After reading Mr. Crespo’s disapproval of supporting the Depot, I feel compelled to write this letter in defense of the City Commission, the Depot, and the Historic Lake Wales Society. I personally commend the Commission for regarding these “old” buildings as important to the city.

He refers to things his father taught him. Well, my father always taught me to have pride in my heritage, because that’s what makes us who we are today. Our family is now into the fifth generation of Lake Wales residents and we’ve never wanted to live anywhere else due to its family atmosphere and its history. Yes, the city is experiencing economic difficulties, but we are not alone. We will survive this, just as we survived the Great Depression. Lake Waleans are strong because our history has taught us to be. We cling to the religious and family values that lead us to help others in times of need. I know some relative newcomers to Lake Wales don’t feel that same passion for our history, but those of us born and raised here certainly do.