To the Editor:

I join others who have written and the ones who have their own thoughts of the Newtown Senior Center director Marilyn Place’s retirement.

The saying “everyone can be replaced” is simply not true in the case of Marilyn Place.

She was the very core of the center and for the seniors who went there for programs, crafts, lunch bunch, road trips, or a friendly chat with Marilyn and others who were there.

On Fridays, I’m sure Marilyn didn’t take her thoughts on the center and put them on the desk to pick them up on Monday morning to do her “job.” Newtown had a director who was on the “job” 24-7, thinking of activities and programs to keep the center running, for almost 30 years.

To put the time and effort into a place that has your heart — retire before 65 and almost 30 years — Marilyn was always a lady who had everyone’s interest at heart. No, Marilyn can’t be replaced.

It may go on; however, there won’t be another Marilyn, even though there are many different interests and personalities. She managed them all.

Newtown, I’m so sorry for our loss.

Betty Presnell

1D Nunnawauk Meadows, Newtown         December 30, 2019