Each September I spend 30 days on vacation here in Bermuda. Presently this is my 22nd visit, but I am not sure about returning to Bermuda for a 23rd.

On October 12, last year I was struck by an apple thrown at me from a passing bus while riding a motorbike on South Shore Road at the overlook near Warwick Long Bay. This missile could have caused my death had I fallen under a passing bus or truck.

Having found the perpetrator, a 15-year-old boy guilty after trial, the Magistrate requested I suggest a "proper sentence''. I recommended that he impose one of two penalties; 1: Put a red suit on this, `juvenile delinquent', give him a broom and shovel and have him clean-up Front Street -- especially around the horse stand, or: 2: Place this guilty person in the pillory and stocks in St. George's for 15 minutes and take his picture for the newspaper and TV.

His embarrassment would go a long way to educate the rest of Bermuda's law breaking teenagers about respecting the rights of others! Unfortunately, the judge said that he could not give such a sentence according to the present laws and he gave the guilty person, "30 days community service''.

With a rap sheet over two pages long, I doubt this sentence will do anything to straighten out this person.

Bermuda should change this law to allow for a meaningful sentence! ARTHUR E. FREDDOLINO Clairfont Apartments Bermuda They did us proud September 18, 2000 Dear Sir, So often one only hears the negative side of service in Bermuda, but I have to share a positive experience.

The Bermuda Diabetes Association sponsored a conference at the Elbow Beach Hotel and it was nothing short of superb. Julita Peniston and her staff provided an outstanding efficient and courteous service.

Our conference was Saturday, September 16th and Hurricane Florence passed by in the early morning hours. Elbow Beach staff had set everything up and hotel staff was there at 6.45 am. Bermuda should be proud of such an excellent facility.

We would also like to take this opportunity to thank Stonington Beach for the excellent job they did on Friday evening, September 15, with our Type 1 Club meeting. Mr. Robinson and staff provided again efficient and courteous service. Our speakers from Toronto, Canada were most impressed with Bermudian hospitality.

DEBBIE JONES RN, CDE Diabetes Centre Coordinator