Mailbag:

Thank you for helping publicize the outrageous actions of the “run amok” California Coastal Commission (“Property owners fight for picnic spot,” Feb. 19; “Court rules to remove picnic spot,” March 4). We commend your publication for covering the terrible abuse of power by the commission concerning the McNamees’ beach property. American freedom is threatened by unelected agencies such as this that extend power and authority far beyond the purpose originally intended by California voters.

My family and I have had the good fortune of being guests of the McNamees for more than 30 years. I have seen them open up their private property to other families on the beach in need of a restroom, refreshments, use of a shower and administration of first aid.

Their improvements on their private property they so generously share with the public are an enhancement to Corona del Mar State Beach, and it is a travesty what the commission is doing.

They are not elected officials, and they have no right making property-rights decisions protected by the Constitution of the United States.

I have personal experience with the commission, and anyone dealing with them will tell you that they are an aggressive, bullying, intimidating and disingenuous commission that needs to be reined in.

Mark Ward

Life can be happy without marijuana

I arrived in Costa Mesa in 1941. As I grew up, no one needed or heard of marijuana or tequila. People had good values and neighbors were there for each other. At 5 years old, it was safe for me to go to the store for my mother.

Times were hard and parents did not have much money, but we were loved and watched after by our family, neighbors, friends and the people of our town. It is sad that some people feel that marijuana or tequila are so important (Mailbag: “Pot should be available like tea,” Jan. 29). I wish I could share my memories of a happier way of life.

Dorothy L. Bayliss