This is in response to the Aug. 12, 2020 Alpena News article on the Fresh Palate and their policy regarding who they welcome and who they don’t.

First of all, this is a very bad business decision. They are forcing people to decide whether they want to eat there based on their political or moral views. This could decrease their clientele/profits significantly. I thought eating at a restaurant was supposed to be about the food and being with friends in a welcoming atmosphere.

Second, I don’t support Black Lives Matter because they are a Marxist organization. I believe all lives matter! I don’t believe I should have to think a certain way in order to be welcome at a business establishment. Where I work, we welcome everyone regardless of their race, color, sexual orientation, religious beliefs or political views. It’s too bad that the Fresh Palate isn’t more inclusive and less discriminatory. They want society to be more inclusive, yet they want to exclude people who may have a different point of view than they have. It seems rather hypocritical, intolerant and prejudicial to me. Tolerance works both ways. Maybe it is they who need education, workshops and some business courses.

Fortunately, there are many other great choices for dining in the area.

RICK W. DeMARR,

Alpena