By Dee Longfellow
For The Elmhurst Independent
The Campbell Gym was filled with well-wishers admiring tabletop displays defined by decades. Each decade told another chapter in the life of a person who has touched other lives perhaps more than any other person in history – at least at York High School.
The man, the life, the legend – Joe Newton – the long-time York High School cross-country coach announced earlier this fall that this would be his last season in the position. It’s time to step down and move on.
Because of that decision, it was determined that Sunday, Nov. 6 should be a large reception to honor the man and his career.
Following the reception in the Campbell Gym, more than 500 people gathered in the Joe Newton Fieldhouse – his namesake — for a program to honor him and the years he gave to York, to the sport of cross-country running, and to The Long Green Line.
As guests entered, there was a stand with cards, envelopes and pens where people could write a sentiment and drop it in a box for Newton.
One section of the Fieldhouse was a sea of green shirts, where the athletes sat.
Mayor Steve Morley delivered a proclamation declaring Nov. 6 Joe Newton Day in the City of Elmhurst. A host of other speakers praised his good works as well.
Former House Speaker Lee Daniels told a funny story from the dais. It seems two young students were looking at the displays of Newton and his runners from the early years of the 1950s and 60s, when one said to the other, “Do you suppose any of these guys are still alive?”
“I tapped one of them on the shoulder,” Daniels said, “and said, ‘Yes we are!’”
Best wishes to Coach Joe Newton on a safe and happy retirement. We know you’ll still be around.
