As we were: A way to reduce smog

25 Years ago

Sept. 23, 1987

‘Smog-buster’ car is effective option

SAN FRANCISCO — California Senator Pete Wilson has called for the widespread adoption of methanol-burning automobiles as one of the most effective means of reducing the level of smog.

“The methanol car should more appropriately be called the smog-buster,” Wilson said. “It offers the best option for cities in violation of the Clean Air standards to dramatically reduce dangerous levels of ozone.”

At a press conference in front of a Chevron service station, Wilson demonstrated a 1986 Ford LTD Crown Victoria “flex” car, which can burn M85 methanol (85 percent methanol and 15 percent gasoline) or gasoline or any combination of the two …

“Automakers are hesitant to produce methanol-burning cars until such a fuel is readily available,” Wilson said. “And oil companies are reluctant to market methanol until more cars are manufactured.” …

To encourage the manufacturing of methanol-burning automobiles, Wilson has introduced legislation that would offer incentives to auto makers. In return for producing “flex” cars that burn methanol, auto manufacturers will be allowed to market a larger number of gas-inefficient luxury cars…

 

60 Years ago

Sept. 25, 1947

Historic Site Group Named

The appointment of a committee on the permanent marking of historic sites in the county as a part of the preparation for the observance of the centennial of the discovery of gold at Coloma was a high-light of the September meeting of the county centennials committee, held Monday evening at the courthouse.

The committee will consist of three members of Marguerite Parlor No. 12, N.D.G.W., Beverly Cola, Geneva Rossi and Ruth Thomas, and four members of the Placerville Parlor No. 9, N.S.G.W., J. G. Leonardi, A. J. Orelli, Oscar Reeg and Joseph Quigley, serving with Wallace M. Ripley, the centennials co-ordinator.

Mr. Ripley revealed that a letter has been written on behalf of the committee to Rodney Richardson, state centennials co-ordinator, relative to the suggestion that a Coloma gold centennial postage stamp be issued next year and urging that he bring the matter to the attention of the State Centennials Commission for their early endorsement and action …

 

Discovery Day Is Urged As Holiday

Governor Earl Warren will be urged to declare January 24, 1948, a state holiday if action instituted at a meeting of the county centennials committee Monday night is carried through to conclusion …

 

105 Years ago

Sept. 21, 1907

A Great Artist Coming

A treat is in store for the lovers of classic literature, in the coming of Margaret Barry, who will be heard in recital next Wednesday evening at the Methodist Episcopal Church. The local Shakespeare clubs have combined to bring to our town one of whom Hon. Henry Watterson says, — “Her name and fame will go down with the great artists of the world.”

Hon. Wm. J. Bryan says, — “A wonderful personality; great magnetism; the best I have ever heard.”

From the New York Herald, — “She held the vast audience spellbound. The greatest reader of our age.”

The program for Wednesday evening includes three scenes from Victor Hugo’s masterpiece “Les Miserables” and scenes from the “Merchant of Venice,” “King John,” and “Macbeth.”