Re: The Optimist, January 21. “Prez’s party sets wrong precedent” by Sarah Carlson, Arts Editor

I just finished reading your comments concerning the extravagance of the Presidential inauguration festivities. It is noted that you use quotes from the N.Y. TIMES (“All the news that fits…”) and CNN (“Conservatives Need Not apply”). In fairness, perhaps you would be interested in considering some of the facts presented in this article from NEWSMAX.

I can agree in part, with many of the points you are making. However, it should be made clear that extravagance at these celebrations is not a “political party thing.” If so, then according to this article, President Roosevelt and the Democrats hold the record.

Some people will always argue over what is a “waste of money” or too extravagant. (You may not be old enough to remember the controversy over the GATA Fountain.) Could I make better use of forty million dollars? Possibly, but most likely many would disagree with my “distribution of the funds.”

As long as the celebration is being paid for by individuals and corporations and not tax money, I say, “Thank God we live in a country where we are celebrating freedom and all the blessings that are ours in this great United States of America.” Some people feel that is a celebration worth giving their money for. I will just thank them … and enjoy the party.

Bryan Boss
Class of ’60, Canton, PA