To the Editor:
At the April Hilltown Seniors meeting, President Alyce Stevens Gibbs introduced guests Dennis Palow, Berne’s town supervisor, and Al Thiem, Berne Town Board member.

She explained Denis and Al were present to hear the members’ questions and suggestions regarding improving the Community Center/Senior Center. The speakers were warmly welcomed by the 58 attendees.

Supervisor Palow, recently back from training troops in Europe, received a standing ovation in honor of his military service. Members expressed the hope that future meetings would be attended by a town board member.

Supervisor Palow updated the group on Lamont Engineering’s proposed plans and the board’s efforts to get grant money and donations to aid with the funding. An extensive Q & A followed.

Some of the highlights included overall agreement to keep the existing stage, a need for more tables and chairs, an improved sound system, no reduction of meeting space, a need for an Americans with Disabilities Act-certified toilet and both bathrooms to be gender neutral.

Board Member Thiem suggested a new heating system and improved air-quality flow, new kitchen cabinets, repainting, new windows, sanding and polishing the floors, improving the parking lot, and beautification around the building. Al’s suggestions were well received.

Supervisor Palow shared information about some of the other things that are currently available to the seniors at the Town of Berne Community & Senior Services Center, located at 1360 Helderberg Trail in Berne, including lunch served at 11:30 a.m on Tuesdays and Fridays. Menus available.

For example, on Friday, April 26: barbecued pork, baked fish, or a roast-beef and cheese sandwich or Tuesday, April 30: sloppy Joe or baked fish. Suggested donation: $3. The meals are provided by Life Path. for more information or to make reservations, call 518-465-3322.

The Berne town services also provides weekly bus service for shopping in partnership with CDTA and Albany County. Our town driver is Deb Scolz. For information, location, or to reserve a spot, call 518-437-5161.

For answers to additional questions, email supervisor@ berneny.org or call Dennis at the town hall. He invites all of us to attend the monthly town board meetings.

I encourage other Hilltown seniors to join our club! Annual dues are just $5 and will be collected at the Saturday, May 11, meeting from 10 to about 11 a.m. Great people, great lunches, and great trips! Bring a dish to share!

Marie Lounsbury

Berne