The abruptness at which the Manson Park board meeting came to an end didn't allow for a satisfactory farewell to those who spent precious personal time and energy on behalf of all of us. I hope that by writing this letter, they can be recognized for their service.

A few years ago my wife and I were involved in a minor fender bender. The most important thing that I learned from that incident was the fact that two people, sitting right next to each other, can experience the same event and view it so differently. We disagreed on many of the facts...even down to whose fault it was. Our current Manson Parks situation isn't any different. Opinions have been formed based on perceptions that may or may not be factual, all depending on where you sit. At this time I would encourage all who feel the need to get involved, either in discussion or action, to step back, take a breath, drop the stones that have been accumulated along the way and move forward.

With that being said, I would like to thank those Board members with whom I recently served. The parks are better for their time and effort. Projects and events that benefited all in the community were initiated and supported by them and that should not get lost in the shuffle. Cindy, Lyle, Shannon and Pat, I wish you all the best. I hope the District can call on your expertise in the future. If any person has the inclination to say anything to those who served this community, please be sure to thank them.

Len England