Thank-you letters: Nov. 9, 2003

Store, donors touch lives

Editor, Naples Daily News:

I would like to say "thank you" to all the wonderful people who take time out of their busy lives to come to our new store -- the St. Matthew's House Thrift Store, 1115 Airport-Pulling Road -- and make donations.

I see daily the smiles that come to the faces of despair, who think that there is no hope left in their lives, only to see that a new beginning has taken place due to all you wonderful and generous people who make it all possible.

During all the strife that is taking place around the world, it does my heart good to see that some people still can focus on matters in their hometown.

Please continue to make someone who has lost hope believe that there is a new tomorrow.

Sweet music

Editor, Naples Daily News:

On behalf of the Music Makers Big Show Band, I want to thank the audience at Cambier Park last Sunday that responded so enthusiastically to our debut there.

The musicians and vocalists in the band deserve special credit.

They performed this concert for free, so that the largest possible number of Naples residents could have the opportunity to hear this fine music.

I want to give credit to the generosity of our audience. At intermission, the band's bucketeers collected a total of $1,962.08. A check for that amount has been given to Mary Margaret Gruszka at Cambier Park for the City of Naples Bandshell Project.

If the audience had as good a time as the band did, we hope that they will share their enthusiasm so that the Music Makers might be invited back to play at Cambier Park on an annual basis.

Talk for the animals

Editor, Naples Daily News:

Thank you to all of the volunteers who put in countless hours for a howling success! We raised $1,250 at our Howl-O-Ween, all of which will go to support the animals.

A certificate of appreciation was presented to Kristin Smith from Earth Outfitters for her efforts on behalf of the animals.

Many others are owed a debt of gratitude, including Ken Andexlar from My Printer and Andrew Bruce of Shelton Land Rover.

This event would not have been possible if not for the programs sponsored by Sheriff Don Hunter (the Weekenders helped construct enclosures, After-Care hung lights and directed traffic, and DRILL cleaned up). Hay was loaned by Sutherland's General Store and the East Naples Methodist Church donated a truckload of pumpkins, which were filled with treats for the animals.

Thanks to everyone who gave time and money to this year's event. We hope to see you at Howl-O-Ween 2004, as it is sure to be even better!