Beach Volleyball

The California Coastal Commission acted shortsightedly in shutting professional beach volleyball out of public beaches (May 18). There is enough beach square-footage in California to permit its occasional use for various public purposes, including presenting professional beach volleyball to the public in the only setting in which, by definition, it can be played. The concept is really no different than allowing private orchestras to perform in public theaters, pro teams to play in public arenas, or private hotels to operate in national parks. There is no need for a blanket state policy that admission cannot be charged for events at public beaches during warmer months.

The state policy ought to be that localities should decide where, when and how the beach facilities in their jurisdictions should be used for such events, as well as a fair rent to compensate for the promoter’s use of the land and necessary expenses. I urge the Coastal Commission to reconsider so that Californians can continue to enjoy professional coastal and beach events.

ALLAN J. ABSHEZ

Los Angeles