Many ATV users
ride responsibly
Regarding the Jan. 15 editorial, "New ATV Park/Here's hoping":
I'm really appalled at this editorial concerning the new all-terrain vehicle park in Woodbine.
You state "so many riders of all-terrain vehicles and dirt bikes so often ride in anything but a gentlemanly fashion."
Where did that fact come from? Are you aware of how many organized clubs, competitions and other events promote safe, responsible riding? Again, it seems that the irresponsible acts of a few must dictate the norm for all. How pathetic.
And please stop using the environmental card. You print on paper from the very trees you talk about protecting. As for the Sierra Club, it has one agenda and Jeff Tittel does not have sole rights to Green Acres funds. This is taxpayer money for projects for all, not just birdwatchers, hikers and horseback riders.
As far as the Woodbine site goes, the 63 acres are not entirely ridable. Eventually, with this being the only legal riding area, it will become overcrowded and inadequate. The result: Fewer riders will use it and the ignorant few will no doubt resort to illegal riding. Then the state can say, "We gave you an area like you wanted, so use it or lose it." That's the way it works.
Instead of encouraging the ban of this sport and pastime, The Press should be encouraging it. It is a great opportunity for families to enjoy a sport together and actually teaches young kids the responsibility of operating vehicles in a safe manner. Many states embrace this off-road industry and profit from it. In fact, millions of acres of federal land are set aside for off-road use of all kinds. It's a shame that The Press takes such a narrow, nanny-state approach to sports like this.
BOB GLOVER
Dorothy
Levinson responsive
to traffic suggestions
On Dec. 28, The Press published my letter, "Find a quicker fix to Airport Circle." I had challenged Atlantic County Executive Dennis Levinson to ride with me along with the county engineer to various intersections and the Airport Circle to find traffic flow improvements that might be quickly implemented.
The morning my letter was published, Levinson called me. He followed up to arrange the drive-around on Jan. 10. There are several jurisdictions that are involved with any road changes, and the county planner and engineer will be reviewing and then providing feedback soon as to necessary requirements.
At this point, I must commend Atlantic County officials for their quick and professional reaction to my suggestion and now look forward to their conclusions on road improvement actions that can be implemented soon.
BILL DEUTSCH
Galloway Township
Great casino hotels
are built by employees
After 45 years in the hospitality business, I can say that what makes a great casino hotel is very simple.
Great businesses are built by people, not by changing CEOs. The personality of each employee projects the attitude of the property. Guests come to resorts to relax and be served, not only in restaurants, but in all aspects of the hotel. The rooms and all areas must be inspected daily. Attention has to be paid to every detail. Each hotel should have a person reading all online reviews.
Each employee is not just a worker; he or she is a representative of the property. That is why morale is a major factor in a hotel.
Is there more emphasis placed on a big-name chef than there is on training your people on the floor? Do guests see the big name, or do they see the server? Each person is extremely important to the operation.
It is difficult to build a clientele today and more difficult to keep it. Hospitality comes from the heart. It is an ability to please, just as an entertainer does on stage.
One night I escorted Don Rickles backstage. He looked at the audience before going on and commented that the place was packed. He suggested we must have given out a lot of comps. I said we had only given out a few comps. His face lit up. He said, "It's a Tuesday. I cannot believe it," and walked out smiling.
Atlantic City will come back as long as everyone is on the same page from the front to the back and from the top to the line.
DANIEL FEDELI
Egg Harbor Township
No place for prayer
at township meetings
Regarding the Jan. 9 story, "Galloway plans prayer to start public sessions":
I am dismayed that the Galloway Township council intends to start every meeting with a prayer.
I do respect every person's right to pray according to their beliefs. However, prayer does not belong in a government institution.
This is a poor use of taxpayer resources, goes against the very nature of separation of church and state, and is offensive to the multitude of taxpayers who choose not to support prayers or any kind.
JUAN TOLOSA
Galloway Township
