Spout Off

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Good morning, spouters. Have you read the bottom of your Post Office receipt? There is a Website for a poll to comment on your "recent postal experience," positive or negative. I have enjoyed the ability to compliment, or when necessary, to comment on less than stellar service. The pen is mightier than the sword.
—Cape May County
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I would like to say 'thank you to each and every person who works for Fare Free. What a wonderful group they are. Office workers cannot be nicer and bus drivers help all the aged with their bundles and seat belts etc. No other place or city caters so to one and all. I hope and pray that all of you receive this gift with appreciation.
—North Wildwood
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To the spouter who is confused about the policy of the lifeguards in the Cove calling people out of the water at 5:25 p.m.: We signal all bathers and surfers with whistles from in front of our equipment storage area under the pavilion when it is 5:30 p.m. The policy was put in place to inform the public that the beach is no longer guarded and they are swimming or surfing at their own risk.
—Cape May
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All you opponents of a dog park, listen and learn. I spent a great deal of money purchasing a nice home at the shore. I then spent a great deal of money landscaping the property. Now you want me to let my dog do its business in front of my new house on my expensive lawn – I think not. With the money I pay in taxes the town should build me a place where my dog can do its business and I don’t have to worry about my own property and the mess my dog might make. If you don’t see the logic in this thinking, you must hate dogs.
—Wildwood Crest
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To all the cars with Quebec license plates driving around the island...listen up: I don't know what the rules are in Canada, but here in America we don't stop in the middle of the street and impede traffic while sightseeing; we yield at a “Yield” sign; we stop at a “Stop” sign; we turn in the turning lane, and oh yeah, try using a turn signal as well. Maybe that accessory is optional on Canadian cars?
—Wildwood
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As a local, I recently shopped at three different local merchants within a short period of time in the Wildwoods for different items, and not once did I receive a "thank you" from any of the persons working the register. These were not foreign workers either...I am beginning to see the tourists’ point of view now, how rude can you get?
—Stone Harbor
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I went to a drug store on Monday and the trashcan was overflowing. I went into the store and told one of the three young men behind the counter that were doing nothing. The sales person said "sure." After shopping I left, and the trash was still full and blowing everywhere in the parking lot. Trashcan disposal should be standard operating procedure. This store is year round and should be ashamed that they do not regularly handle the trash. They are making money hand over fist. They should be treated the same way that others are dealt with when they do not care for our community.
—Sea Isle City
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Referring to the bridge collapse in Minneapolis yesterday afternoon: A word of caution ¬— It would be nice if those responsible would take a closer look at the condition of the Townsends Inlet Bridge. It's a disaster waiting to happen. The appearance on the surface of the bridge itself is decayed and rotten. Imagine what the condition is underneath.
—Sea Isle City
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Just a reminder to all teachers down for the summer that there are 27 days until you have school again.
—Wildwood
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I am tired of being told at least once a week that we people who work at the library can't use our lunchroom because Emergency Management is having a luncheon. The last "luncheon" was three people. There are at least 60 library employees who are displaced every week for these luncheons. Can we please have our lunchroom back?
—Court House
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In Tranquility residents complain about grass being too tall, sidewalks not white, dogs barking, dogs defecating, dogs urinating, trash being put out before dusk, lawn service mowing too early (too much noise), leaving branches and leaves in the street, driving too fast, driving too slow, putting Civic Association news letters in the mail box (Federal Offense). They even have me complaining about complaining. With all the homes for sale (all priced too high) I guess Tranquility isn’t Tranquil anymore.
—Tranquility
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I live on Rio Grande Avenue, and I have noticed that for the past five years there are humungous trucks coming over the bridge. I was noticing that the bridge posts no weight limit. After the tragedy in Minneapolis, the mayor in Wildwood should wake up and find other routes into Wildwood or make sure that the trucks follow the amount that they are allowed to carry. It is frightening. I am not going to use the bridge any more
—Wildwood
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There are over 200 apartments in the Victorian Towers Complex on Washington Street. The majority of the residents are informed, civic-minded, well read, clear-thinking individuals, who welcome beneficial change in the community. Mr. Corea is an innovative individual who realized that change was needed in the park and bandstand area if Cape May is to remain a viable, charming seaside resort for all to enjoy. Streets are for autos, bicycles, and walking pedestrians. Beach chairs, and barefoot children should occupy our beaches. The handful of nay-sayers who consistently say “no” to any changes do not speak for all of the residents at the towers. The bandstand area is much more attractive.
—Cape May
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We just received our $600 rebate check from the People’s Republic of New Jersey. Thanks for nothing you phonies.
—Cape May Point
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I want to say thank you to the employees at the PNC Bank at 15th Street in North Wildwood who came to the aid of my dad who’s car broke down in their parking lot on July 31st around 11 a.m. They were kind enough to let him use their phone. I also want to say thank you to the nice young man by the name of Smith who gave him a ride home and refused to take a tip. It’s really wonderful to know that there are angels out there looking after my elderly when I’m not able to.
—Wildwood
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Put a parrot or tape recorder in the lobby of the Marina Bay Towers, they can say, “I don’t know, I don’t know” to the tenants when they ask any question. They could do it just as well. With the poor example of the manager, no wonder the tenants are frustrated and in trouble.
¬—North Wildwood
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I was traveling on the Garden State Parkway on Aug. 4, and witnessed an accident near Exit 4. I was too far away to get the license plate, however a red Ford Focus hit another vehicle and sped off. The vehicle that was struck was luckily okay and nobody was injured. However, it really irrigated me and my fellow passengers because, not only did the car do a "hit and run," it was also traveling past the speed limit. I ask all drivers to please be careful and to the driver of that red Ford Focus, how would you feel if that was you? Have some sympathy and think about what you caused.
