Where Were The Helmets?

To the Editor:

As usual, Newtown did a great job on the parade this year. There is one aspect I’d like to comment on. The Donate to Skate group, while skateboarding through the parade, was not wearing any helmets. Growing up in Newtown my whole life and going to school in Newtown, everyone always stressed the point of safety and wearing helmets.

What kind of message is this group showing the youth in town while not wearing their helmets? I think especially now with all of the recent incidences with concussions and deaths due to head injuries now more than ever helmets are needed.

Maybe the parade planning committee can make it mandatory for people riding bikes and skating next year to wear helmets. I know I want my son learning right from wrong, and seeing kids/teenagers riding bikes/skateboarding without wearing helmets certainly sends the wrong message.

Thank you.

Melissa Rockafellow

308 Edgewood Avenue, Waterbury                        September 8, 2009