To the Editor:

On Saturday, Jan. 20, we held our first basketball tournament/clash at Norwood-Norfolk Central School, of what we hope to be an annual event for Joanne's Gift of Love. It was an amazing time and turnout, and raised nearly $2500 for scholarships and charities.

We want to thank the Superintendent James Cruickshank, Athletic Directors Nate Plantz and Mark Wilson, Jason Gallant, who assisted with organizing, as well as the NNCS staff, teachers, coaches, officials, parents and grandparents for all their help and support.

Also, thank you to those who put together gift baskets, and to all the businesses who donated gift cards, merchandise, food and/or drinks. They are: Ron Page of Go Green Storage, Total Image, Little Italy, Whites Ace Hardware, Arby's, Today's Hair and Spa, Glaziers, Price Chopper, Kinney's, Ponderosa, T&R Wines, Bicknell's Paper Supply, Pepsi, Frito Lay, Chilly Delight, Rae & Rick Hitchman HB Rentals, North Country This Week, and Johnstons H2O. Without all your kindness and generosity, we would not be able to do what we do, in Joanne's memory.

Joanne's Gift of Love is a foundation established for Joanne Bigwarfe, who was the Norwood-Norfolk Elementary principal. Joanne was diagnosed with osteo-sarcoma and lost her fight three months later, at the age of 43 years old.

A dedicated mom, wife, teacher, sports enthusiast, and community supporter, Joanne's wish was to give back to the community she loved so much. That is what our goal is, to give back in her memory.

We give scholarship to two students at Norwood-Norfolk and Potsdam Central schools each year. We provide care bags for patients undergoing issues related to cancer, which are filled with items they may need on their journey and/or provide gift cards for travel and lodging. We give to Hospice, Neighborhood Center, the food pantry, have sponsored a child for 4-H, along with other things.

If you are interested in donating to this cause, we, along with those in need, would truly love your help and support. Joanne’s Gift of Love is a non-profit organization and all money stays within our community.

Again, we thank you all. Remember your kindness is an act of love.

Joanne's Gift of Love Foundation