—Cape May
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It is interesting that Corzine and his Democrat buddies in the legislature increased the arts council budget to $21 million in the new New Jersey State Budget, but there is no money for Cape May County to repair a bridge that has been closed for three years. How many more bridges are being ignored while our government is pumping more money into the arts? Where are out priorities? Government should stick to infrastructure and let the private sector support the arts. Don't get me wrong, I love the arts and feel they are necessary, but maybe its time rethink the budget allocations.
—Court House
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Gone, but not forgotten. Our postmaster does a great job for our community, and it is a pleasure to go to our post office. Our school children enjoy their yearly visit. The post office and the people working there are a credit to the town. But I want to take a moment to remember our old postmaster, Don H., who has left this life now, but has left our town a better place. His kindness and willingness to help are not forgotten. Our Chamber of Commerce should honor Don's memory!
—Woodbine
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I cannot think of too many professions that are more worthy of being over paid, than firefighters/EMTs and police officers, regardless of how many hours they put in. By the way which six months of the year does the spouter think that there are so few emergencies? Be assured that although a college degree may not be required, your police, fire and rescue personnel are very capable of protecting the community 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
—Stone Harbor

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My family, including my two grandchildren ages four and two, were very disappointed with the Christmas in July boat parade. At my suggestion we went to a waterfront restaurant because last year we had so much fun with the radio station there. This year nothing was geared toward this event. We spent three- and-a-half hours and a lot of money, finally leaving at 10 o'clock and did not see one boat. We will not be returning next year.
—Wildwood
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Women in a supermarket deli section: Can you hold off on the gossiping just long enough to wait on your customers who are standing there?
—Villas
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One more Christmas in July, and one more disappointment: No boats, only very late stragglers. It's like waiting for Christmas and no presents under the tree. That's OK because the one boat show that never disappoints people is the Hydrofest. I will be planning my party from now on at the Hydrofest boat show. I have invited all my guests back for it to make up for the disappointment.
—Wildwood Crest
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Thank you for clearing the path from the boardwalk to the beach at Youngs Avenue. It was the most treacherous walk that anyone would have ever wanted to take. Bricks, steel chunks, old pipe, glass and the steep grade of the sand made that walk dangerous. I worried daily that a serious injury might occur.
—Wildwood
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Bring back the bells of St. Simeon’s.
—North Wildwood
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The Christmas in July boat parade was great! I'm so glad it was decided to include all of the Wildwoods this year. I hope it continues next year.
—North Wildwood
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The Daniel's murder case is so unfair, the courts already hung him with an all-white jury. Why are there no blacks on the jury? Give him a chance with a jury of his peers. Cape May County is so quick to convict a black man, but who's to say that the killer is not white? Remember innocent until proven guilty. No one is God, and only God can judge.
—Cape May
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It is amazing to me the double standard in the Michael Vick case. The NAACP wants the American people to withhold any judgment on Vick's case until he goes to trial, yet the Reverends Al and Jesse were hanging Imus and others out to dry the very next day. Talk about having it both ways!
—Seaville
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To the spouter concerned about the pumping station at the north end of Villas: You must not be from around here. It’s not treated water; it’s water from Fishing Creek Meadow. People in Wildwood drink it; fish, frogs, turtles, otters, ducks and geese all live in it The sluice is used for flood and mosquito control, and it’s been here for a very long time..
—Villas
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Why did they have to ruin the boat parade? My children and I waited until 10:30 at Sunset Lake for the parade and it never came We finally left along with many others, it just got way too late. I think that it was wrong for the parade to start in North Wildwood and take that long to get to us; why change a good thing? My friend was in the parade, and he said that route was horrible, he had to go through the waterway in the dark, and one boat got stuck in the marsh. I think maybe they should rethink that whole North Wildwood thing. I heard many boats quit midway also.
—Wildwood Crest
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I agree with the North Wildwood person who wrote about riding bikes on the sea wall July 25. There is barely enough room to walk, especially on the sections where people are fishing; some sections have steep drop offs. It is dangerous enough for adults to be dodging walkers and fisherman; no responsible parent should ever put their child in that situation.
—North Wildwood
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Thank you to the nice woman who stopped to help our friend, Sue, who fell while she was out walking on the boardwalk on the morning of July 30. Not only did she stop to help her but she also bought her a bottle of water on this hot, and very humid day. It's heart warming to know there are still nice, friendly people out there who are willing to stop and help people.
—North Wildwood
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Wildwood Catholic High School did a fantastic job. Thank you for taking the time to do this for the kids. My son had a great time. Good luck this season.
—North Wildwood
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I recently had the pleasure of doing some business at Wildwood City Hall. What a wonderful group of people there. Everyone is so polite and helpful; taking time to walk me down to the proper office. Just want you folks to know it does not go unnoticed. Keep up the good work. It contributes to making Wildwood the great place that it is.
—Wildwood
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Is the Ciabatta Craze almost over? Any ‘new’ sandwich made with it is up to each person if they like it and want to buy it, but Arby’s changed their popular French dip from French roll to Ciabatta. Why they would change a standard favorite to this “sour dough wanna be” is beyond comprehension. It’s not too late to change back.
