On behalf of the Greater Portland organizations for adults with special needs we would like to thank Jim Paquette and Diane York, owners of Memory Lane Music Hall in Standish, for their overwhelming generosity.

When we approached Jim and Diane to put on a dance for adults with special needs in the Greater Portland area they did not hesitate.

Not only did they not hesitate, but would not charge anything for this dance. They provided hamburgers, hot dogs, drinks and chips at no cost to anyone.

Anyone that was there on Sunday, Sept. 14, had a smile on their face from the time they entered until they left (and they left exhausted from dancing and socializing the afternoon away!)

Another person to thank is David Currier of Music Circus for donating his time and talent as a singer and one-man band for this event. David had the place hopping and also had many members of the audience singing with him! It was perfect.

It is an honor to have met such special people in the small community of Standish. Not only was the first dance a success, but there will be two dances annually at their request. Once in the fall and then in the spring. Additionally on Sunday, Nov. 2, they have invited these special adults back to have a costume dance to celebrate Halloween.

Their generosity continues with a benefit dance they will be hosting Oct. 25 for the group of Special Olympic athletes of Choices Are For Everyone. This benefit will allow us to purchase uniforms and help with lodging for the athletes in Orono at the Summer Special Olympics next June.

It is amazing, to say the least, for what these people have done to give these special adults a better quality of life that enables them to socialize outside their individual agencies.

Thank you again Jim Paquette and Diane York for all you do and who you are. We need more people like you.

Helene and John Porter, Standish

Jan and Bill White, Windham