Laser 2 forestay, jib, and shroud question

I recently inherited my late dad’s Laser 2 (originally purchased in the USA ca. 1984). My dad and I sailed it together over many summers when I was younger but it has been over 15 years since I have been out on it and much more since we sailed it regularly. I am getting reacquainted with the rigging and had a couple of very basic questions,

1. My dad and I used a shackle to connect the forestay to the U-bolt on the prow. I see it is recommended to tie the forestay to the U-bolt Instead...

Laser 2 forestay, jib, and shroud question