As the workshop convenes today (see Events page) to discuss the Metcalf Energy Center proposed for the Santa Teresa/Coyote area, the Bay Area Air Quality Management District has declared today a Spare the Air Day.

"We expect a really smoggy day, the worst air quality day of the year," said District spokeswoman Teresa Lee. Ozone (of which NOx emissions are the major component) is expected to exceed health standards in the Santa Clara Valley.

The proposed power plant will emit 186 tons of NOx per year.

Conditions such as those expected for today can hurt those with respiratory and heart conditions, as well as the young and elderly. Last year, our area had 23 Spare the Air Days.

For more info, see www.sparetheair.org.

Elizabeth Cord