constituents and their families here in his own district.

-- Michael Cohen - Avila Beach