The JJ Dushane Memorial fund was established to honor our son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin and friend who tragically lost his life this past January. JJ was a beautiful and caring young man who touched the lives of many as attested by the more than 1,400 people who paid their last respects to him. He played and excelled in local sports as a youngster all the way through his varsity career at Easthampton High School. Although he excelled at soccer, baseball and football (his blocked punt which resulted in a touchdown sealed the win for Easthampton's first Super Bowl victory in 2005), his passion was basketball. He believed in mentoring younger players and young children. He always knew how to “Lighten Up” people, how to make them laugh and how to enjoy life no matter what the situation was.

The family and fiends of JJ Dushane are trying to raise money to build a memorial in his name and to create an atmosphere where the community, especially the kids, can gather and play basketball. On the reverse side of this letter is a copy of a plan to build an additional basketball court and revamp an existing court at the entrance to Daley Field. JJ spent a lot of his time playing basketball there and we know in our hearts he would want us to complete this project. We have the support of our City Officials, the Parks and Recreation Department, the Easthampton Basketball Association, Easthampton High School Athletics and of course our Family and Friends.

Our goal is to raise $72,500.00 by January 1st and to complete construction by the spring of 2009. Although many supporters are organizing events for the cause, our biggest fundraiser is the JJ Dushane Memorial Golf Tournament. Please review the attached sponsorship sheet and pelase consider being a part of this community event. On behalf of JJ's Family and the JJ Dushane Memorial Golf Tournament Committee, I thank you for your support.

Sincerely,
Joesph J. Dushane, Sr.

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