Letters to the Editor

+ Roundabouts not a good match for boat ramp
Dear Editor:
I just read your story about the future roundabouts on U.S. 41 at Sixth, 10th and 14th streets. It seemed odd that one major attraction at that intersection wasn’t mentioned at all — the most-popular boat ramp in Sarasota County. Roundabouts are great, however, when navigated with a vehicle with a large boat trailer it is a recipe for trouble. Not to mention the fact that the plans will limit access to the ramp to only one entrance-exit. 

As a local business owner and an avid boater, I am deeply concerned that this issue is being overlooked. Shouldn’t this issue be brought up? This decision will certainly affect a large number of Sarasota residents — including charter captains, law enforcement, the Offshore Grand Prix and marine-repair facilities / boat builders who rely on this ramp.
Harry Owen
Sarasota

+ Civil Service Board protects its own
Dear Editor:
Officer Jay Childers’ videotaped beating of a handcuffed prisoner is well documented. No assault charge was ever brought against this officer. Now, Sarasota’s Civil Service Board has voted to ignore that tape and accept the testimony of another police officer who stated under oath that Childers “pushed” or “shoved,” not “kicked,” the prisoner. It’s not hard to see the difference between a kick with the foot and a shove with the hand.

This just proves the lie to protect one’s own mentality is alive and well at the Sarasota Police Department. And, as far as the Civil Service Board? It’s about the money ... legal costs for Sarasota, going forward with this officer’s continued appeal.
R. James Beam
Sarasota