The senseless destruction of the Maidstone Park ball field last week caused outrage and disbelief. But it also should serve as a reminder of how important organized youth baseball and softball are in this community, and the admirable commitment of the adult coaches who make it all possible.

Jacqueline Ann Meacham Lattimer, who was known as Jackie, died at the age of 61 on April 24 while camping, a favorite pursuit, near Carlisle, Pa. Her death was attributed to a heart attack.

Anne Fritts Stewart of Springs and Manhattan died at Mount Sinai Hospital on the Upper East Side on May 5, of complications following abdominal surgery. She was 80 and had been ill for one day, her family said.