When Resorts opened,
everything seemed possible
Regarding the Feb. 20 story, "Revel to seek bankruptcy shield":
I was saddened to read this. My husband and I both worked in Atlantic City when Resorts International first opened. I remember the excitement and hope for the future we all had. There were so many plans in the works, and nothing seemed unattainable. Atlantic City would have it all.
Little by little, we saw those plans disintegrate because of the greedy powers that be. We wound up leaving after the original Golden Nugget was sold, and Steve Wynn left the area. We have lived elsewhere for quite some time now and watched Atlantic City fade as all the other states legalized gambling.
Had the original plans come to fruition, the area would have been without any competition. No one else had the beach, Boardwalk and existing attractions.
The marketing of the city has been horrible. When we mention Atlantic City to our friends and neighbors, they have no idea what is offered there. They only hear news of the negatives. Bring back the things people are nostalgic for in Atlantic City.
We visited with grandchildren last year, and there was nothing available for them to do in the casino or on the Boardwalk. Something as simple as getting baby formula was a hassle, never mind any of the other necessities. We couldn't rent a stroller; the rides where closed at the time, etc. The casinos must appeal to a broader base. If you don't interest the younger set, where will the new clientele come from?
I sincerely hope someone will step back and see Atlantic City from the perspective of the people who were there when it all began and bring some of the excitement, ideas and enthusiasm to its future. Without some major changes, I fear for Atlantic City.
JOANN LaTERRA
Oneida, N.Y.
Revel can't counter
the city's negatives
Regarding the Feb. 20 story, "Revel to seek bankruptcy shield":
Revel management must have entered Atlantic City blindfolded, hoping to make their casino a tourist attraction.
First off, Atlantic City is a depressed area, a step or two above a slum. Drive down Pacific Avenue - or shall I say bounce down, considering all the potholes and patches. Your journey to the tourist area includes passing boarded-up homes, dirty little stores, a strip club, ladies of the night (or day), locals walking down the street with butts hanging out of their pants, lines of people waiting for a free meal. If you were lucky, last week there was a truck giving free AIDS tests to locals. This is our main street, our introduction to Atlantic City.
Revel had a nice idea - in the wrong location. Driving from Trump Plaza to Revel gives a tourist lots to talk about, unfortunately nothing positive.
VINCENT SCOTTI
Margate
