As published in the Southington Citizen, July 20, 2012
A new and untravelled road is ahead for the Senior Citizens Commission in Southington. Will a positive and cooperative approach take us to a commonly shared destination?
The Senior Citizens Commission met on Tuesday, July 12th for the first time as an advisory body, following the Town Council’s unanimous approval of changes in the governing ordinance. The Commission now includes a seat for at least one member of the Calendar House Membership Association, either its president or another member named by him. Association president, Peter Freeman, nominated C. Mark White, vice president of the membership association.
White was appointed by Town Council Chairman John Dobbins at the July 9th council meeting. The council also unanimously approved that the executive director of Calendar House, Bob Verderame, would now report directly to Town Manager, Garry Brumack and that the senior commission would now be an advisory group. In a separate development, in a letter to town officials, Leonard Marcheselle tendered his resignation from the commission. Details were not disclosed in the commission’s announcement other than the suggestion that Marcheselle’s action was for personal reasons.
Brumback, Verderame and two staff members of Calendar House joined the commission meeting with a representation of senior citizens in the audience. In contrast to recent meetings, the proceedings went relatively smoothly. The sense of cooperation in the transition and civil and positive discourse were evident along with an impression that had signs of guarded optimism in the hope of leaving personalities, controversies and any lingering disagreements in the past.
Brumback’s comments opened the door to a positive spirit of cooperation between the advisory commission, the membership association, the Calendar House staff and the senior citizens “who are our customers.” He spoke of the importance of planning and preparing for future waves of the growing “boomer generation”, steadily aging into the ranks of seniors. Our focus has to be on what we need to do to provide the services that meet the needs and expectations of all seniors in the most effective manner. Brumback proposed development of a five-year plan and that it is equally important to plan what it will take to achieve the plan and how to accomplish it.
A broader insight into this first meeting of the newly organized senior commission might be garnered from the after-meeting thoughts of participants that follow.
White: “The ordinance change has enabled a significant and positive change in direction of the Senior Citizen’s Commission. (The) meeting showed the genesis of a forward looking group focused on enhancing the facilities, services and infrastructure of the Calendar House jewel in Southington’s crown. The committee clearly developed unity and sense of purpose )in) the course of the meeting which generated approval from the members of the public present.”
Sandra Micalizzi: “It is an honor to serve the seniors of the Town of Southington on the Senior Commission. A collaborative team effort enriches the lives of all involved.”
Lynn Maschi: “I was encouraged by this evening's meeting. I see it as moving forward. I’m glad Mr. Brumback attended and all were able to hear from him personally, his perspective on how we will collaborate and work together. I was also glad to see (senior) members attend. Unfortunately, I did not have the opportunity to introduce myself to them personally post meeting. I believe we all have the same common goal, to benefit not only the seniors/members but our town as a whole. Change and transition is rarely, if ever, easily done. I think with time, communication, patience and our common goal always as our destination it will be accomplished. I look forward to our next meeting in September.”
Cliff Snow, Jr., a director and past president of the C.H. Association Board and member for close to 20 years said: “I was pleased with the change in attitude of some of the Commissioners, which was constructive, rather than controversial. If a spirit of cooperation and communication can be established between our two groups, under *Brumback), then I see a positive future for Calendar House and it's senior members. This should be the goal of all."
CHMA board president and manager of the Computer Learning Center, Peter Freeman, said: “The launch of the new role of the Senior Citizens Commission was positive and uplifting. The commission is looking to the future, a long-term five year plan, a new set of by-laws, and a positive outlook to working closely with the association, staff, and the town. Mark White, representing the membership, will be a strong addition to the Commission. I am excited with the new direction the commission is taking with nothing but strong advice being given by this body.”
Bob Verderame, who has been executive director of Calendar House for decades, said: “I'm looking forward to a smooth transition with everybody on the scene on the same page with the Town Manager's approach. I’m excited about his new approaches and directions. My staff and I are ready to get to work with him and his staff, keeping communications open with the new advisory commission and the seniors of Calendar House.”
As to the Calendar House monthly newsletter, new opportunities are being explored by the volunteer publicity committee with the hope of presenting viable alternatives to the current monthly newsletter.
The next Senior Commission meeting in September will be held at 3:00 pm to enable as many of the town’s seniors who wish to attend to do so.
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