A Powerful And Positive Experience

To the Editor:

We are writing to first express our thanks to Joel Zeisler and all the volunteers of Leaps of Faith Disabled Water Ski Club, for providing a rewarding and challenging activity for disabled children and adults. As parents of two visually impaired boys, we have seen first hand the joy and sense of accomplishment that comes from learning to water ski, an activity that is rarely afforded to disabled people. Many of the skiers travel long distances to participate for these beneficial water ski clinics. We are grateful to Joel for providing the clinics, and consider ourselves fortunate that they are held here in our home town.

We are also writing to express our concerns over the controversy that has developed between Leaps of Faith and the Lake Zoar Authority. It is particularly disconcerting to us, since the clinics are not only valuable, but convenient. Our children would very likely not have had the opportunity to learn to water ski otherwise. Mr Zeisler and his associates donate their time and energy, and provide the boats, fuel, and all of the equipment, much of which is specialized for the disabled. They patiently work with each skier to offer the best chances of success. It is a very powerful and positive experience that is provided without charge.

We ask that the Lake Zoar Authority refrain from unfairly charging this valuable, caring, nonprofit organization and instead continue to assist them in providing a safe and exciting, life-changing experience to disabled individuals. Charging for the patrols may well result in fewer clinics, and fewer disabled citizens having the opportunity to water ski.

Sincerely yours,

Laurie & Rich Eckler

33 Osborne Hill Road Ext, Sandy Hook                  October 29, 2008