As letters go that one is toxic toxic poison. Reads like a feudal baron speaking to his subjects. "Duke", it is. Old school and new school meanings.
I totally disagree. Why shouldn't Duke say no to extortion? The university already contributes BILLIONS to Durham's economy. How many BILLIONS MORE, exactly, will make you happy, bvw???
I also feel you are way off-base in your condescending comment about "volunteerism." It is those acts of kindness, concern and dedication, or "points of light", if you will, that the everyday citizen is going to remember - not the cash that Duke gives to it's PD.
I would like to know what fraction of the cumulative Durham payroll is paid by Duke. Maybe Duke should outsource those jobs to a community that would be more appreciative.