LBO letters to the editor 06.30.16

Muhammad Ali's legacy is deserved

Editor's note: The following letter was sent to the Longboat Observer in addition to William Ali, who wrote a letter to the editor that was printed in the June 22 issue.

Bill, I appreciate your comments about Ali, but most of all, thanks for your service to our country.

The opinion of the people all over the world confirms you're wrong; being truly a proven conscientious objector does not make him a coward. I guess we can't sit in judgment; everyone is entitled to a second chance.

Ali was a member of the Nation of Islam, but he always professed peace. He had many friends from all walks of life. His best friend was Jewish, "little brother" Billy Crystal.

The world is a better place since the 1950s and '60s, for better or worse — you can be the judge about this.

Ali was named the athlete of the last century and professed peace in his later years. He got 10 pages of coverage in the New York Times, maybe because of this.

Boxing goes back to 700 B.C., played by the gods of Olympus as a sport. No one is forcing boxers to get in the ring. It is the purse (money).

You eluded to Ali "blabbering," but you must know that builds the gate and attendance. 

Ali died not rich, but contrary.

James Tarsy

Bird Key

Return land acquisition funds to taxpayers

How should the town spend its $8 million windfall?  Here's a novel idea: return it to the taxpayers. I figure the average check is around $800.
Do not spend it on another civic project. And absolutely do not buy some land and take it off the tax rolls.

Tim Clarke

Longboat Key