To the editor:

As a citizen of Lawrence and a parent of four, I would like to applaud this city’s variety of available activities conducive to good physical health. In a time when everyone is inundated with information regarding the obesity epidemic, and when it is unsafe for children to venture too far from their own backyards to play, Lawrence provides many opportunities to address these issues.

However, I feel it is necessary to call attention to an activity facing threat of termination. Robinson Gym, at Kansas University, has been home to the Kansas School of Gymnastics, under Lawrence Parks and Recreation, for over 20 years. In August, Robinson will be closing its doors to this program. Students who have participated for recreational purposes and/or as competitive team members (according to LPR, that number was 1,300 last year) will no longer be able to hone their gymnastic skills here. Students who travel from as far as Topeka and Kansas City to attend this program will have to look elsewhere as well.

Perhaps I’m somewhat biased in my concern over this impending loss, as two of my children are currently benefiting from this worthwhile program. If it weren’t for the fact that there are such highly qualified and caring instructors — positive role models for the students — I’d think twice before braving the parking hassle Robinson presents on a daily basis. I’ve often wondered if attendance would be even higher if the location were more accessible. Regardless, the fact that this program has been around for so long and utilized by so many proves that it is worth keeping.

Amy Laytimi,

Lawrence