Havens No More

Regarding the May 11 story, “Office on the Road: Air Clubs Get Down to Business”:

Being the daughter of a retired vice president of American Airlines, I am well acquainted with Admirals Clubs. It used to be that they were a quiet, welcome place to relax. It was not strange to whisper while in this once-exclusive club.

My last visit to the club proved to be a shocking experience. There were TVs blaring; children running throughout, screaming, and it was so crowded there were no seats. I figure parents of small children feel they need not watch their kids, for a child can’t wander too far or bother too many people in a small club, and I suppose for the busy executive these clubs are convenient offices away from the office for which they pay only $100 a year. However, these places were designed for the weary traveler. After visiting one of these places, one emerges more harried than before.

It is sad to see what the clubs have become, but then again, I come from the generation of air travelers who check in at least one hour before departure time and wear a nice dress for the occasion.

STACEY R. STRICKLER

Los Angeles