—Mayville

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Can someone tell me why Dennis Township mayor and officials spend money sending out the “township observer” to all the residents expressing their concerns about all the damage the gypsy moths are doing, and all the time they spent stopping the asphalt plant so that “unique character” of Dennis township is not disrupted, when they don’t give a hoot about the stray electricity that runs through the town plaguing the lives of their taxpayers. Which is more important? Some bug-eaten trees or the health and quality of life of their residents?
—Dennis Township
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In response to the person who spouted off a few weeks ago about the fire whistle going off, and that the fire department should have pagers: The fire department does have pagers. And when has there ever been a volunteer fire department that doesn’t have a whistle that goes off? They are in every town and have been there forever. If it bothers you, go home.
—Avalon
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Please, not another water park in North Wildwood; we really don't care about the "WOW" factor. How about something different since several proposals were made on the same site? But whatever you do, it is only respectful for us local taxpayers that you assess the property taxes on this development at the true 100 percent market value (much like us local property owners) and not entertain a pilot program.
—North Wildwood
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It is a crime that Cape May will tear down the beach patrol headquarters to replace it with a new building of the same footprint. The current beach patrol headquarters is only 15 years old, and is in perfect condition. The new headquarters will not even have public restrooms. The city justifies this costly project by saying it will not cost the taxpayers a penny because it is being paid for out of the beach fund. This is just a waste of money. The beach fund should be used to provide more restrooms and more bicycle racks for the promenade.
—Cape May
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Shame on Maria from Pennsylvania, for taking her elderly beagle out of her car in front of the Acme, letting it defecate in the landscape by the handicap parking area, and not clean it up. People like you give all dog owners a bad rap. Do you do that in Garnet Valley or just at the shore?
¬—Court House
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No matter how much money is spent to revive the Cape May City Mall, unless the filthy public restrooms are somehow cleaned and monitored several times a day, and the "No Dogs" rule is enforced rather than ignored by the few police ever seen on the mall, it will never become a first-class tourist destination.
—Cape May
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The Lower Township Police captain should issue a public apology to the beachgoers he had removed from the beach in front of The Grand. The township went through a lengthy process several years ago to ensure access to bathers at privately-held beaches. But the captain felt he could interpret the DEP ruling as he felt fit and had his officers improperly remove the bathers, which risked the safety of his officers who had to call Wildwood Crest for backup. The police chief needs to make the captain accountable for his actions, and not sweep it under the rug as if it never happened.
—Lower Township
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Tell me why the last pier on the famous boardwalk has no bathroom. I paid $600 for season passes, and I was inconvenienced and had to use a city bathroom off the pier. All that money the pier is bringing in, and for what they charge people, and have no bathroom on the pier? Doesn’t make sense. I am an islander since 1976.
—Wildwood
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Cape May Seashore Lines is offering a $5,000 reward for information pertaining to vandalism done to their trains. That must be the donation money the Erma Volunteer Fire Company never got for assisting them with the Thomas the Train event two years ago!
—Erma
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The Wildwood boardwalk is a disgrace. I walk early everyday on the boardwalk. To see the city employees cleaning only reminds me that we pay for cleaning to the Special Improvement District or SIDS. The merchants need to take more direct responsibility to keep areas near their own establishments clean and trash cans empty. Most tourist towns make sure food merchants do their part. As a chemist I only can tell you if the public areas appear dirty the cooking and food storage areas must be filthy. If the merchants can’t do a better job then we need to get rid of SIDS and put the money where it really works… outside contractors
—Wildwood/Philadelphia
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Hearty congratulations to Jim Carroll III of Green Creek. And, thank you for printing his letter to the editor. He is right on target when he writes that too many politicians believe they are at the feeding trough. Their idea is to pander to the voters so election and re-election is assured. Too many people vote for the politician who promises them the most benefits. How else could we get a governor such as Jon Corzine? How else could we get a president such as Bill Clinton? God help us if the people vote for Hillary.
—Avalon
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It was a great pleasure to read the letter to the editor written by Gerald F. Stahlecker of Seaville. Stahlecker obviously has done his homework. It is an established fact that when he was president, Bill Clinton gave pardons to some low life and gave those pardons for personal gain. His political friends protected him and he got away with telling lies under oath. He is a hypocrite for criticizing President Bush.
—Court House
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I thought a certain pizza place on the boardwalk that burnt down last winter was required by OSHA to have off street parking in order to have an expanded dining room. Yet the parking lot behind the building is roped off.
—North Wildwood
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I really doubt the group SAD is here to save the environment. If they’re so mad at the people in government, why don't they protest in front of their house? I think right now Avalon has more dunes than they've had in the 30 years I've been here. The north and south end have been built up nicely, and will provide great protection in the event of a big storm. (Just a little heads up for all you new locals…you can thank them later for saving your house.
—Avalon
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I have lived in Middle Township all of my life and I am very upset as to what is happening in our township. Our committee people don't care about the residents; they only care about their friends that need help getting a favor. I feel sorry for the residents who live on Indian Trail as I know what happened up at Williams dump — maybe not the same chemicals, but still bad for private wells. I hope that when it comes time to vote in the fall that all the residents remember what our leaders have done. And I also hope there are enough signatures to put it on the ballot for a five-member committee.
—Middle Township
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West Wildwood needs to vote for people who care about the taxpayers. We have three commissioners who sit in front of the people at borough meetings like bumps on a log, when they feel like attending, They can’t give a straight answer about anything that’s being asked, and the borough’s solicitor who thinks he’s the commissioner gives what ever answer that he feels like giving. We don’t want him to answer, we want our duty elected to answer the question. If they can’t answer, then they shouldn’t be representing the people of West Wildwood.
