MANVILLE: Recreation director defended for his work and caring

To the editor:
   I am writing in response to the article, “Embarrassed Recreation Director Resigns.”
   Mr. Richard Armstrong has nothing to be embarrassed about. As our recreation director, we couldn’t have asked for more. Saying what he did for our “small town” is an understatement. You could have compared Mr. Armstrong to any other town, big or small, and he still would have been a standout. His dedication to our children has been phenomenal to say the least.
   As most people know, I have a child with autism. Kyle has grown socially since being able to participate in the town’s recreation programs with the “regular” kids. When Kyle was five, his developmental pediatrician suggested I try to put Kyle into some kind of recreation program with neuro-typical children. I went to Mr. Armstrong asking if it would be okay for Kyle to participate in his programs. Many towns “suggest” to Special Needs Parents to put their kids in Challenger Leagues instead. Not only did Rich say it was okay, he took Kyle and me under his wing and made sure that Kyle had only the best experience in his programs. He even let me keep Kyle in the instructional programs even though it wasn’t Kyle’s age level but appropriate for Kyle’s skill level.
   The one thing that made me proud to be a resident of Manville was how our Recreation Department stood behind my son despite his disability. Now, I’m sad to say but I have nothing left. My taxes continue to rise as my property’s value continues to go down. My house was just put into a “Special Hazard Area,” which raised my flood and homeowners’ insurance while bringing its value down. My son is not able to attend Manville Public Schools since they have no program for him. This year my son would be attending Roosevelt School, which is right across the street from my home. Instead I put him in a school vehicle, which transports him to Triangle School in Hillsborough.
   With all that said, thank you, Mr. Armstrong, for all you have done for my family and our community.
Patricia Barnish
(aka King Kyle’s Mom)
Manville