Dear Editor:

It is truly incredible what a community can accomplish when its members work together. The Haldane School Foundation's recent benefit for the school playground was a perfect example of this.

On Sunday, October 14, this community pulled together for an event that surpassed the Foundation's expectations. It began with the dedicated members of the Playground Committee, led by Mary Lou Sussmeier and Pamela Gunther, who studied the existing equipment at the Haldane School and, finding that it was dangerous and not up to code, came up with a plan for a state-of-theart playground that will enhance the physical fitness and interpersonal development of our young children.

The Haldane School Foundation came together with a strategy to raise a portion of the necessary funds. Next, the Osborn family of Garrison- Fred, Anne, Hank and Krista- most generously donated their beautiful ancestral home, Cat Rock, for the benefit party. Local merchants, restaurants, coaches, sports facilities and talented individuals donated their wares, time and expertise to the Silent Auction that was held at the event. Foundation Trustees donated the food, beverages and decorations that helped to make the day a success. Even the weather cooperated- the sky was bright and the air was crisp, giving us a perfect autumn day to enjoy the spectacular views from Cat Rock. And, finally, approximately 130 people turned out for the event.

The result is that enough money was raised to purchase a major piece of the new equipment for the Haldane Playground. It couldn't have been done without the dedication of this fine community and the Osborn's in opening their home to our community. We should all be proud to be a part of it.

John Milner President, The Haldane

School Foundation

Cold Spring