Tag Archives for City of Pawtucket

Still getting the job done

Published in the Pawtucket Times on August 15, 2016

In 2010, when Michael Cassidy retired as Pawtucket’s Director of Planning & Redevelopment after working for the municipality for 40 years, he had no intentions of easing himself into full-time employment. While he was retiring to “retirement” he had every intention to remain active for the rest of his life. Cassidy instinctively knew that retirees, who stay active by playing sports, traveling or even volunteering, always seemed to live longer. His father was a good example of this belief, living to the ripe old age of 92. Before the nagenarian died he had worked part-time as realtor, also playing in an Golden Oldies softball league and umpiring three times a week.

Part-Time Job Gives Many Bennies

With Cassidy planning to retire at age 62 from the City of Pawtucket, he went to see PawSox President, Mike Tamburro, asking him, “Do you have a job for an old retired guy.”

Ultimately, he took the position as usher at the Pawtucket-based McCoy Stadium. He says, “the job keeps me on my feet four to five hours.” Each game he puts around 15,000 steps on his pedometer. But the job also allows him to interact with old friends and even gives him an opportunity to make new ones, too.

There are additional benefits of having a part-time job, besides just getting physically active and having an opportunity to mingle with people, says Cassidy. He now has more time to spend with his six grandchildren, travel with Jane-Ellen, his wife of 45 years, and to just putter around his home. Now he even serves as Chair of the Blackstone Valley National Heritage Corridor Organization, he says.

Like Cassidy, according to a new AARP released last Tuesday, older Americans are not choosing to retire, many are now seeking part-time jobs in their post retirement years, not full-time ones.

Work the New Retirement Activity

According to the findings in the 26 page AARP report, “AARP Post-Retirement Career Study,” work seems to be the “new retirement activity.” While many Americans state that they plan to retire between ages 65 and 70 (45 percent), the data indicates that the typical retirement may have changed. Thirty seven percent say they plan to work for pay in post retirement. Of these respondents, 73 percent desire a part-time job and almost half are looking to work in a new field (44 percent). Twenty three percent will stay in the same field, and 33 percent are undecided.

The researchers say that connecting with co-workers, interesting and challenging work, and the desire for a work-life balance are all stated as top reasons why work is enjoyable. Some are seeking to pursue their dream job or dream field in this next stage of life. Sports, hospitality, and education fields are frequently cited. Most are hoping that their new dream jobs will be part-time, flexible with work from home options, and allow time for travel and fun.

The findings also indicate the importance of job training for those who plan to work during their retirement years. Among those who plan to enter a new field, training is seen as even more crucial to succeeding on the job (46 percent vs. 36 percent among those staying in the same field).

Meanwhile, when asked about what they enjoyed most about their current career, most mentioned income, benefits, and the schedule/work-life balance.

According to the AARP survey, regardless of the field, respondents are hoping to work part-time (73 percent), with over half expecting to work for someone else (57 percent) vs. being a contractor (21 percent) or starting their own business (19 percent). Personal contacts and job listings are the primary avenues respondents say they use to find post-retirement work (49 percent and 43 percent, respectively). Professional networking is also a popular way people plan to find work, note the researchers.

When questioned about their dream job, many respondents talk about a profession, for others it may be a particular type of working lifestyle. Jobs in the sports, creative, hospitality and education fields are mentioned frequently by the respondents while those looking for lifestyle benefits seek flexibility, lucrative, opportunities to travel, and employment with a charitable aspect to it.

AARP’s efforts to look into how people spend time in their retirement years is the first survey of this kind and there are no comparative stats from previous years, says Kim Adler, AARP’s Work and Jobs Lead.

The findings suggest that there are major implications for employers, adds Adler. “Americans are living longer, healthier lives and we will see a continuation of the long term trend of working into retirement years. Nearly 19 percent of 65 and older workers are in the workplace and the percentages – as well as the actual numbers – are likely to continue to rise. This will give employers the opportunity to hire and retain experienced workers who look forward to the opportunities and challenges in the workplace,” she says.

According to Adler, “there are shortages of skilled workers in certain industries and many employers report difficulty filling jobs. For these jobs – and all others – employers and employees benefit from an intergenerational workforce that encourages mentoring and knowledge sharing.”

Great Wealth of Experience

“The survey gives us a better picture of what retirement looks like today and, likely, well into the future,” said AARP Rhode Island State Director Kathleen Connell. “But it also is a conversation starter about the value of older workers. Older Rhode Island workers represent a great wealth of experience and accomplishment at every level of the workforce.

“Employers should embrace the willingness of people to work part-time after 65 or 70 as a “golden’ opportunity, if you will. And this is especially true of startups, where wisdom is a critical success factor. Growing the Rhode Island economy might depend on synergies of young innovators guided by experienced leaders and managers.

