Dear Editor: Thankful for Friends

Dear Editor,

I am doubly indebted to the people of Whitehall!

Many may remember a time, about ten or so years ago, when one of the town's restaurateurs started a bucket campaign to purchase a new bike for me after my old one wore out. I purchased a used Surrey bike, a four-wheeled contraption, that I pedaled all over Whitehall and much of the immediate area south of town. This bike got me around for the next six or seven years.

After that was pretty well worn out, again, with the help of a good friend, I was able to purchase a used golfcart. The batteries were about toast, but it got me around for a while before I could finally purchase new ones. These batteries lasted three years, upon which, with the generous help of yet another friend, I purchased yet another set of batteries. Don't I have the BEST friends?!

Now, those batteries are getting weak, thanks to our extreme Montana winters and other unforeseen circumstances. After some consideration, I have decided to upgrade to lithium batteries. Though quite a bit more expensive, these should last about three or four times longer (around 8-10 years), last longer between charges, and lighten my Sunshine's load, granting a bit more power. Don't worry; I won't abuse it!

I say all that to say this: THANK YOU!

From the bottom of my heart, I want to thank the people of Whitehall who have seen fit to contribute to my cause! I understand many of my donors wish to remain anonymous; that is fine. They know who they are, and they have my undying gratitude. To those I know, I will offer private, individual thanks as well. Most of all, dear Editor, thank you for your part in all this!

Several people have now asked me if I've gotten my new batteries yet-no, not yet, but soon! Very soon!

With a grateful and overflowing heart.

CHARLES HADDON SHANK

Whitehall, Montana