Giving Thanks

For A Skate Park

To the Editor:

I can’t think of a more fitting time for the opening of Newtown’s Skate Park than the time of Thanksgiving. Therefore, I must take advantage of this chance circumstance to express my deep gratitude to the Newtown community at large for supporting the skate park campaign to fruition. American Ramp Company and the Newtown Parks & Recreation Department have constructed an absolutely fantastic park beyond my greatest expectations, and I am truly in awe of it. It’s a beautiful addition to Dickinson Park, and a priceless addition our town.

The “soft” opening day for the skate park was Saturday, November 20. The expressions of gratitude from the skaters and bikers were endless. They smiled from ear to ear as they rode, impressing even their own humble selves. People drove by honking their horns in support while admiring the beauty of the park. Hoards of young people, including my own three sons, enjoyed a day of skateboarding and BMX riding in a place that they can finally call their own… literally. They designed our skate park, and they’re quite proud of that. In fact, they’re beyond proud. They’re at home, they’re supported, they’re safe, and they’re living in spirit. I don’t remember a day in my 34 years as a Newtown resident that I felt more grateful.

 These impressive young people have now been given validation that they are valued. All young people should be served in a community, whether or not they follow the flow of the mainstream. I, for one, praise those who dare to branch off the beaten path and do what they love, regardless of what people may think or say, or how they may be judged, as they too often are. May we all be so firm in knowing and expressing ourselves as do these talented, creative kids who are so dedicated to the “extreme” sports that they truly love. Bless their souls. I’m proud that my community filled a need for these young people.

 We must not ever take the abundance in our lives for granted, and let us always remember what shared abundance can accomplish for a community. That’s what our skate park represents to me; a monument of generosity, made possible by the efforts of fine people who cared about a group of kids who had long felt cast off. This is to be recognized and commended.

 I hope to see all who share my appreciation at the official ribbon cutting ceremony for the Newtown Skate Park at Dickinson Park on Saturday, December 11, at 10 am.

With most sincere thanks,

Erin Heneghan

Appleblossom Lane, Newtown                            November 20, 2010