In the midst of all the negative news we hear, I'd like to insert something positive: a word of gratitude to a good neighbor.

We live on the lake in Lakeport, and last Saturday morning the east wind was stirring up huge breakers, beating up our ski boat which was tied up to our dock.

Even though all docklines had held and fenders were out, the boat had been banging around all night and the wind was getting stronger.

We went to Hillside Honda to buy new, larger fenders, and the owner Paul Breunig was in his office.

I asked him if one of his service men could pull our boat out of the water since the high winds were projected to last a couple more days (my son's truck was not available).

He said he'd do it himself ... Within minutes, he picked up our trailer while my husband drove the boat to the Fifth Street ramp, and in about 15 more minutes, the boat was parked in front of my house, greatly relieving my state of mind.

And he refused to let me pay anything for this service.

Thanks, Paul, we really appreciate your kindness.

Verna Schaffer lives in Lakeport, Calif.