Adds Charlie Fogarty, Director of the Rhode Island Division of Elderly Affairs, “Many older adults look at retirement as a transition period, and not a defined point in time in their lives.” He notes, “this population has a wealth of experience and knowledge that can be shared while working part-time, making for a more productive and richer work experience for all employees.”

“Our new research shows a fluid workplace, with many experienced workers looking for flexible part-time work in interesting and challenging positions to continue their careers,” said Kim Adler, AARP’s Work and Jobs lead. “The new website [AARP.org/Work] will help experienced workers control their careers and stay connected, competitive and current in the workplace,” Adler added.

This AARP survey, overseen by Gretchen Anderson, AARP Research, was fielded online from July 27 to Aug. 3, 2015 and conducted among adults age 50-64 who are currently employed full time. A total of number of 4,975 surveys were completed. The final data has been weighted to U.S. Census for analysis.

Regular Folks Give Sound Advice to Class of 2016 for Future Success

Published in Pawtucket Times on June 6, 2016

As previous years, high-profile commencement speakers are coming to Rhode Island’s Colleges and Universities selected to give to the robed 2016 graduates their unique practical tips as to how one can have a rewarding personal and professional career. As I mentioned last May in my weekly commentary, these widely-recognized speakers can quickly bring prestige to the educational institution but they oftentimes command big bucks for their brief appearance. . . .

Like last year this writer calls for choosing regular folks to give commencement speeches to graduating College seniors. Their practical tips, suggestions and “words of wisdom” are honed each and every day at work and through their personal intimate relationships with family and friends and by the challenges faced throughout their life’s journey.

The following advice from these Rhode Islanders can be especially helpful to those graduating to cope in a very complex and changing world.

Doug Allen, 53, Douglas, Massachusetts (formerly from Lincoln, Rhode Island.), owner of Lincoln Associates. “Look around at your fellow graduates. There is at least one person here that you never spoke to, nor socialized with, that will someday become extremely successful. And they, unfortunately, will remember how they were treated in high school. Don’t make this mistake again. Every person you come in contact with could be that person who changes your life. Make it a point to say a kind word to everyone. Otherwise, you will never know if the next Mark Zuckerberg sat beside you in math class your sophomore year.”

Richard Blockson, 61, Providence, former general manager of The Pawtucket Times and Woonsocket Call, who currently works in the financial service sector. “Striving to be a person of sound character is an admirable goal. It cannot be bought, given to you or taken away. It levels the playing field between privileged and underprivileged. It will help guide you through troubled waters and grant you a path of good decisions during your lifetime.”

Carol Conley, 60, Pawtucket, assistant to the executive director, Rhode Island Film Office, Rhode Island. “Be grateful. Be kind. Karma is a real thing. Give to others what you would like to receive and it will eventually come back to you. Wait for it; trust the universe’s timing. Challenge yourself. Conquer your fears. Never, ever give up.”

Michelle DePlante, 29, Cumberland, director of programs, Leadership Rhode Island, “Discover who you are and what strengths you bring to the table. Engage with people who seem the least like you and listen to them to understand, not simply to reply. Become comfortable with the uncomfortable – you’ll grow as a person, and life will never be boring. Get to know your neighbors and be accountable to your community.”

Diane Dufresne, 63, Pawtucket, director at Pawtucket Prevention Coalition, “Take the knowledge and experience of those who have mentored you and invested in you, those who have helped mold your life and use that to become the best version of yourself that you can be……use what you have gained and contribute to make society better……one day you will have the opportunity to mentor others and you will impact another person to do the same.”.

Paul C. Harden, 56, Newport, director of Transportation Technology at New England Institute of Technology, “As a college graduate take every opportunity to learn, consider new ideas and develop new skills. You do not have to go back to school and get another degree. Trying reading books, taking a free online course or finding a mentor who can give you sound counsel.”

Mike Lyons, 73, East Providence, corporate and community partnerships, Pawtucket Red Sox Baseball Club, “Henry David Thoreau is the author of one of my favorite quotes: To affect the quality of the day, that is the highest of the arts.’ College Graduates in particular have both the opportunity and responsibility that their education has afforded them to make each day matter.”

John Resnick, 52, Cranston, entrepreneur, “I have learned that your parents may try to live their lives through you and your career choice. Never give up your own dreams to follow the dreams and plans your parents may have for you. The only thing that you owe your parents is the promise that you continually pursue happiness throughout the course of your life.”

Wayne Rosenberg, 60, Providence, real estate broker and construction manager, “Most college degrees are not going to be your ticket to financial freedom. Your most important challenge you will face is finding meaningful work. You must realize that no one can do this for you but yourself. Take charge. If you cannot find employment consider becoming your own boss and employ yourself.”

