Help Make The Skate Park A Reality

To the Editor:

My wife and I have lived in Newtown for over 11 years. We are the very proud parents of three boys, ages 11, 9, and 5. Over the years they have been involved in a number of Parks and Recreation programs which have exposed them to valuable lessons about good sportsmanship and teamwork, and provided them with great coaches and facilities.

Also, over the years, they have developed a passion for skateboarding — yes, even my 5-year-old. They love to practice and spend many hours perfecting their moves. I have taken them to other town’s skate parks so that they have a safe place to skate, and each time I do, I am always impressed by the camaraderie that I witness. There are no coaches, but there is plenty of guidance, as more experienced skaters offer tips to the younger ones. There are no teams, but the support that these kids show for each other is undeniable, cheering each other on for cool moves and even picking each other up when one falls.

This town has so much to offer, and no one, or group should be excluded. I want my kids, and all skaters in Newtown, to know that their chosen sport is just as important as any other, and that their town supports them by providing them with a safe place to go to enjoy their sport.

As a concerned parent, and member of the Donate to Skate committee, I respectfully request that you consider helping us to reach our goal of building a skate park in Newtown and acknowledging this large population of kids, like my own, who are so dedicated to this sport. For more information about Donate to Skate or to make a donation, please visit our website at www.donatetoskate.com. A donation of any amount is greatly appreciated. Thank you.

Chris and Karen Grosso

6 Harvest Common Road, Sandy Hook                  January 13, 2009