MAILBAG:

Ron Vanderhoff’s rather lengthy article on dolphin damage (“Famous dolphin topiaries vandalized,” April 5), made me wonder if perhaps the perps in this bit of unnecessary destruction were just as fed up with those tacky and trashy decorations as are the rest of us who, unfortunately, weren’t part of the poll.

A little decoration a couple of times a year is acceptable but quickly becomes trite in acknowledgment of every commercial holiday.

With Roger’s Gardens involved in a new landscape scheme, we should expect something far more appropriate as the centerpiece of this delightful seaside community. Drastic changes are called for if we are to approach the sumptuous beauty the nearby Del Mar and La Jolla areas.

JANE LOWRY

Newport Beach

Construction brings out drivers’ worst behavior

The Caltrans project on West Coast Highway from the Arches to Dover Drive has been a real nightmare. It used to take about just a few minutes to get from one end to the other, now it takes sometimes 15-20 minutes. Since this project has started I have seen people yelling at other drivers, cutting them off, honking and seeing the paramedics get through. Nice little Newport Beach looks like downtown Los Angeles. Why don’t they do this at night!

Bob Reno

Newport Beach

Seniors needs better driving solutions

All seniors should take a driver’s test every year.

We would have many seniors give up their cars if we had better taxi service for them. The Yellow Taxi Service is only available for doctor appointments and to pick up a prescription.

Maybe you can convince Oasis to get rid of the bus with stairs and have the taxi service.

Mary J. McLaughlin

Newport Beach

Sudanese problems will spread without help

Hundreds of thousands of Darfurians are taking refuge in Chad due to the present genocide taking place.

Reports indicate the Sudanese government has provided logistical support to the recent rebel offensive in N’djamena.

It is apparent that Khartoum will stop at nothing to finish the murderous campaign it started in Darfur. The U.N. Security Council must authorize targeted sanctions against Sudanese officials who are delaying peace in the region by aiding the Chadian rebels, stalling the deployment of protection forces for Chad and Darfur and supporting violence in Darfur.

The U.S., the U.K., France and China must ensure that protection forces are deployed immediately in Chad and Darfur.

Sudan is interfering in Chad, and China is enabling it.

Victims of genocide in Darfur and Chad have been waiting for help. The time to act is now.

PATTY LEAGUE

Newport Beach