To The Editor:

Late this afternoon (Tuesday) I raced over to the Friendly/Citgo gas station at 47 Church Hill Road to get my gas tank filled one last time, having learned this morning that they would be closing permanently at 4 pm today. To my knowledge this was the last full-service gas station in this area.

As a disabled driver, I relied exclusively on this gas station to fuel my car, since I'm unable to pump my own gas. But it was also reassuring to know that if a tire was low or my windshield needed cleaning, all I had to do was ask and the staff was always willing to help. Everyone was truly friendly, and I enjoyed our brief chats.

Now I don't know where I can go to fill up the gas tank. Surely other disabled or elderly residents must feel the same way.

It's always sad to see a longtime community business close its doors, but this time it's unsettling as well.

Thank you to all who worked there, including Spyke, and may all of you find success in the future. You will be missed!

Sarah Middeleer

Newtown