Thanks to Austin

Hi,
    As a New Orleanian who recently landed in Austin with my husband and two children, I've been wanting to say thank you to this town for taking us in so hospitably. I think that many evacuees have been so swamped with logistics that we've barely been able to check out the concerts and relief efforts – national and local – on our behalf. I've been stacking up issues of The Austin Chronicle and look forward to catching up. I did get to look over the issue with Aaron Neville and Willie Nelson on the cover and appreciate all of the tips concerning the “Best of Austin” [Oct. 14].
    I wish I were able to articulate my thanks to so many people who have been so kind, generous, patient, and welcoming to us. You acknowledged that your list of folks was not complete, but may I kindly add our own "Austin Angel" to your list? She is Lori Simon, owner of Mars Restaurant, and she took in our whole family, sight unseen, and welcomed us with open arms. She and her circle of friends knew what we needed before we did – and had food, new childrens clothes, books, Internet access, camaraderie, information about Austin schools – I could go on and on – and she quickly dismisses any fawning on our part, and insists that it is her pleasure! Thanks also to Steve and Gabby Wertheimer of the Continental Club (I saw them on your list!) for encouraging us to come to Austin, and for hooking us up with Lori. They rescued us, and I don't know how to thank them enough. Maybe one day we'll be in the position to help people in that way, and their example will serve as our guide.
    Thanks, and again, as we thaw out from the trauma of the past few weeks, we look forward to checking out as much of Austin as we can.