More readers praise police helicopter use

I recently graduated from the Newport Beach Police Academy and, as

a former hippy, incredibly liberal, flag-waving ranter from the ‘60s,

now as a senior citizen, I have never been more impressed with our

police in my life. I have been involved with many.

The professionalism, the quality, the caring, the learning edict,

the absolute dedication of our police officers in Newport Beach is

outstanding, each and every one is a gem. And we absolutely,

definitely need the helicopter (“Residents seek quiet on Newport

front,” July 30).

In fact, many years ago, it helped rescue my grandson, who was

young, left the house, and we were petrified that he had ended up in

the bay. How it happened, it doesn’t matter. What matters was the

police dogs were there, the helicopter was there. I have never been

so relieved to have so many caring people.

I can’t begin to tell you how much more dedicated and professional

the department is since then. So to Newport Beach police: Blessings,

I can’t thank you enough, and to anybody that would want to violate

the sanctity of the security and safety of the city we live, shame.

IRENE KANE

Lido Isle

I’m very surprised that someone would be so shortsighted as to

allow that to be a disturbing noise. I think it’s a comforting noise.

I was for 30 years in the helicopter business. I was a pioneer in the

business, and I can tell you anybody that has an umbrella, such as we

have here, should sleep better if these helicopters once in a while

interrupt our umbrella with their blades, which are now very quiet as

opposed to the other models.

I think it’s outrageous that someone would complain about someone

watching over them. It adds great support to the local police,

probably saving some police officers’ lives and some people’s lives

in being able to do the things they can do from above. I think it’s

shortsighted. Now let’s keep them flying.

RON SMITH

Newport Beach

I think the helicopters are a very important thing in my life and

when I hear them go over, I’m very happy. I know they’re hunting for

someone, or they’re trying to find someone that has hurt someone or

is going to hurt someone.

I think it’s the most ridiculous thing I ever heard to say such a

comment as Rene Jacober did. And I’m sorry to think that an adult

would think that way in our United States of America.

We’ve had enough problems in our country, so let’s have a little

peace and quiet and happiness.

GEORGIA BROOKS

Costa Mesa

With regard to the helicopter debate, it seems like a common-sense

approach is appropriate. As residents, do we not have the

responsibility to look at how and why our money is being spent? How

much dangerous or violent crime do we really have in the Newport-Mesa

area? Is this what the choppers are being used for? Or are they also

being used for traffic stop backup? What is really necessary to keep

peace in our communities? Do we really need two helicopters?

It is reassuring to know that we have these high-tech tools and

public servants to keep the peace. There is also something to be said

for the deterrent effect of the airborne umbrella.

However, let’s keep it reasonable and to a minimum. Living on the

Eastside, it seems like there is a specific route these choppers take

going to and from Newport. Maybe they vary the route, but there is a

definite pattern. Can’t they fly higher? Are there specific areas

that choppers orbit? I’d be interested to find out.

Some may find the roof-shaking pounding of a passing helicopter

reassuring, but I think most would find it annoying, especially when

it happens frequently. Part of the reason people live in our

communities is because of the safe environment. However, another

reason is for the peace and quite. Let’s have our air cover, but only

what’s absolutely needed.

TIM REED

Costa Mesa