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From: Jeff B.
Sent: Monday, August 13, 2007 12:16 PM
To: Harmony Cafe
Subject: Thanks
Hi,
I want to say thanks for the excellent atmosphere Harmony Cafe
provides. I feel comfortable there. I like to stop in and read a bit
while I have a soda. It doesn't sound like much, but, to me, this is
very important.
About 5 years ago, I was disabled due to mental illness which still
continues. For over 3 years I did almost nothing save see family,
attend church and go to medical appointments. A couple years ago my
psychiatrist persuaded me to try going to Friendship Place, a drop in
center for the mentally ill in Neenah. Friendship place has been a big
help to me.
Passing the time each day is a huge problem for me due to my depression
and anxiety. Lori Hill, the director at Friendship Place, mentioned
Harmony Cafe to me as another place I might feel comfortable visiting.
So I tried it a couple times. Harmony Cafe has become a big part of
helping me get through the day. I visit 3 to 5 times a week. The
people that I see there and the few I've spoken with have differed in
age, race and appearance. I like this very much. Staff and customers
have all been very nice.
I would like to say a special thanks to the hosts of Thursday open mic,
Carolyn and Jake. I play guitar and have performed at open mic several
times. Even before I was sick, I had stage fright and never performed
in public. But the feel at open mic is more like friends taking turns
playing songs or doing some other art form for each other. I think the
credit for this goes to Jake and Carolyn. I am especially self
conscious because I didn't play for about 3 years when I got sick. My
skills aren't what they once were. I can no longer play a song without
the music and/or lyrics in front of me. But this doesn't matter at open
mic. Everyone is encouraged to just give it their best shot. The
audience is attentive and appreciative. I have also gotten the chance
to hear some live music again.
I used to love this but can no longer go to gigs because of my illness.
The performances are eclectic, interesting and often pretty darn good.
Carolyn, Jake and their band members also offer up fine musical
performance on occasion.
Once again, thanks to Harmony Cafe, Carolyn and Jake.
Sincerely,
Jeff Berton
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