Editor, Gazette-Journal:

Wow, what a summer! We at Gloucester Parks, Recreation and Tourism have just finished our summer athletics. A cool June, a blistering hot July/August kept it interesting. But the one thing that stood out the most was our volunteers. They are the greatest.

The coaches and umpires in our youth softball/teeball/whiffleball leagues were terrific. They made it fun while teaching kids how to play ball. One of our softball umpires, Wesley Greene, told me how much fun he has had. He has been a PR&T volunteer for youth sports for 26 years. Wesley coached numerous teams and has been one of my main soccer and youth softball officials for a long time.

Wesley told me he is retiring from youth sports. He will still be active and you will see him at the farmers’ market on Saturdays. Wesley is one of those very special people. For 25 years he has given his time to help Parks and Recreation kids learn and enjoy sports. I hope to find someone to ref and umpire, but ...