February 22, 2011Dear Sir,What an outstanding experience I enjoyed today at the Masterworks Museum of Bermuda Art!For a visitor from the sub-zero snows of western Canada, it was indeed a treat to come to the Botanical Gardens and have a warm welcome at the Gallery. I could hardly believe the special “Champagne and Strawberries Afternoon Affair” when advertised by the Department of Tourism, but it was all that and more. On arrival, I was intrigued by the variety of hand-made and reasonably priced works in the gift shop. Next I was greeted by the enthusiastic receptionist and signed up for the free admission and tour of the gallery. While waiting I enjoyed a hot cup of tea and pastry in the charming cafe with a view of the rose garden.At 1.20 pm Tom Butterfield, founder and creative director, gave our group of 30 plus visitors an exclusive tour of the exhibitions in the gallery. Not only is the calibre of the art work outstanding, but many droll interactive media engage the visitors in the joy of an Island visit. Who expects a motorcycle and works of art hanging in the elevator!? Or the 1950s trip in progress? Or a “Bed of Roses” on the landing. Tom Butterfield's vision of the Masterworks Gallery is thoroughly fresh and original. Of the many galleries I have visited in the English-speaking world, only the Albright-Knox in Buffalo, New York State, has as much energy and excitement in the work and the way it is exhibited.We were also regaled with Mr Butterfield's stories of the fundraising, the spirit of the Bermudian people and the businesses who have contributed so generously to make this gallery and amazing collection of artworks reflecting the many facets of Bermudian life, culture, landscape and history possible. We had a personal tour of the “cages” the conservation and preservation area of the gallery. To top it off, we had a delightful reception, hosted by Goslings, with live jazz in the lounge, a charmingly converted “tank” connected to the new cafe. All in all, I was more than pleased to purchase items from the gift shop and leave a donation, so that this fine work can continue. I applaud all the donors, volunteers, workers, conservators, the boards and the many generous people who have contributed to this excellent gallery. I also applaud the Department of Tourism for publicising this excellent special event for winter visitors to your beautiful island.LIZABETH NICHOLLSRegina, SaskatchewanWonderful hospitalityMarch 7, 2011Dear Sir,While visiting our daughter-inlaw at King Edward VII Memorial Hospital who was recovering from giving birth to our fourth grandchild, my wife and I exited quite late to discover no cabs waiting, another exiting couple found us in a quandary as to “how to get to our son's home” on Admiral Lane and without a question or a quibble Harold and his wife said “please come with us, we'll drop you off'. Needless to say this was not the usual type of response we would have received from a New York stranger as its graciousness overwhelmed us. We found the couple to be ordained religious folk who obviously provided a visiting couple with tender, loving care.My wife and I simply wished to acknowledge to your daily Bermudian readers what a wonderful added sample of your hospitality made us glow all the way home. Indeed the loveliness and beauty of the Island is certainly accompanied by a truly warm hospitable spirit extended to visitors of the lovely island. Thank you again, Harold, his wife and the gracious warmth of the population who obviously treat visitors like family.LEFF LAHUTANew York, New York