(Ed. Note: The following letters were sent to the president of the Rotary Club of Manhasset and are printed here at his request.)

On behalf of the Shelter Rock students, staff and myself, I want to thank you and the Rotary Club of Manhasset for the donation to Shelter Rock School.

As a result of the Rotary Club's generous gift, shrubs, plants and flowers will be planted on the Shelter Rock grounds enhancing the overall beauty of the property.

Again, thank you for your generosity and ongoing support of our school and for the wonderful Children's Circus that you brought to our community.

Robyn A. Mandor

Principal

Dear Manhasset Rotarians,

Within just a few days of the onset of the new school year, our students, community and nation were forever affected. There have been overwhelming losses amidst families, friends and colleagues, but as adults we have life experiences and strategies to hopefully cope with each new day. It is, however, heartwrenching to gaze into our students' eyes and see their innocence dissipate among fear, anger and confusion. Our children have suffered the inhumanity of adults. It has been difficult at times to have lighthearted moments, but then one day we heard growing rumbling approaching and looking out our windows we observed the longest trailer we had all ever seen. The circus came to town and you wonderful and thoughtful Rotarians made all the difference in the world to our 11-year-olds! Howls of laughter and genuine shouts of excitement finally filled our classrooms and so many young hearts.

As educators we can discuss the importance of human caring and kindness but you were the ones to bring meaning to our lessons amidst this painful time. This magical evening gave back to our children a little of what was lost and from there we will work to heal. We are forever indebted.

We also wish to extend our secret appreciation to your members for their donation and assistance in creating the beginnings of potted plantings. We hope to continue and to create a Peace Garden where our students have a place to reflect and appreciate the beauty of life with each new season. We will long remember your compassion. Thank you.

Team 6 Teachers

Chuck Collyer, Pam Lawrence, Jody Liebowitz,

Cathy Mitchell, Alice Moss, Joyce Rappaport, Marie Rogers