October 18, 2013Dear Sir,Would you please publish this ‘Letter of Thanks’ to the many supporters/stakeholders who made the YES Day which Celebrated Middletown, happen on Saturday, October 12. This effort was initiated by The Bermuda Coalition as well as members of that neighbourhood and supported by Imagine Bermuda. The activities in the Parson’s Road Park went on in spite of the persistent rain on that afternoon, demonstrating a spirit of commitment.The effort received both direct and support in kind from a variety of sources; including Arnold’s, Barritt’s, Butterfield & Vallis, C-Mart, Dunkley’s, Gorham’s and Marketplace. Businesses in the Middletown area such as Artie Black’s, Cake Shop, Central Auto Garage, Degraff’s, House of India, and Kim’s Tyres all helped to make things happen.Key support came from Bermuda Security Group sponsoring the Train, Spanish Town donating the stage, Mackie Burgess Electrical supplying a large generator and VL’s donating a variety of items including — appropriately — rain ponchos. The Corporation of Hamilton assisted with traffic control support and Bermuda Cricket Board provided tents.The emcee, Mr Magic of Irie Radio offered a superb colour commentary for the afternoon. DJ Jungles — a Middletown resident — provided the soundtrack for the occasion. David Wingate, as well as ‘homeboys’ Gary Phillips and Phil Butterfield, highlighted aspects of the area’s heritage.The variety of challenging activities for the young and old alike were provided by Darren Booth and his skateboard facility, the Anglican Pembroke community and the Bermuda Regiment. Robyn DeSilva organised a mural in the face of the rain. The New Testament community organised two hours of fun football in the rain as well as health screening for all.We would also like to thank those who braved the weather to entertain; including ‘locals’ young Dominique Brown, and the Bermuda Squad. The voice of Toni Robinson called out the best in all of us.While preparing the area that morning for the event, a resident — Freeman Lima — living just off Parson’s Road came over — unsolicited — to offer assistance, notwithstanding one arm being immobilised by a stroke. He had brought over a pop-up tent and was offering to bring a larger one and a generator. He demonstrated the traditional spirit of rallying the community which is a part of our shared heritage.Again, let me offer a deep appreciation to all who said YES; yes to Middletown, yes to re-energising our community.GLENN FUBLER(On behalf of the Organising Committee)