—West Wildwood
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The North Wildwood Recreation Center is one of the most well-run facilities in all of Cape May County. They do a wonderful job of helping the children get involved in the community.
—North Wildwood
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I would just like to commend Coach Dan and his staff at Buckets by the Beach Basketball Camp for the wonderful week of camp my child was privileged to have attended. I can't wait to send him again for the third week of camp.
—North Wildwood
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Nearly two weeks ago sitting on 35th Street, I witnessed an Avalon Beach Patrol lifeguard, rescue a bather from the ocean. I learned later that the guard was suspended for a day. I thought the guard was doing his job. Apparently, the captain didn't think so for whatever reason. Any comments? I praise the guards for long hard days of heat, sun, wind, rain, sand, thunder, lightening, rowing and mostly their protection of our beach goers.
—Avalon
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We find it odd that Cape May Point doesn’t want trash corals, secured painted wood beach storage boxes, because both are not aesthetically pleasing. Yet, the commissioners have chosen two possible sites for lavatories on beach entrances. Will public works properly maintain them and will the structure be an eye appealing structure that makes the Point so special? What kind of building restrictions will they enforce to make them blend in with the dunes? Or, don't they care about what the homeowners and patrons of the beach will look at??
—Cape May Point
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All Cape May Point taxpayers are urged to speak up against bathroom facilities at the Coral and Whilden entrance (mayor already has approval from the ACE) or at the St. Pete's entrance. There must be other location options. We need to investigate other options/locations before the commissioners finalize this. This is being funded by taxpayer money. Too bad the non-voting taxpayer's opinions are never considered.
—Cape May Point
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Has anyone noticed that the tourists this season seem to be really in a foul mood all the time? Who the heck goes on vacation in a foul mood? Save that attitude for your own hometown, don't bring it to ours.
—Wildwood Crest
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Why is it that the Sheriff's Department is the law enforcement agency doing something about the trains in Rio Grande and not the Middle Township Police? What happened to our police department?
—Rio Grande
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To the spouter that is offended by the woman breastfeeding in public: Whatever you do, don't plan a trip to NYC! If this message confuses you, try reading something educational and this message just may help to adjust your seriously obscured and uneducated views on mothers and breastfeeding.
—Wildwood Crest
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Good job DeMarzo. Maybe now that Wildwood City Hall has a watchdog, something will be done about the “good old boys” club there.
—Wildwood
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Lower township officials again dropped the ball on Diamond Beach and public access to the wet sand and the ocean. The township officials work for the people; the citizens should be treated with respect. If they can't handle that, then they should resign their positions and find another line of work.
—Lower Township
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I just wanted to say that the coffee guy, Tony, at the Wildwood Wawa is a great person. He says hi to everyone and is always friendly. It's not common these days to encounter genuinely nice people in the customer service business. Thanks Tony.
—Wildwood
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To the spouters complaining about the police enforcing no-trespassing in Diamond Beach: Private property is just that, private property, whether it is owned by a multi-millionaire or you. By your logic if you have more money than me, I should complain that the police aren't available to help me when they are helping you.
—Villas
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To the spouter complaining about the tax break to develop the water park: It's called abatement and it is intended to entice someone to invest large sums of money in town. Tax abatement is nothing new, North Wildwood offered it to anyone looking to improve their properties before the condo boom or weren't you living here before the boom?
—North Wildwood
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What was the purpose of spending taxpayer money on the triangle park on Lighthouse Avenue if the borough can't maintain it? How do you expect to maintain lavatory facilities?
—Cape May Point
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Before a reef is placed at the outer area of St.Pete's Beach (Mayor Fraser states that the project is waiting for funding and has been turned over to the ACE), we hope there will be a meeting to show where the reef will be placed. We do not want another beach to be closed when the ACE replenishes the beaches with sand. Please keep the taxpayers informed
—Cape May Point
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We are snowbirds from Florida-. Golf carts are fine when everyone else is driving a golf cart, but they are not "safe" as suggested from the resident of Avalon, and they are road hazards unless everyone must drive only a golf cart. Our community in Florida banned them from the roads because they are a hazard. Think hard Avalon — they are not the answer to congestion, they will only create more congestion.
—Court House
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I hope Cape May County politicians are watching the news or reading the papers. The Cape May County bridge commission is presently considering taking over the decrepit Beesley Point Bridge, this should not done! As person who travels the Ocean Drive frequently and crosses county bridges, I see a lot of necessary repairs are needed. If the county cannot maintain the present bridges, why acquire one that the will cost a fortune in the near future. Don’t take the bridge. Remember the autos in the river and the photo of the school bus that was loaded with children.
—Sea Isle City
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The reason the city’s beach patrol chief works from April until November is what his contract calls for. I’ve always wondered the same thing and asked the public safety commissioner at a public meeting several years ago.
—Wildwood
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Media coverage of the topic "multiplication tables are obsolete - will no longer be taught in school; that 2X2=5 is "close enough." Unbelievable! Today's paper reports "only 58 percent of teacher candidates who took the required licensing exam in math in 2005-06 passed it; 64 percent passed the social studies test and 71 percent passed the English exam." Teachers who can’t pass the exam today prepare our children; they need teachers like those of the past who, with a fire in their bellies, ensured those they mentored were prepared to face the world after basic schooling.
—North Wildwood
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To the "happy" spouter complaining about the tandem bike couple: I am a neighbor of this couple. They are classy, well-educated parents and grandparents. They enjoy their family and friends and their home with the lush landscape. They are not reckless on their bike.
