Although I reside in Easthampton, I am a member of the Northampton Senior Center.
Even before becoming a member, I was involved with many things at this center. My parents have volunteered there for several years. After my father’s passing, my mom started volunteering even more hours.
That being said, I am very disheartened with the recent situation at the center (“Senior Center shakeup,” April 14-15). Passing over once again on Heather Cahillane as the director is just plain wrong. She has proven her ability time and time again. She has filled in twice for the director’s position and has done an outstanding job. She gets to know the seniors who frequent the center, as well as the volunteers.
As far as saying that her resignation was sudden, she gave two weeks notice, which is proper etiquette. What choice did she have? Her dedication and commitment to the center had been neglected for the second time.
Please Mayor David Narkewicz and City Council members — you need to listen to the seniors and staff of this great center. They have spoken to what is absolutely the right thing to do. Heather Cahillane should be the new director of the Northampton Senior Center.
If you are not going to listen to the seniors, then I would have to question why is this called the senior center? Our seniors deserve respect. They lose enough as they age: walking, driving, energy, etc. Don’t take their voice, too.
Lynda Broadhurst
Easthampton