Thanks for great Libertyfest 2005

To the editor:

Old Town Cape would like to thank everyone who made Libertyfest 2005 possible and fun despite the weather. We appreciate everyone's patience. Some 5,000 people showed up for our magnificent fireworks.

The weather created special memories this year. Parade participants waited an hour to march in light rain. The Dixieland band played tirelessly for 90 minutes. Buckner Brewing, Port Cape Girardeau and the Sidewalk Sandwich Company opened their doors to musicians and face painters who couldn't be outside. River Radio and KFVS12 generously publicized the schedule changes. The Convention and Visitors Bureau sheltered everyone who waited for the rain to stop. Volunteers remained energetic. Mayor Jay Knudtson led the Pledge of Allegiance with a bullhorn at Riverfront Park. The weather did not dampen our patriotic spirit.

Particular thanks to Bank of Missouri, this year's presenting sponsor which added so much to the event. We thank River Radio, our media sponsor, and the CVB and city for their invaluable support.

Libertyfest is financed through donations and in-kind services. Without these sponsors, the event would not be possible.

I want to thank the Libertyfest committee: Tim Arbeiter, Tim Blattner, Michelle Dubaj, Sara Hurst, Jeff Jernigan, Scott Johnson, Don Jung, Mark Majoros, Chuck Martin, Beth McFerron, Claudia Ruediger, Larry and Jean Underberg and myself. These volunteers devote eight months of preparation to making Libertyfest memorable. Their unselfish commitment to this community speaks to the true meaning of our Fourth of July holiday, "As American as Cape."

MARSHA TOLL, Co-chair, Libertyfest 2005, Cape Girardeau