—West Cape May
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The "Save the Theatre" group in Cape May must think that the taxpayers have an open checkbook for them. Not only do they want $100,000 given to them with no repayment program, but also they want us to foot the bill for over $20,000 to figure out how to make it legal.
—Cape May
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When is president of city council coming out to inform the residents concerning the problems with the school board? He was a member of the BOE and is aware of the problems. He was elected on a platform to straighten matters out. Well let’s start. The other commissioners should also get involved as the BOE's actions are going to cost the city a lot of money… or don't they care?
—Sea Isle City
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My thanks to all the employees of Joe Canal's Liquor Store on Route 47 in Rio Grande. I am a summer resident and every time I go in there, everyone is so pleasant and helpful, from the stock people to the cashiers and the managers. It's so nice to see customer service alive and well in a consistent manner. A pleasant attitude and a smile for the patrons go a long way.
—North Wildwood
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Wait; let me get this right. You can't buy a hermit crab on the boardwalk in Wildwood, but you can buy the legal equivalent of pot there. They are selling a drug called Salvia there that is sold in different strengths and can be taken in several ways. It causes hallucinations, violent behavior etc. I don't know but I think hermit crabs would be a better choice. They only bite you, not kill you like those drugs could.
¬—Wildwood Crest
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To the woman with short blonde hair and SAT prep materials that was breastfeeding on the tour bus on July 27: Was that really necessary? Your baby was not crying, and clearly does not need to be fed any more frequently than he desires. I believe there is such a thing as overfeeding your child.
—Rio Grande
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To the blonde with the grasshopper halter top who was breastfeeding at the mall: I was not aware that a woman is required to completely expose her upper torso to feed her child. Modesty is a virtue. Some women carry a small blanket or cloth to cover themselves.
—Cape May
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To the law clerks of Court House: On behalf of Cape May County, we thank you for a job well done.
—Court House
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To the woman in the silver sports car who threw the Miller Lite can out her window on Mechanic Street: There are so many things wrong with your actions I don't even know where to begin. Do you realize you practically threw an open alcohol container at a police station?
—Court House
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To the gentleman playing that old, rusty trombone at the entrance to the Wildwood boardwalk: You truly make beautiful music. It makes me wonder what you could do with a better instrument.
—Wildwood
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I recently submitted a spout off about a woman I saw breastfeeding on the beach in Cape May. Having seen some of the responses, I believe that clarification is in order. First, I see nothing wrong with breastfeeding, but with modern technology such as breast pumps and public restrooms, it is not always necessary to breastfeed in public places where large crowds have gathered. Second, the spouters who responded to me assumed that the woman was breastfeeding a baby. The individual being breastfed was at least three years old. Maybe that practice is normal in Quebec.
—Cape May
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I just want to thank Chris on the Wildwood Beach Patrol for giving my older mom a ride. The beach is so big in Wildwood, and with her condition there was no way she would have made it to waters edge in her wheel chair. We had a great day.
—Philadelphia
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I agree about the restroom at Grant Street Beach. I had to use it twice last week, and a Dad brought his young son in to use the facilities and after he saw the urinal area he told his son very firmly “Don’t touch anything.” What kind of message are we saying to our visitors?
—Cape May
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Each summer it seems the beach patrols in the Wildwoods write spout offs about one another. However it seems lately that the spouting has been personal and childish. Each and every member of the patrols does a great job. I have a cook out each summer for all the guards, and everyone seems happy enjoying a brew and a burger together. Lets’ just keep it that way
—Wildwood
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I also had the bad experience of running into the drunken man in the Laundromat. He kept waking up and screaming about his missing cell phone. Maybe the owner could provide security.
¬—North Wildwood
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Open up St. Raymond’s school for classes. Why bother building St. Raymond’s school if you are not going to use it? You should open it up after Labor Day for students to go back to school in Villas. Why send the students to other schools where parents cannot afford to send them? Use the building for meetings. Use the hall that is used for basketball for meals and for dances. Use that for meetings. Why use the school for meetings? That is foolish. We need the schools for the students. Why should the taxpayers pay money if you are not going to use the schools for students?
--Middle Township
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I was listening to my scanner and was shopping, and I heard the supervisor from North Wildwood Public Works yell at an employee over the air. I do not know why the mayor or the city administrator allows a supervisor to embarrass employees over the air. The supervisor needs training and anger management.
¬North Wildwood
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Thank you to the Spout off in Wildwood that noticed all of the street lamps out in Wildwood Crest. My street has had one lamp off for over four months. Whatever happened to the police patrol that should be noticing that the streets are so dark?
—Wildwood Crest
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I went to a concert at Atlantic City’s newest casino. Those security guards were disgraceful. They were using physical force because a man was trying to take a picture with a cell phone. I am never going back to that casino again! I find this unnecessary. I am professional.
—Wildwood
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We have been trying to get the boat ramp in Sea Isle fixed for the last five years. There are always working people there on Friday, Saturday and Sundays, and they are all asking when the boat ramp will be fixed. The people who are working there are taking the guff while Sea Isle is making all of the money. They charge $10 to put the boat in the water and the ramp is horrible. The people who work here are trying their best to accommodate those who are on their hard earned vacations.
—Sea Isle City
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How can the City of Wildwood explain all of the litter that is on the street and the beach as well as the unsightly public works dump off of Susquehanna Avenue, which is in direct violation of all DEP laws? It is piled up with trash on a daily basis. This is a blatantly disgusting thing that is occurring. I would like to make sure that people are aware of this.
