To The Editor:
I was startled when I read in the article “Mad River Park” that someone said, "There was no public space that parents can take their kids." This is not true. Waitsfield and The Valley have two rec fields that may be enjoyed for a number of activities. The Couples Field has operated since the late 1950s as a public space for youth and their families. Today, it is the home of Little League and fall soccer. There is room for a regulation soccer field and smaller fields which have erroneously been described as not big enough. However, it wouldn't work so well for spring soccer. The fields are often used for Frisbee and family get-togethers and pickup ball.
Our new pavilion is used almost every day by travelers seeking a lunch place and workers during their lunch hour. True North uses it all summer for a faculty training site. It is also host to several birthday parties. What people don't realize is that this is all free if the kitchen and bathrooms are not open. Next year the club will be installing a new volleyball court which we anticipate will be popular with our young people. This private facility operates for the sole purpose of providing recreational space for the Mad River Valley youth and their families. It is partially funded by your tax dollars and a banner program. Fayston, Warren and Waitsfield towns budget $1,000 each year and Moretown has given $500. It is staffed by volunteers who receive no monetary payment.
The second field is a very large green space adjacent to the new town clerk's office. The town pays for mowing this expanse all summer and to date it's only used occasionally by the polo team and dog walkers. As a taxpayer, I would very much like to see our money being put to better use. How about we figure out a way to use this space and let people know they are welcome. I urge you all to plan an event at this public space. How about a town celebration, a band concert, field day or a barbecue? It would be a great space for flying kites!
Lynne Kingsbury
Waitsfield
