Cutting Mapleton’s summer rec programs
To the editor:
I am an employee of the Mapleton Recreation Department and recently found out that my anticipated job for this summer (teaching baseball) has been cut from the rec program along with swimming lessons, tennis, and arts and crafts. The selectmen apparently voted down the replenishing of the rec. department funds and have only left the pool open for free swim and weeknight Little League.
My friends and I grew up enjoying all of these programs and are trying to return the favor to the kids of the community.
My first question is how are children supposed to learn the game of baseball to be able to participate in Little League? The only reason they have the desire to play the game is from the instruction given to them in the morning baseball programs. From ages 5 and up they are able to learn and play the game every day, all summer long.
Second, how is it saving Mapleton money? The town report states that Presque Isle Rec Department will be given $10,000 to fund Mapleton’s participants. This is $2,616 more than what was spent last year for all recreation programs combined. These 50 or so kids can’t afford to travel to Presque Isle or else they would be going there already.
As one community member stated, “I thought this was a kid-friendly community, not a community that wants its kids to get out of town.” Mapleton’s selectmen are selling the kids that I coach and care about short. These kids, their parents, and this town needs these programs to remain the great community it is.
Mapleton