Joyce Silvestri, 62, Seekonk, Massachusetts, former banquet director at Twelve Acres, “As you are entering upon your post-graduation experience, it is important to remember that as much as you are all vying for possible jobs or post graduate education, the competition will be even greater than you have experienced so far. Reflecting on what you have heard and seen in this election year, you would be wise to entertain this workplace or educational competition without losing sight of civility. That would be your true success.”

Jim Tiernan, 55, Hamilton, owner of 80 Fountain Street, LLC, a Pawtucket mill that houses artists and creative sector companies. “It is important for graduating seniors to realize that not many people know what they want to be when they ‘grow up.’ Don’t fret about making that perfect choice or worry that you don’t have a passion for your chosen field of education. You won’t always make perfect choices, but with a little thought and feedback from your friends and those older your choice will lead you in a positive direction. Wherever you land, learn from those around you with more experience and become as fully engaged in life as you possibly can. You only go around once.”

Rico Vota, 34, Cranston, communications & constituent affairs officer, City of Pawtucket. “You never know when the last time you talked to someone, is going to be the last time you talk to someone. Make every interaction you have with people count for something.”

And this writer, concludes with his favorite quote from the Roman poet Horace’s Odes. “Carpe Diem , Quam Minimum Credula Postero.” Translation: “Seize the day, put very little trust in tomorrow.”

Tourism Council Starts Intergenerational Trips

Published in the Pawtucket Times on April 8, 2002

A growing number of affluent and travel-savvy seniors are fueling the demand for grandparent-grandchildren travel. It’s becoming big business for the travel sector.

According to a recent issue of “Time” magazine, a survey performed by Zogby International for American Demographics found that last year about 20 percent of U.S. grandparents traveled with their grandchildren. Experts believe that this travel trend will continue especially with more than 77  million aging baby boomers who are taking on the role of grandparent. The popularity of seniors taking their young grandchildren on trips is also documented by the National Tourism Association (NTA). According to NTA, children’s tours ranked number 9 out of 50 for top national and international travel tours.

Bonding and getting close to their grandchildren are just a few of the benefits of this trend in fueling the demand for intergenerational travel.  Deepening of the bonds  between generations can occur without the frustrations of planning the details of a trip.

Recognizing this increasing popular travel trend, The Blackstone Valley Tourism Council (BVTC) is finalizing the travel itinerary for four affordable, intergenerational trips. The new series, “Bring Your Grandparents to the Blackstone Valley,” will feature the valley’s historic sites, museums and the Blackstone River.  Additionally, these day trips will also feature fun destinations such as the zoos, waterslides, nature areas and orchards in the valley.

The first day trip, scheduled for April 17, is planned to coincide with school vacations, notes Mary Harrington, BVTC’s Group Tour Manager. With a lot of parents working during school vacations, grandparents can easily step in to take  care of the youngsters, she says.

On this day trip, grandparents and grandchildren from kindergarten age up to 12 years of age, can explore the history and culture of the Blackstone Valley Corridor by watching an award film, “Hidden in the Blackston Valley,” in a theater in the City’s Visitor Center.  The 20-minute film tells the story of the rise and decline of the  textile industry and the role it played in setting the American Industrial Revolution in motion.

Meanwhile, trip organizers are hopeful that both generations learn more about ecology along the 46-mile Blackstone River by scheduling an hour-long riverboat ride on the Explorer. During the ride, an ecologist will perform water quality tests. Youngsters will also find out more about the plant and fish and animal species that live in and along the riverbanks and even learn how to help clean up the river.

Also, included in this affordable travel package is a child-friendly lunch were hot dogs, hamburgers, grilled  cheese sandwiches and French fries will be served at Pawtucket’s Modern Diner. The custom-built Sterling Steamliner is recognized as the first diner to be placed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Finally, a child-oriented tour of Slater mill, the birthplace of the American Industrial Revolution, is planned. Both young and old can see a replica of an early 19th century waterwheel turning real machinery and see flax spun into linen. They will even learn more about child labor laws and how the 19th century industrial revolution changed virtually every aspect of daily life. After the tour both grandparent and grandchildren, supervised by a Slater Mill educator, can work together on a traditional fiber arts craft project.

“We came up with this trip package that takes care of all the details,” Harrington said. “It is not always for grandparents to figure out what to do.”

With many seniors living on a fixed income, the costs of each day trips will be kept affordable and interesting, Harrington says. She says that the price tag for a day trip is only $22, covering the registration of both the grandparent and their youngest charge. However, for the first day trip, the ecology program on the Explorer will cost an additional $6 per person.

For details, call Mary Harrington at the Blackstone Valley Tourism Council at 401-724-2200.  Deadline for registration is Monday, April 15.