To the editor:

A special thank you to all that contributed to my governors race and also a large thank you to my campaign manager, Linda Keefer and helpers, Lee Longdon and their husbands, Keith and Jerry. Thank you to VFW Post 4353 of Pine Island and Commander, Len Grover; Sr. Vice Commander, Larry Guy and Vice Commander, Jan Sausman and everyone there for their support.

Thanks to Winn-Dixie and Budweiser for their donations.

Thanks to our fabulous auctioneer, Ron Bokros and his aides Annie Bokros and Lee Longdon.

Thanks to the Florida Flatland Band and Carla and Wayne for their music.

Thanks to Bill Wensink and Dave Beckner, John Ristow, VFW Post 4353, VFW Men’s Auxiliary and VFW Women’s Auxiliary for the contributions of beverages.

A thank you for everyone who helped in the car wash. Thirty-six cars were washed and dried in two hours.

Thanks to all who donated cakes for the cake walk.

Thanks to VFW 4353 Women’s Auxiliary for the dinner donations.

Thank you to everyone who contributed for the 50/50 contests and brown bags and everyone who ran them.

Thanks to Dave and Kristen for the special party they held for my election. Thanks to the band members who donated their time to play music there.

Thanks to Signmakers for the sign at the VFW Post 4353.

Thanks to Jeri Keller for ordering shirts and contributions of money towards them.

Just remember, it’s character and decency that counts.

Love to all,

Ethel Gilbert

St. James City