We have a conundrum — how to ‘say it all’ in under 300 words? There’s so much to be said for all the years the Neiman family has given to the community of Alpena and all who came here to shop at their Family Market.

No matter what group came knocking, they opened their hearts and made a space for them to be out front with buddy poppies, red kettle bell ringers, and so many more that used their front door as a venue for their appeals.

The Neiman grocery cart drill team entertained us during the Independence Day parades.

The giant balloons on their roof will all be tucked away in our collective memories.

When I walk the halls of the hospital and read, “Donated by Hal & Jean Neiman,” I’ll say a little prayer of thanks that we had them in our midst for 37 years.

“May the road rise up to meet you. May the wind be always at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face, and the rains fall soft upon your fields. And, until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of His hand.”

KATHLEEN MELVILLE-HALL,

Alpena