My wife and I left San Jose, Calif., on Sun., Aug. 24, and arrived at our new house in Ave Maria, Fla., the next Friday, all the time trying to avoid Hurricane Harvey. We evacuated our house on Fri., Sept. 8, and arrived in Andalusia, Ala., due to my sister’s good friend, Tabitha, finding us a hotel here.

Not knowing what to expect and arriving at 3 a.m., tired, exhausted, and stressed, we got the last hotel room for miles. The next day we awoke and went out in the town to eat and get some thing’s done. We went to eat breakfast at the Huddle House, went to Walmart, and then drove to the town square and wandered around with nothing but time to waste. We went into Ward & Co. because of his window display and left after meeting Mike Ward, the owner. We then went to Big Mike’s and ate. We also went into Lavi Nails earlier in the afternoon for some much needed pampering.

Everywhere Wendy and I went, we met real people who were concerned for us and compassionate. We were even invited to go to church the next day by a very nice couple. Wendy said if our home gets trashed by Irma, we could move here to this beautiful town. I wanted to write this and thank the people of Andalusia for being the great hospitable people you ALL are. Thank you for making us feel safe and relaxed, we really appreciate your kindness. Penelope, our Pomeranian, says thank you also!!

Andalusia, Ala., I am proud to say I love this town and wish you all the best in you life adventures.

Sincerely,

Kari and Wendy Gonter

Ave Maria, Fla.

Evacuees and now Andalusia, Alabama lovers!!