The Joplin Globe
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Joplin Rotary clubs, through generous donations, will be building a ball field for children with disabilities.
The Will Norton Memorial Miracle Field will pay tribute to the young man who died in the May 22 tornado on his way home from the Joplin High School graduation. Norton, an aspiring filmmaker and member of the JHS Constitution Team, touched so many people during his short life. In our view, this tribute is a continuation of Norton’s zest for living and desire to help others.
And there is a need.
Joplin Rotary Task Force Chairwoman Jenny Hocker said there are 1,800 students with special needs in the Joplin, Webb City and Carl Junction school districts. That number rises to 4,500 students if Carthage and Miami, Okla., are included. We believe this type of ball field is sorely needed.
A big thanks to Keller Williams Realty International’s charity, KW Cares, for the $150,000 check that put the Daybreak Rotary and the Joplin Rotary clubs at the needed goal.
The next step is getting the approval of the Joplin City Council. The plan is to build the field at the Joplin Athletic Complex.
We offer our hearty endorsement of the project.
Well played, Rotarians, well played.
