To the editor:

In an effort to find alternate ways to raise the needed funds for this year's Yankee Homecoming I came up with the idea to host a dance celebrating the music of Motown Records' 50th Anniversary. I was born and raised in Detroit right during the midst of the Motown heyday and absolutely love that sound. I also remember dancing on the front porch of our home with my sister, aunt and uncle trying to lip sync "Dancing In the Streets" by Martha and the Vandellas. It was loads of fun then and the dance party held on Friday, June 19 at the Mission Oak Grill was loads of fun too!

I would like to thank each and every person who, by attending, took the time from their busy schedules to come, provided financial support and danced the night away in support of Yankee Homecoming! I expected a good crowd, but this was even better than that. A fabulous time was had by all. Like me, some people dressed in '60s and '70s outfits. We gave away door prizes, some of which were donated by the Mission Oak Grill, Newburyport Chamber of Commerce, Domino's Pizza, Dennis Palazzo and me.

Special thanks are in order to the Mission Oak Grill and 1450 AM WNBP as well. Mission Oak Grill manager Jessica Duffy was extremely helpful in working out the details for the evening's event and having faith with me that it was a great idea that would draw a crowd and funds to Yankee Homecoming. WNBP owners Carl Strube and Pete Falconi provided their services as the disc jockeys for the night and were a huge hit too! They played all of the old tunes that everyone seemed to know the words of. The dance floor was not empty for any song the entire night!

I would also like to extend a personal thanks to the committee — Dennis Palazzo, Bianka Bailey and Iris Taylor.

Given this economic climate, my heart has been truly touched by the outpouring of support for Yankee Homecoming. Although this event surely will assist in the funding of the parade and a portion of the 1st Annual Youth Community Service Awards, we still have a way to go in making sure that all of the traditional events continue and are of the quality and standard that Newburyport deserves.

If there is anyone out there who wants to join this "And The Beat Goes On!" effort by lending financial support, please give me a call— 978-255-2184; or send an e-mail to yh2009thebeatgoeson@comcast.net.

Thanks again to all!

Kathleen Bailey

Yankee Homecoming 2009 General Chairwoman