Supporters & Sponsors
Below are select quotes from letters sent to us, Parks & Rec., and the Burlington Free Press in support of an 18-hole disc golf course in Leddy Park.
From: Jon Adler, Co-Owner of Skinny Pancake and Union Street Media
“It’s clear that a lot of misinformation has [been] disseminated about “clearcutting Leddy.” This is a public space that is ideal for a popular, carbon-neutral and low impact sport. The narrow avenues of brush removed are far from … ‘clear cutting’…
“As a business owner, I understand the importance of outdoor amenities that make our town special and attract people to live and travel here. Disc golf courses are fun, free for everybody, and encourage people to get outside. All you need to enjoy it is a pair of shoes and a frisbee.”
From: Mary Cosgrove
“I have been a resident of Burlington for most of my life and that’s a long time since I am 63 years old. I also have paid taxes in Burlington for many years. I have used Leddy Park for many years. My son played hockey at the rink and as a family we have used the beach and walking trails. I see no conflict in park use by installing a disc golf course.
“Many people seem to have the misconception that there will be hoards of rowdy people playing the sport. This is an uninformed opinion of the sport. Disc golfers play in small groups like foursomes or even alone. The people I have played with are respectful of the environment and in no way rowdy.”
From: William Scannell, seasonal Parks & Rec. employee
“As a long time seasonal employee (4yrs) of Parks and Recreation I am writing this letter in support of a disc golf course in Leddy Park. I feel a disc golf course will highlight the splendor and beauty of Burlington’s public park system. I am a firm believer in quality public institutions, but I feel my appreciation comes from my employment in the public domain. I feel a disc golf course will open the eyes of the public at large to the beauty I see.”
From: Scott Homsted, New North End resident
“As a resident of the New North End, and a staunch believer in the USE of city parks, I cannot think of a more appropriate use for the lands at Leddy Park. A disc golf course will fit in seamlessly with the existing uses at the park such as softball, soccer, tennis, and hockey. The minimal selective clearing of trees proposed for the course will actually improve the health of the forest. While I can understand the misgivings of abutting neighbors who worry about change, these misgivings seem guided by fear and misunderstanding rather than any true threat to their property or way of life. I am reminded of the uproar from neighbors of the Burlington Bike Path prior to its construction. I think it’s pretty much unanimous that that project worked out well.”
From: Tricia Gustafson
“A friend of mine introduced me to disc golf several months ago. I had the opportunity to play a few times this summer at the Waterbury course and at a course in Massachusetts. It’s been a wonderful addition to our many outdoor family activities. The whole family can be together in the outdoors while enjoying relaxation, challenge, and joy. My 4 year old daughter is learning about patience, rules, nature, technique and getting great exercise. My husband and I get a chance to relax and have fun while not spending a lot of money. I LOVE it, will continue to play, and fully support the course at Leddy. I’ve been to courses during the week and on weekends, and I saw maybe 10-12 people over the two hour period. I didn’t see any cans, bottles or cigarette butts on the ground. There were signs explaining basic etiquette (clean up after yourself, no loud swearing, etc). There were of all types of people, and everyone was friendly and respectful.”
From: Kristin Miskavage
“Disc Golf is a great, low pressure sport that allows people to get outside and enjoy our beautiful open spaces. I’ve found that this activity generally attracts socially-responsible people: small sets of friends and/or family. What’s best is that people can be at different ages and ability levels and still enjoy playing together.”
From: Dan French
“All three of my daughters have at least tried Disc Golf, although currently only my youngest (11 years old) joins her uncle and myself on the course. I personally have actively played Disc Golf for 6 and a half years and we have found the sport to be a wonderful family activity.”
Other notable supporters and sponsors of an 18-hole disc golf course in Leddy Park:
Dan Smith, Mayoral Candidate
Sharon Gutwin, owner of The Rehab Gym
Northfield Savings Bank