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To the Editor of THE EAGLE:-
Following the July 9 article "Quinn's Legacy rink site
lost as option runs out," directors of Quinn's Legacy
Foundation received many inquiries about the status of
our efforts to build the Quinn Connally Memorial Sports
Facility
(QCMSF). We are happy to report that QLF continues to move
forward.
We are currently engaged in negotiations with landowners
as we seek a home for this much-needed facility. QLF has
a responsibility to everyone who has donated his or her hard
earned money to this cause to operate as efficiently as possible.
While the board appreciated the chamber's suggested donation
of land, and continues to look forward to the chamber's support,
that donation came with a substantial list of conditions
and the burden of almost $1 million in site preparation costs.
After exhaustive research, QLF has selected Ice Builders
Inc. as lead contractor for this project. Ice Builders Inc.
will work closely with local contractors to construct a facility
we all can be proud of, while keeping costs down. An $8 million
project takes time, planning and flexibility. In just 30
months, QLF has raised approximately $400,000 in donations
from the community and is currently in the closing stages
of securing financing for the completion of this project.
Making this much progress in this limited period of time
is nothing short of remarkable and is a clear indication
of the commitment of the QLF board of directors, to say nothing
of the community's support for this project.
The story of Quinn's Legacy Foundation is not just about
building a sports arena, but also about giving the youth
of our community goals to strive for. We, like you, are all
members of this community. We read about the almost daily
reports of violence on our streets. Through sports, academics
and mentoring in a positive environment, the QCMSF will help
guide kids away from drugs and violence by showing them the
value of hard work, self-confidence and respect for others.
This project has put Berkshire County in the spotlight with
media coverage in the New York Times, USA Today, Sports Illustrated
and more.
Quinn overcame many hurdles in his young life and dreamed
of playing hockey. Quinn's Legacy Foundation will continue
to follow his dream; we shall overcome all hurdles and fulfill
the dream of building the Quinn Connally Memorial Sports
Facility. We remain committed to this goal and continue to
work hard to achieve it.
We look forward to seeing everyone attend our next event,
the third annual Memorial Skate-Bike-Walk-Run-a-thon, to
be held on the Ashuwillticook Rail Trail on Sunday, Aug.
24. You can skate, bike, walk or run to show your support.
Advanced registration is suggested. More information on QLF
and this event can be obtained by visiting our Web site,
www.quinnslegacy.org or by calling 413-743-7558.
STEPHEN M. CONNALLY
Adams, August 5, 2003
The author is co-founder, Quinn's Legacy Foundation. The
letter was also signed by board members Ann Connally, Mark
Connally, Curt Preisser, Deborah Sadowy, Tom Flynn III,
Lisa Leary, John Mizia, Mark Scoco, Jason Tanzman and Arvin
Vincent.
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