—Wildwood
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I am wondering if the borough of Avalon has relaxed its heightened restrictions on new construction in the dunes. The house at 51st Street in the dunes, which is causing so much controversy, when you look at it from the beach side, it is already higher than the completed homes on either side of it, which are also quite large; they look as though they are at the maximum height of what was allowed. This house is higher already and it is not even finished.
—Avalon
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I am a long time resident of North Wildwood, and this year I am very disappointed by the performance of the North Wildwood Beach Patrol. It seems that all the girls do is talk on their cell phones, and all the boys do is talk to the girls and eat. I don’t know what’s going on but all I can say is thank goodness we can all swim.
—North Wildwood
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I just read the spout off from the Avalon resident about the higher taxes and the Republican’s “Spend Spend, Spend” policy. Yes we have a new assistant recreation manager. What the spouter forgot to mention is that the new assistant doesn’t even live in Avalon any more; he now lives off shore. But apparently political cronyism extends beyond the Avalon bridges. It is time for us to stop this double dipping and creating jobs for friends so that they can collect more pensions. Let’s keep our taxes down so that we can afford to live here.
—Avalon
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In response to the women who spouted off about the restrooms along the parkway at mile marker 22.17: I think it’s an utter disgrace. I live in Cape May County, and it’s the same when you go into Cape May. There are never any bathrooms available. It’s a disgrace to the county. Why did they bother putting in restrooms that are never open?
—North Cape May
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Thank you Wildwood Crest Public Works. When I saw the beach boardwalk being cleared the same day that the complaint was made in last weeks Spout Off, I had to thank those men. It turns out that they are with the Parks Department. Why did these men get this job in the middle of the afternoon? I have seen them working on the park and I think they have enough to do, but thank you for stepping up.
—Wildwood Crest
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In response to the spouter concerning an ambulance running out side of an eatery: The ambulance was not running and it was locked. Not only are we very vigilant concerning the theft of our ambulances for a joy ride, Home Land Security reminds us of the potential misuse of an ambulance. If the thought was that we were wasting taxpayers’ money, wrong again, the ambulance pays for it’s own fuel. If you have enough time to make up other’s people’s problems why don’t you volunteer to take ambulance school at three or four in the morning? I would also like to inform you that our ambulance service is free. I guess it’s true that when some one doesn’t have an interesting life they try to live some one else’s.
—Sea Isle City
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It was nice to see the article about the Great American Trolley drivers and how they treat their customers kindly, but it’s a shame that same courtesy to the neighbors on Shunpike Road who have to put up with them at all hours of the day by shining their lights into peoples’ houses and making all kinds of noise with disregard for requests to be quieter.
—Lower Township
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To get a lot of traffic off of Rt. 9, should Railroad Avenue be taken north to North Wildwood Boulevard or Shunpike south to Wildwood Boulevard?
—Mayville
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My house was robbed over July 4th weekend, and they stole my mother’s pills and she’s been in the hospital ever since then. Since I reported it there has been no investigation.
—Villas
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Lately watching North Wildwood’s government is like watching an episode of Survivor. Unlikely alliances and backstabbing will surely win you the game.
—North Wildwood
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I was wondering about the Michael Vick case, but since the NAACP has come out in support of Vick, I know now that he is 100 percent guilty.
—Cape May
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To the “Library Lady” at Marina Bay Towers, it’s time you realize that the library is for all the tenants, not just for you. It’s bad enough with all the problems that we are having with the owner not making repairs to the building. Your complaint took away what the handicap and the elderly can do, shame on you.
—North Wildwood
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How long will it take before the management of the Cape May-Lewes Ferry does something about supervisors not doing their job the way that they are supposed to? Supervisors appear to be working on their own personal projects on the company time. This is totally ridiculous.
¬—Cape May
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The United States of America is the only country in the world where the “poorest poor people” are fat. Excuse me, “overweight.”
—Cape May
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I am spouting off to the people at 17th Street and the bay in North Wildwood. Tell them to stop complaining about the new wave of construction that is happening in our area. Also, stop complaining about the beautiful new contemporary home in the area. Get with the times; it is time for a change or time to shut their blinds.
—North Wildwood
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What a shame it is that the horse program consultant at the 4-H program can’t show some type of self-control. I saw her on the last day of the fair, screaming at the top of her lungs from the center of the horse arena, until she was red in the face at the guys helping to put up the fence. What a great example she is for the kids and those in the 4-H program. Now I see where my tax dollars are going.
—Cape May County
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Why do we need so-called conventions that promote crimes such as drinking, drugs, loud noise, threats to local officials, and fear to local residents? Please do away with the September motorcycle convention, or put it on the ballot and see if voters want it here. The motorcyclists have been ruining the reputation of Wildwood as a family resort. There are plenty of other conventions that would like to come to Wildwood.
—Wildwood
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The front page on the Herald reads, “One or Two Story Convention.” My suggestion is, how about no stories on the existing dump, how about we build some multi-million dollar condos right there on the beach? That would be too sensible for Cape May County.
—Cape May
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After reading about the incident in the grand condos in Diamond Beach and the restriction to the beach and water, I am quite concerned. The new township manager is either uninformed or chooses to ignore the public trust document. Even more disconcerting is that a high ranking police official would imply that he does not have to enforce laws that he is sworn to uphold if he does not agree with them. That is a real problem
—Diamond Beach
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To the fireman who lives on the 700 block of Indian Avenue: Thank you for putting out the grass fire in our neighbors’ back yard. What you did was very courageous.
