I just wanted to acknowledge the Fred Meyer employees in Lacey. With Christmas chaos and drivers grumpily speeding and honking to get places, their employees always smile and truly give the best customer service. I was completely touched watching one of their box boys take an almost completely disabled customer around the store and help them with their grocery list. The kindness and patience he showed was an example and a reminder of how we should take care of each other all year long.

Thank you Fred Meyer employees, you make my day!

HEATHER LIDDELL, LACEY

I want to express my sincere gratitude to the Olympia/Lacey IT bus drivers. My special needs sister was diagnosed with colon cancer and was in the hospital this past week for surgery. The bus drivers not only had flowers and balloons delivered, but came for visits to cheer her up.

One of them said that “she is family.” With Anne’s siblings in distant locations, it has made this juncture in her life easier knowing there are so who care for her. Her goal of a speedy recovery is to get back to riding the bus with all her friends, mainly the bus drivers. So to Dave, Linda, Becky and the gang: A big thank you from Anne’s family. You have shown compassion and care in a difficult and scary time for Anne and are truly angels watching over her.

JEANNE MCCORMICKACKER, PORTLAND

I just wanted to sincerely thank the people who take the trouble to put up the large, lighted red-green-andblue star that is displayed next to Interstate 5 northbound by the Sleater-Kinney exit. It’s been there for many, many years and it’s a real boost to see it lit up on those dark, dreary mornings in December while commuting to Tacoma. I’m sure it’s enjoyed by everyone who passes it.

JILL PATTERS, OLYMPIA

Reader salute letters are subject to editing and must include a name, city and phone number for verification. Reader salutes submitted to The Olympian may be published or distributed in print, electronic or other forms. Send items of 100 words or fewer to Reader Salute, c/o The Olympian, PO Box 1219, Olympia, WA 98507. Fax letters to 360-357-0202.