Letters to the editor: Issue of Sept. 3, 2015

Drone potential ‘unlimited’

This is in response to the Aug. 20 News Chieftain article on drones and the proposal of Poway Mayor Steve Vaus to control them in our city.

For Poway to go it alone with legislation to control drones seems shortsighted and somewhat melodramatic. Wildfires have no boundary and there must be rules of engagement for these devices that crosses all boundaries.

There is state legislation being moved forward to deal with the issue. It is my opinion it would be best for Poway to devote our time and money to try and influence this legislation and get it moving. It seems a waste for Poway to pass its own law only to have it eventually replaced by a comprehensive state law that will take precedence. As Councilman Cunningham aptly points out, there will be legal issues. I ask, why should a small city like Poway voluntarily take on these issues?

Drones are considered a nuisance by many, but I believe they will eventually become a valuable tool used for public safety in most every discipline. I am sure we will eventually see them in the toolbox of many safety agencies, including firefighters.

This is a technology that has great potential to enhance safety. For example, three firefighters in Washington recently lost their lives while fighting a fire because the wind unexpectedly shifted and they were unable to escape. Is it possible to design a drone, or a squadron of drones, that could withstand these extreme temperatures while monitoring environmental parameters that could have provided an early warning that could have possibly saved brave souls in situations like this? The potential is unlimited.

Tom Yarnall

Poway

Parents, consider OSU

If and when you are ready to send your kids off to college, please consider Oregon State University.

I recently spent about 20 days on and around the Corvallis, Ore., campus with my incoming freshman son, Jordan Choukair. A record-setting kicker at Poway High School, he received a four-year ride to play with the Beavers football team.

My first reaction to Corvallis was what a beautiful town; is all green with lots of water all around. OSU is a beautiful campus.

I literally didn’t see Jordan for more than five minutes a day, as twice-a-day practice and team meetings took up every daylight hour, so I had a chance to go around town and meet the nicest people ever. Jordan also fell in love with the college town and the caring coaching staff, headed by coach Gary Andersen and including special teams coordinator Ilaisa Tuiaki.

Jordan also fell in love with the fans. One of my last memories of him before leaving Corvallis was on Family Day, when the team was signing autographs. He said it was the biggest highlight of the fall camp.

Go Beavers.

John Choukair

(Former NFL kicker)

Poway

Letters to the editor should be limited to 250 words and must include the author’s name and community of residence.

Letters may be emailed to editor@pomeradonews.com or composed online at www.pomeradonews.com. They may also be mailed to U-T Community Press, 14023 Midland Road, Poway, CA 92064.