¬—North Cape May
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I am very discouraged. I saw four military men out on leave, I offered them a ride to a restaurant for dinner and they informed me that they were not allowed. I am an American citizen and I wanted to show them my gratitude for keeping us all safe. I do not understand why they were not allowed to ride in my car.
—Cape May
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I am visiting Avalon from State College, Pa. I would like to thank the kind lady who stopped to help my little boy when he fell off his bike. I did not get her name; she was on a pink and white bike with flowers on the basket. She washed his cut and waited for me.
—State College, Pa.
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I want to know who gave permission to buses to park between Spencer and Spicer Avenues? The fumes are detestable and the smell is coming into our homes. This is a health hazard that should be addressed as soon as possible.
—Wildwood
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Why does the Cape May Stage house on Lafayette Street have to be a party house every night? Maybe the actors should spend more time practicing their trade.
—Cape May
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In response to the “happy resident” in Marina Bay Towers, it is quite obvious who wrote in. As a result of not being able to use the community room for our various activities, we are made to feel like hostages. Unhappy Resident.
—North Wildwood
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All we see or hear is redeveloping and making things better so we can attract more tourists. Perhaps it is time to ease the burden on the people who are the backbone of this community and would like to continue being able to live here. Is it fair that people, who have grown up here, raised their families here to be forced to sell their properties, as they can no longer afford to live here? I am eaten up inside thinking about having to sell my home, which has been in the family for more than 50 years.
—West Cape May
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To the few bad apple parents trying to discredit my wife and children: They should take a look in the mirror. I did, and saw the best wife and kid I could ever ask for. I hope they see the same if they could be so lucky. Lucky husband.
—South Dennis
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Instead of focusing on a dog park in Avalon, the town should be catching the stray cats under the boardwalk at 30th Street. It is evident that these dune cats are eating the terns and the pipng plovers nesting on the open sand at the restricted beach areas. I also suggest that the Avalon Beach Patrol vehicles stop the daily drive between the 50th and 38th street beaches. They may be more of a hazard to the birds than the cats. I recently observed that as they drove by a flock of small birds flew away from their nesting spots.
—Avalon
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I was walking on the Washington Street Mall in Cape May for the first time in years. It was a very humid day, and I had a water bottle and had to sit in the shade for a while to cool down. I would like to point out that a business had a young woman standing outside their store in pants and a heavy polo shirt for at least 30 minutes. I would like to see the boss have to go to work and do that everyday.
—Erma

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Kudos to the City of Wildwood for the wonderful Sunday evening free concerts at the Doo Wop Experience Museum band shell. What a great location for an outdoor concert. So far, we have enjoyed two concerts, sitting in our beach chairs under the sky, the Philly Intruders and True (last night). We look forward to next Sunday night. Thanks to Joey M and the mayor for this treat.
—Wildwood Crest
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We thoroughly enjoyed our dinner at Piro's Restaurant. Special kudos to our waitress, Sam, for a job well done. Good luck at Chestnut Hill College this fall, Sam! Your enthusiasm and professionalism were a breath of fresh air.
—North Wildwood
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If you think the parking is bad now in the 21st Street area, wait till you see all the condos planned in between Ocean and Dune. Just what Avalon needs — more condos and no parking.
—Avalon
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To the defenders of SAD, just a note to the self-proclaimed leader. Your friend on 26th Street just sold a heavily-wooded ecosystem lot beside her house, and every piece of vegetation was torn down to build a new house. This friend was recently by your side protesting at 54th Street. I agree that you and your group need to reassess your values and stop harassing people who own property, and are just trying to build a house.
—Avalon
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The only thing more tragic than a bridge collapse is New Jersey's unwillingness to repair one that 's a vital evacuation route out of this county. No more rallies Van Drew, saying you want it open is just more lip service, we all want it open. As voters and tax payers we demand action, stop the flow of our tax dollars going to North Jersey for pork projects, and direct some of our dollars back to your district for a change. If you can't or won't do it, say it now. Get the money and do the job and grandstand at the top of the bridge when it is open and safe.
—Ocean View

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A mother’s right to breastfeed her child in public is protected by law. If people don't want to be "exposed" to such an act, then they can stay home — not the breastfeeding mothers
—Green Creek
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I would like to address the spouter from last week who believes that groups of teenagers and "Illegal Aliens" should be treated the same. First of all, most groups of teenagers hanging out are up to no good, meanwhile most aliens are waiting for a ride to work or home from work. Get your facts straight and don’t compare two groups that are completely different. Also, who gave you the right to assume they are "illegal aliens?"
—Court House
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Parents of students in the LCMR School District should take a good look at who their child's teacher is this year. Ask them on Back To School Night if they are certified to be teaching your child...new hires especially. Would you take your sick child to a mechanic for treatment? Our teachers need to know what they are doing and the subjects they are teaching, no matter who they are related to.
—Lower Township
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A big thank you to the man who changed my tire for me on Aug. 4. I was out yard saling with my mother, when I pulled over at a yard sale on Route. 9. Someone blew their horn to let me know I had a flat. The man running the yard sale was right there to help us and wouldn't even take anything for his time and sweat. I wanted readers to know there are still good people out there. I hope you did well at your sale. God bless.
—Villas
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The nurses at Cape Regional care so much for their patients, and always strive to give the absolute best care. Administration's been overworking them by forcing dangerous workloads. This puts their license on the line, but more importantly, affects the direct care given to patients. Someday it may be your loved one (or yourself), that can't get care that’s deserved. It’s not because the nurses don't care, they're just seriously too busy. Bribing with food, and sending canned "thanks" emails don't cut it. You don't mean it. If you appreciate all the hard work that the nurses do, start showing it.
