Austine Disc Golf

[Patrick Harris]

It is heartbreaking for me to get the news last Monday afternoon from my employer that I'm being laid off as of this Friday (9/12/14).

http://www.reformer.com/News/ci_26477222/VCDHH-will-close

It was shocking for me and everyone else. I had to laid off my own (8) staff from three programs that I supervised as well as informing contracted clients that they are out of support for a while until their cases are transfer to other agencies that can handle it. I had to clear out my large office, my mini Pro Shop, and removing bunch of Deaf tournament stamped discs from the walls. What a depressing week!!

I might be alright and hanging there but it is a BIG loss to the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Vermonters.

Right now, the entire 174 acres property is being turned over to the State of Vermont. The Department of Justice will appoint a Trustee to come down and to handle paying off the debts. There are some other businesses/organizations/programs still there but not related to VCDHH.

I am hoping to meet the Trustee and ask him/her to allow the Austine Disc Golf course to remain on the property for the public to use. If its allowed but if they cannot mow grasses, then its either get volunteers to mow grass or move all three open field baskets into the woods. It will become all wooded course. There are over 50 acres in the woods that can be used to make 18-27 holes layouts.

I could use your support to voice your support to keep Austine course open and maintain for the public.

Which is best way to get petitions?

There are couple of online petitions but I'm not sure which one is best to get the job done.

I'm just wanted to be prepare to respond to the Trustee when the time comes.

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/AustineDiscGolf

[Matt DeAngelis]

Good luck Pat and sorry to see this news.