To the editor:

I would like to thank A Day to Remember, Amici's Pizzeria, Baystate Chowda Company, Bollywood Grill, Butcher Boy, Edible Arrangements, Methuen, Fuddruckers, Joe Fish, The Loft, Panera Bread, The Ninety-Nine, Mediterranean Villa and McAloons Liquors, for supporting the North Andover Senior Center's 5th Annual "A Matter of Taste" sponsored by the Friends of the North Andover Senior Center. This year it featured local restaurants and The Acting Out Theater Company production of Broadway Theater Hits, and it was a great success.

I am very aware in today's economy what it takes for a restaurant or liquor store to donate enough food and beverage for more than 150 people. And then to also provide employees from their restaurant who greeted and served the clientele is above and beyond expectations.

Without the commitment and support from our local businesses, the success of this evening would not have happened.

This year all the funds that we received are designated to support North Andover's low-income elders who have exhausted all heating resources and are unable to meet the cost of heating their homes through the winter of 2010.

Again, I thank you. There are many organizations that approach you every day for your support. I am very grateful that you have chosen to support your local Senior Center.

Irene M. O'Brien

Director of Elder Services

North Andover