Thanks for supporting The Freight House for 15 years

Dear Editor,

If members of the community haven't heard already, due to a large increase in my rent, I am officially closing the doors to The Freight House Café on April 23, after 15 glorious years.

I’d like to take this opportunity to thank you all.

To start with are my vendors. They have worked with me from the start. Their patience and kindness and guidance through the years has been tremendous to me. I thank each of them for their generosity and support.

Thank you to the local media outlets who have covered The Freight House happenings and exciting stories with the most beautiful pictures and words.

To the other small businesses in town, thank you for always picking up the phone to listen to my gripe and griping with me. Thank you for lending me paper cups and cheese or anything else I needed on the spot. Thank you for working with me and creating a community. I look forward to spending more time in all your businesses now.

To Putnam Music from Gus to Elizabeth and Salon Uccelli, it was a pleasure sharing space with you. Thank you for your kindness.

To my amazing staff, I’ve been so fortunate through the years to have hired the best people. I can’t pick a favorite crew because each one of them brought different things to the table. Each one has taught me so much about myself and the world. They have all treated the café like it was their own. Some people can’t tell who the owner is because everyone fits the role. I’m forever grateful to you for helping me fulfill my dream and letting me be a small part of your story. You are all so special to me.

Thank you to my family and friends for their unwavering support, love and advice. There have been many crying phone calls and you never gave up on me. Instead, you lifted me up and helped me to be my best self. And through the celebrations, you have been the loudest cheerleaders.

To my musicians and artists and crafters…Thank you for sharing your gift with us all. It was so special to have you in that space.

To my beautiful customers, what you have done for me is hard to put into words. You supported me from Day 1. You brought me through COVID and you never turned your back on me. You’ve graced me with your presence every day, sharing your life and struggles and celebrations. It has been a great honor to serve you. You have taught me so much. You mean everything to me.

And finally, to the little freight house that could, standing strong at 153 years old. You have been one of my loveliest relationships. Me and those four walls and gorgeous wood floor has seen you all grow and change. I've talked about you with those walls many times. I will hold close to my heart all the love and memories that were made inside this 900 square-foot building, which was once just storage, and I will continue to share its rich history wherever I go. I will always remember and keep it all close to my heart.

Thanks a latte Mahopac. Have a freight day.

Until next time, much love.

-Donna Massaro, Proprietress of The Freight House Café, 2010-2025