Thank-you letters: Nov. 16, 2003

Salutes

Editor, Naples Daily News:

Re: Veterans Day 50th anniversary at Cambier Park.

For anyone who couldn't attend the morning program -- you really missed something.

The attendance was great.

Capt. James Elson, president of the Veterans Council of Collier County, did an excellent job with arranging the program.

As usual, the Barron Collier High School band was outstanding. Thanks to director Mark Branson, who is an inspiration to the young ladies and young men in the band, who are so dedicated playing on this great day honoring all veterans and giving up their morning off from school.

Thanks to Big Cypress Elementary School, Christ Community Lutheran School, the seventh-grade class of Gulfview Middle School and all the member organizations for participating.

Thank you, thank you.

Helpers are winners

Editor, Naples Daily News:

The parents, coaches and players on the Barron Collier Junior Varsity Football Team wish to thank Publix Riverchase, Publix Pavillion, Noodles Cafe, McDonald's, Subway Ridgeport, Meatballz, and Applebee's for their contributions toward our pre-game meals.

We appreciate the support given to our players this season.

Hardship abated

Editor, Naples Daily News:

On Oct. 5 I had a motorcycle crash on Interstate 75. I was wearing a helmet. It and Jesus saved me from a lot of injury.

I want to thank many who helped, including my brothers and the ladies of the Enforcers Motorcycle Club who responded to the scene and stayed with me.

I want to thank the members of the Christian Motorcycle Association, all the local ABATE Chapters, Freedom Eagles, Paradise HOG Chapter, 4 Squares Ministries, Vietnam Brotherhood, Viet Vets, Rolling Thunder Chapter No. 2 and Messiah's Messengers for their many calls and cards.

Check it out

Editor, Naples Daily News:

Recently, as I was about to leave a local grocery store, a folding metal chair was accidentally pushed off the end of a check-out counter. It hit the back of my leg and cut a large gash.

Over a short period of time, while someone from the store applied bandages, three women came up to me, one by one, and offered to take me to the hospital emergency room.

Meanwhile, a good friend, who had been in line at the counter and saw it happen, came to my assistance.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank the caring ladies.

In the confusion, I did not get any names.

People are wonderful.

Thank you!

Very special

Editor, Naples Daily News:

Our granddaughter, who is in the Barron Collier High School marching band, called to make certain we would attend last Friday's football game. We were so impressed by the professional presentation saluting all military veterans. Every branch of the service was recognized and treated to the band's rendition of their specific song. Veterans from each war were recognized separately, standing to applause and thanks.

It was truly a stirring, patriotic, proud-to-be-an-American presentation, bringing tears to many eyes.

As two WWII veterans, proud to have had the honor to serve our great country, our sincere thanks to band director Mark Branson, band members and all involved to present such a very special program.

Fore the Lord

Editor, Naples Daily News:

The Mother of God House of Prayer, a retreat center in Alva, would like to thank all who helped make our sixth annual golf tournament, hosted at the Glades Country Club in Naples, a success.

It is because of the generous support from the community that we are celebrating our 21st year of service.

Joyful noise

Editor, Naples Daily News:

If you missed Fr. Jerry Kaywell's Birthday Concert you missed a great spiritual awakening. No matter what religion you might be, Fr. Jerry will bring God into your heart and soul with joy and love that will make you a different person.

His concert at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church was the most inspiring musical message of God's word of peace, love and happiness.

If you want a breath of happiness in your life, listen to one of God's true messengers. Get one of Father Jerry's CDs.

God bless you, Father Jerry.

We pray you have another 50-plus years on this earth.

The spirit lives on

Editor, Naples Daily News:

Every day the kindness of this community amazes me. We are very fortunate to live and work with people who give so much to the community.

Arhaus Furniture is new to our community and is already giving so much. They dedicated this weekend to The Ricky King Fund. Ten percent of all sales through Sunday will go to benefit the severely handicapped children of Collier County. Thursday evening they kicked off The Ricky King Fund sales weekend with a reception and fundraiser.

The generosity of their entire company was amazing.

I would like to thank Arhaus Furniture for bringing their business to Naples and supporting our community in so many ways.

And I must thank all the shoppers that are making this event a great success.

The support of our community and businesses like Arhaus will allow us to continue to fulfill the dream of the late Rich King and help the children who need us!