The Future Of Edmond Town Hall

To the Editor:

Edmond Town Hall serves as a physical reminder of the commitment to community embodied by Mary Hawley. With the relocation of town offices to Fairfield Hills the question facing Edmond Town Hall Board of Managers is how the newly vacated space can serve the community while attracting sorely needed sources of income. I propose that we look toward the example established by our benefactress.

The theater and Alexandria Room offer the public an opportunity to enjoy the performing arts. Vacated offices could further nurture the cultural growth of our community by establishing a regional art cooperative. Serving as a self-governing body, the cooperative could: (1) establish a gallery for exhibition and sale of their work, (2) extend the opportunities and hours for art instruction offered by the Department of Continuing Education and Park and Recreation to hours not normally available due to school classroom use, and (3) provide financial support to the trust bequeathed by Mary Hawley in the form of rent. In addition, the art cooperative would serve to strengthen the local economy. Collectors will find room, board, entertainment, and more as they discover the amenities Newtown has to offer.

Once home to a small bowling alley in addition to the gymnasium, the need for a community to come together for recreation is also reflected in the design of Edmond Town Hall. At a time when virtual games introduce us to virtual friends, reestablishing a family/youth community center at ETH would provide games such as coin operated air hockey, foosball, and pool that encourage social interaction as well as fun. Surrounding towns, such as Litchfield, combine their membership fees with community service. Monetary fees cover the maintenance of equipment and offset utility costs while commitment to volunteering of time for chaperoning provides opportunities for youth nights and special events. In the spirit of establishing family interaction, the family/youth community center encourages adults to interact with rather than drop-off their children. Imagine playing a quick game of air hockey before the matinee on a rainy Saturday afternoon, or subtly teaching the finer points of geometry by shooting a game of pool. These are the simple pleasures of shared family time that become fond memories. Chaired by a member of the Board of Managers, an Edmond Town Hall Parent/Youth Board could be established to govern and maintain the center.

Many local organizations and schools call for youth to devote time to community service. Edmond Town Hall offers endless possibilities for our youth to learn the true meaning behind being a custodian of our heritage. From helping clean the theater after screenings of movies to shoveling snow in the winter, students can be of service to their home community throughout the year.

For years my family has attended movies, concerts, and social events at Edmond Town Hall, enjoying all that it has to offer. I would appreciate and be honored by the opportunity to serve our community on the Board of Managers and IPN member.

Respectfully,

Karen C. Pierce

IPN Candidate

Edmond Town Hall Board of Managers

10 Chestnut Hill Road, Sandy Hook                        October 21, 2009