A deserving trophy

Thank you to Smith's Trophies. 1993 is my first memory of meeting Joe and Betty Smith back when my eldest son Sam was playing soccer, then hockey in elementary and middle school. I was always the "trophy" mom and each season I was challenged to get the tallest, best and coolest trophy that was available, which wasn't hard once I found Smith's Trophies.

Today I am writing this to thank them not only for the many years/seasons supply of trophies for all three of my children and their teams, but of their friendship, compassion and helpfulness in a time that has been extremely difficult for myself and my family.

In November 2005 when our son Sam unexpectedly passed away at the age of 18, we wanted to do something to honor him. With the many donations that were given to us in his name we started the Sam Manocchia Memorial Scholarship (Community Foundation for Oak Park, PO Box 291, Agoura, CA 91376-0291).

On Fri., June 13, Sam's scholarship was presented to two deserving 2008 Oak View High School graduates, Brooke Gerber and Andrew Levine. Previous recipients were 2007 Alex Feuer, and 2006 Erik Kamrath and Sean Garrison.

And for the past three years along with Sam' scholarship, each recipient has received a beautiful 81/2 by 12inch plaque personally made and donated by Smith's Trophies.

Our family is forever grateful to Joe and Betty for their kindness and support. Joyce Manocchia Agoura Hills