Bethlehem doesn't relish hot dogs

June 12, 1:52 PMBusiness News ExaminerScott Gingold

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At a time when record numbers of people are losing their jobs in the United States, it is great to see someone who was a victim of the economy start a new business.

Well, at least I think so. Apparently Mayor John Callahan of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania has a much different view, as do some businesses in the area.

The controversy unfolding in Bethlehem is a story about Edwin Padilla. Out of work, Mr. Padilla decided to open up a hot dog cart on the city's South side.

At issue, supposedly, is the city's "character", and fairness to other food establishments. As for the character of the city, it is difficult to take this claim seriously.

• The city just welcomed in its first slots parlor. Whatever you think about gambling, no one denies that it often attracts a seedy element.
• As you travel across East 3rd Street in Bethlehem to arrive at the aforementioned gaming establishment, you lay witness to the ruins of the former, and once-great Bethlehem Steel Company. Today, its buildings are crumbling, and as you pass, sadness immerses you.
• Each year the city attracts over 1 million visitors during a 10-day period as Musikfest rolls on. During this time, residents lives are turned upside down, they are inconvenienced, and the "character" of the city is a question mark for them.
• Bethlehem is the third largest metropolitan area in Pennsylvania and is surrounded by highways. As a result, its "character" is often tested by criminals and trouble-makers.

As for the businesses opposed to Padilla's Hot Dog cart, perhaps they need to look at their own offerings and service before attacking what they perceive as a competitor. Despite what you may hear from Washington these days, competition is a good thing --- especially for consumers.

From what I have seen and read, no one is accusing Mr. Padilla of serving bad food, running an enterprise that attracts a bad clientele, or treats the city's residents (a.k.a. his customers) poorly.

If indeed Mayor Callahan is so concerned about the character of his city, perhaps he may want to check out the integrity of the city's many massage parlors, escort services and other such enterprises.

Until then, might I suggest that we all enjoy a good hot dog at Mr. Padilla's stand, as well as support the other eateries in the area.