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From:Laura Buggy <br />To:Adam Edwards <br />Cc:Long Lake Rowing Club <br />Subject:Letter in support of Long Lake Rowing Crew <br />Date:Wednesday, February 26, 2020 10:59:05 PM <br />Dear Orono Parks Commission, <br />I would like to express my support for the Orono Parks Board to partner with Long Lake Rowing Crew <br />in establishing a boat house on Summit Park property. <br />I am a part of the Long Lake Rowing Crew Masters’ (adult) program. When I was looking to join a <br />rowing team (having learned to row my last year of college and interested in learning more), I was <br />thrilled to find an opportunity in the western metro – Long Lake Rowing Crew (LLRC)! I love that <br />LLRC provides opportunities for youth and adults. As there are no rowing teams at high schools, <br />having this opportunity available for youth in the western suburbs is wonderful and saves teens and <br />parents precious time and resources since they do not have to go as far for the opportunity to row. I <br />am constantly in awe of how quickly the youth progress and the high skill level they achieve in a few <br />short years on the team! Having the adult program available is equally important. I think society <br />tends to focus on athletics for youth as well as friendships during your school years. However, <br />staying active and forming new and lasting relationships as an adult is equally important to the <br />health and well being of the community but it can be challenging and daunting. Long Lake Rowing <br />Crew has given me an avenue to stay active and form new relationships, leading to greater physical <br />and mental health! I love that the masters program includes a wide range of ages and abilities: from <br />just out of college to 70s, brand new rower to many many years of experience and everywhere in <br />between! Being part of LLRC for several years, I have greatly enjoyed seeing adults try rowing for the <br />first time and grow in their skills and passion for the sport! This program allows adults who want to <br />compete at a high level and those who want to learn the sport on a recreational level to have access <br />to the same excellent coaching and support. Everyone is welcomed and encouraged! The amount of <br />encouragement and support I feel from my teammates is incredible! This encouragement is not <br />limited to just rowing but transcends into other aspects of my life as well which goes to show the <br />depth of impact being a part of this team can have. I truly feel lucky to be a part of this community <br />and am grateful for the opportunity to use the space at Birch’s on the Lake. Having a permanent <br />home for LLRC at Summit Park would allow Long Lake Rowing Crew to continue providing these <br />amazing opportunities to youth and adults in the Long Lake & Orono greater community for years to <br />come. <br />Thank you for your time and consideration, <br />Sincerely,, <br />Laura Buggy <br />(Golden Valley resident)