I wish to thank All Island Taxi for helping to sustain the life of my friend who I have known for 25 years. I met Anabelle Platt in 1979 when she began attending my church services at St. Vincent De Paul, in Elmont.

Anabelle suffered disabilities which resulted in a sheltered and protected family life from early age. She hardly exited from her home and when the possibility of living in a group home arose, her parents forbade it. She came to Mass every Sunday and asked support of her wish to leave her family and join the group home. Gradually after six months of religious counseling, she had the courage to join a group home in Roslyn.

The only ill effect of this decision was she was not able to travel easily to church as the group home was in another town. She now needed some type of secure, inexpensive and safe transportation. I asked Robert McBride, owner of All Island Taxi for help. Robert arranged a weekly travel program for Anabelle which enabled her to continue attending our church services for the next seven years. Robert discounted the price in half and convinced his drivers to support this program. Robert said, "It was our way of giving back to the community as Anabelle is a very special person."

I am so happy to report today that Anabelle is 49, and is a healthy, articulate, and vivacious member of our community thanks to the people who supported her in her need. She reminds me of my saying, "Goodness is your Color. In this life story, All Island Taxi is brilliant!" Thank You.

Reverend Monsignor Thomas Hartman

Director of Radio and Television at Telecare

Television Center for the Diocese of Rockville Centre