A Wonderful World

To the Editor:

I couldn’t help but think of Louie Armstrong’s song, “What A Wonderful World,” last week as I was one of those accepting a check from the Newtown Torpedoes Swim Team. Surely, it is people like the coaches of this team to whom Mr Armstrong’s music refers.

A couple of weeks ago I received a call from Beth Hoolehan, a parent member of this popular team. She wanted to let me know that Newtown Youth Services had been chosen to be the recipient of donations from the Torpedoes. As a nonprofit agency, anytime anyone calls to say we are to be on the receiving end of a donation makes for a wonderful surprise! In lieu of gifts at the end of the season the four wonderful coaches of the Newtown Torpedoes request that team members and their families substitute a contribution to a local charitable organization or agency. This year, we are that agency.

On behalf of the staff and board of Newtown Youth Services, I would like to extend our gratitude for this generous gift. As a “swim mom” for eight years when our sons swam competitively, I am quite aware of the amount of time swim coaches dedicate to their team. Their “job” does not begin and end with the swim meet. During a season coaches live and breathe the sport — constantly strategizing and reformatting individual swimmers and relay members.

To Mary and Glen Atkinson, Tracy Fiore, and Nancie Hubbard, thank you so very much for your gift. As a result of your selfless act, Newtown Youth Services received over $1,100. Please be assured that your donation will be used thoughtfully to continue our mission of providing the highest level of services to the youth and families of Newtown.

With deepest gratitude,

Roseanne G. Loring

Director, Program Services

Newtown Youth Services

10 Glen Road, Sandy Hook                                         April 12, 2006