As a long-time friend of the Akarlilar family, it is outrageous to call them “flamboyant billionaires” (“Off the Deep End,” Chuck Bennett, Aug. 1).

They are down to earth, philanthropic and environmentally conscious. I’m sure the Landmarks Preservation Commission will make the right decision regarding a family pool that will be visible only to them, and I hope the apricot tree can be saved.

Riki Shaw, Manhattan