[at-l] Palmerton Hostel

[johno at monmouth.com (John O)]

Receiving letters like this really upsets me. Here we have a "few hikers" 
who are jeopardizing a well established hostel. It would be appreciated if 
this letter could be passed around in hopes of educating those "few hikers".
Thanks
John O






John O'Mahoney, Editor
Thru Hiker Companion
40 Lenape Trail
Brick, NJ  08724

RE:  Palmerton Hostel

Dear Mr. O'Mahoney:

         I am writing to ask for your advice and assistance in a troubling 
matter for Palmerton Borough.  For over 25 years the Palmerton Borough Hall 
has been used as a hostel for through hikers on the Appalachian Trail.  In 
recent years the actions of a growing number of a few hikers is 
jeopardizing our interest in continuing this courtesy.   Recognize that we 
are talking about a minority of hikers, but a minority whose actions may 
affect 450-500 hikers per year who choose to stay with us for a 
night.  Many fine, wonderful people have become known to us through this 
outreach, but others appear to have less appreciation for what we have to 
offer.

         Some of the more blatant offensive actions that we do not 
appreciate are generally associated with immature behavior.  We are not a 
"flop house" for those who choose to over drink and sleep it off the next 
day.  Even more offensive are those individuals who have over drank and 
used our stairwell and shrubbery as a urinal or place to up-chuck.  As 
repulsive as it sounds, it happens too often.  Others feel that they are 
just too "independent" to have to register with either the police or our 
office.  If their independence is that critical, they should stay at the 
shelters provided on the trail.

         My last item of concern is for those traveling with their 
pets.  Three of the four regular office staff here have house dogs who stay 
indoors with us at home.  The difference is that these house animals are 
regularly groomed and washed.  Last year a hiker's "friendliest dog in the 
world" chased one of our residents out of the basement.  This is first and 
foremost a public building where many people come and go on a regular 
basis.  Please don't ask us to invite pets in, because the answer will be no.

         Please offer any thoughts or suggestions you may have, as we have 
nearly decided that we cannot risk a truly unfortunate circumstance 
happening.  As of this time, there is a 90% probability that we will not 
open in 2005.  We hope you have the answers that will allow us to look 
forward to meeting many new friends next year.

                                                         Sincerely,

                                                         BOROUGH OF PALMERTON


                                                         Rodger P. Danielson
                                                 Borough Manager