Unlike other signature Michigan events like the Governor’s Conference on Tourism — perhaps more accurately labeled as a Mayors’ event — the Saline Senior Conference has come about under the aegis of only one mayor. [1,2]
This is significant to understanding the role and importance of such an offering to any community in 2019. At heart, it serves as a predictable, accountable touchstone for residents in of this population to “engage directly” with their city officials, Mayor Brian Marl explained to Saline Journal today. [3-5]
[Our] presentations are tailored to a senior audience, and we discuss issues that are timely and significant to our older residents. [It’s] ‘non political.’ Elected officials present, and provide legislative updates, but the event is carefully crafted to avoid any partisan overtones. The government panel often features individual who have not participate in previous years.
It is also so much more than that, he was quick to add.
Candidly, a cooking demonstration conducted by a local restaurant or gourmet chef is an absolute must.
From a broader, regional perspective, organizations such as Ann Arbor SPARK have emphasized that younger talent is increasingly attracted to communities based on quality of life offerings that support their larger needs and relationship interests. This includes support for the daily needs and opportunities for enrichment that support having their aging parents near and actively present. [6-8]
This has long been a part of Saline Senior Conference thinking for Mayor Marl.
From an economic perspective, businesses need to attracted and retain talent, and of course, they need customers. So, creating an open and inclusive community, one that welcomes the contributions of all individuals is an absolute necessity.
Further, our senior residents enrich our City in innumerable ways. Saline is stronger due to our large senior population and all the contribution they make in our community.
[Personally], I’m drawn to this population because of the profound and positive impact my grandparents had on my upbringing. Our seniors are a wealth of knowledge and perspective, many have vast and varied experiences, and a number serve in leadership positions in the greater Saline community. Many have supported me personally and offered advice and counsel.
No doubt, I am a better Mayor because of their influence.
This “personal” interest instructs financing for the event itself as well. The mayor has always paid for lunch. This year, he’s been able to expand on that with help in deferring costs for desert and breakfast through donations from Brecon Village and Linden Square. Moves such as this instill confidence that a =Mayors’ senior conference can be reliably anticipated in years to come. [9,10]
As to 2019, the Eighth Annual Senior Conference opens this Friday, June 21, at 8:30am and runs until 1:00pm. Participation is free and open to every senior regardless of residency. But facility capacity is limited, so interested persons are asked to contact the Saline Senior Center to RSVP beforehand. [11]
References
- Pure Michigan Governor’s Conference on Tourism (home page).
- “Seventh Annual Saline Mayor’s Senior Conference Brought Together Most Valuable Community Resources” Dell Deaton (June 22, 2018) Saline Journal.
- Brian Marl (Facebook Page).
- “Exclusive Interview With Brian D Marl, Candidate For Saline City Council In Washtenaw County Michigan” Dell Deaton (October 28, 2018) Saline Journal.
- “On April 13 the Mayor Announced Walk-in Office Hours: Here’s What Is in That for You” Dell Deaton (April 24, 2018) Saline Journal.
- Ann Arbor SPARK (home page).
- “It’s Important to Understand What Being a ‘Smart City’ Means to Saline, Part 2” Dell Deaton (April 16, 2018) Saline Journal.
- “Older people are an asset, not a drain” David Brindle (March 2, 2011) The Guardian.
- “Brecon Village” EHM Senior Solutions.
- “Linden Square Assisted Living Center” Heritage Senior Communities.
- Saline Senior Center (home page).
Telephone (734) 429-9274