—Middle Township
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I frequently go to the beach in Upper Sea Isle, 5th to 8th streets. I have still not been checked by a beach tag checker. Why am I still paying $48 for beach tags every year when people can sit there for free? On Aug. 3, a so-called checker moseyed up and down the beach and did not check anyone. City fathers, wake up, or that will be the last dollar you'll get from me.
—Sea Isle City
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It's sad to see all the empty stores in Stone Harbor. And sadder too, that we lost our only drug store years ago. It was so convenient to have one in town. I do wish that someone would open another one in one of those empty stores. That's what we need — far more than another t-shirt shop, pizza shop, or toy store. I'll be the first one in the door the day one opens.
—Stone Harbor
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To the mayor of Avalon: Thank you for providing one of the nicest libraries in the area for the citizens of Avalon. Your efforts are truly appreciated. The only complaint I have is the noise level. People need a quiet setting in which to read and browse.
—Avalon
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For several years some taxpaying residents of Cape May Point have requested a simple walkway form the road to Whilden Beach. This has proved to be such a monumental engineering feat that the borough commissioners and engineers cannot accomplish it. Now, it seems a miracle has occurred. The borough plans to install a restroom building in the dunes at either Coral Avenue or Saint Peter's, engineering and architecture no problem. Tourists talk, and residents don't walk (at least not to Whilden Beach). Wildwood, move over, Cape May Point is set to give you a run for your money.
—Cape May Point
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I had to laugh about the spouter that was ordered off the beach for fishing too early. I'm surprised he wasn't cuffed and taken in. The cop hiding in the bushes was too funny! I lived in North Wildwood for nine years, and the police department was the main reason I moved. They are egotistical, rude, and disrespectful! Hail Lower police!
—North Cape May
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How come when I park my car a few inches in the yellow zone I get a ticket? But I saw a newly-elected commissioner park his truck in front of Russo's Friday night, his whole vehicle was in the yellow zone, and he didn’t get a ticket. Does he get special privileges because he's a commissioner, or because the cops don't ticket other cops?
—Wildwood
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The recent chain reaction collision at the ShopRite intersection in Rio Grande was a wake up call. The traffic on Rt. 47 in Rio Grande is poorly policed, and vehicles come barreling down the road, particularly in the eastbound lanes, like it's a speedway. Many times I have been sitting at that very red light where the accident occurred, looking in my rearview mirror and praying that I wouldn't be rear-ended. The Middle Township police need to step it up in this particular area. Prayers for the gentleman rear-ended by the cement truck and all others.
—Wildwood Crest
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Yes, shore communites need golf carts. We enjoy the villages in Florida. All golf carts, golf community of Rockport Texas, golf carts everywhere…so much safer...governors on all golf carts. What a great idea for our area...why are we always so far behind other communities?
—Upper Township
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Something needs to be done about the gypsy cabs running in Avalon. The drivers are not all licensed, and often charge obscene rates to go just a few of blocks. These gypsy cabs are undesirable on the island, feel they are above the law and drive upwards of 40 mph, and one of the drivers even has illegal drugs openly on display in the driver console of his "cab." Cabs offer a great alternative to driving under the influence, but the towns need to regulate this practice so that their residents and visitors are not put in danger or robbed blind!
—Avalon
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The recent collapsing of a bridge again raises the question: Are county and municipal engineers doing their job? Or are they qualified to do their job? Most of these engineers are hired because of political connections and are given an open checkbook. Maybe its time to get some new engineers who are no part of the “in-gang” and will do their job. Peoples’ lives are at stake; this is a very serious problem.
—Sea Isle City
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What I witnessed at a diner on July 30 was appalling. A young man came in and sat at the counter and ordered a sandwich, and then he proceeded to read the newspaper that was lying on the counter. The manager, or who ever he was, completely abused him verbally in front of everyone who was in the diner at the time. It was packed. I always thought when a paper was on a counter in a diner, it was for anyone to read. I will think twice about eating there again when he is there.
—Rio Grande
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I would like to know why the Wildwood Crest Recreation Department allows one of their employees to embarrass game referees while he is coaching a team. We have attended every Sunday and Tuesday game, and this individual has yelled at referees every night. Only once did one referee give him a technical foul, which we feel he should get several times a game. To make matters worse, we are told that this man is also a referee.
—Wildwood Crest
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Townbank homeowners, now is the time to act if you want public water. As our wells go bad, our house values go down. There are several homes that have had wells go bad. Cancer is a terrible price to pay for not taking action and insisting on township water. Let them know. Townbank residents want public water now. The M.U.A. has given notice to Lower Township. Public water is now available. Tell council to vote yes for public water now.
—Townbank
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I agree with the other spouters disappointed that our new Wal-Mart has no sewing department. We really needed one down here with their great prices. Wal-Mart (mostly super centers) all have sewing departments. After shopping Wal-Marts in Vineland and Mays Landing, I welcomed our own store to cut my traveling distance. However, I’m disappointed the shelves are not fully stocked like other stores. Come on; let’s get this store off and running. If stock runs out faster than expected, how about doubling it? And let’s get that sewing department in there.
—Court House
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There are several banks in the Court House area that have the American flag flying every day. Why doesn’t the Bank of America in the center of town on Route 9 and Mechanic Street have any American flag showing?
—Court House
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