Letter: Cut Blue Angels From Show

Published: Friday, April 11, 2014 at 12:25 a.m.


I live in South Lakeland, near Lakeland Linder Regional Airport. The Sun 'n Fun event is always something we put up with. It creates traffic issues and, above all, noise.

Living near an airport is just part of the deal when you purchase a home. There will be noise and congestion, and you accept it or don't live there.

The absence of the Blue Angels last year was not a bad thing for us, and we enjoyed the small experimental planes, the ultralights and antique military craft.

The return of the Blue Angels put things back to unbearable once again. They are not only extremely loud, but fly extremely low over a very heavily populated area.

God forbid there were to be an accident with these superfast jet aircraft flying only inches apart. An entire section of Lakeland could be wiped out.

I feel they should not be included in the event for safety and noise issues. If these planes are to continue their shows, then do it elsewhere.

I am not alone in this opinion. My neighbors have the same concerns.

There are plenty of other aircraft at the show to pull a crowd.

As usual, it's all about money in the end.

The Blue Angels boost attendance, but does the extra revenue help Lakeland's economy? I doubt it.

JIM PHILLIPS

Lakeland

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