Jonas Miller and Armbrook Village resident Ernie Fournier discovered they had an interest in cars in common during the Past Meets Present project.
Reminder Publishing photos by Amy Porter
WESTFIELD — At the completion of the second year of the “Past Meets Present” project, Westfield High School 10th graders who had teamed up with residents of Armbrook Village came to the assisted living community for a wrap-up and lunch with their new senior friends.
Armbrook Enriched Life Director Rebecca Fondakowski said the students and residents had met three times at Westfield High School to talk and answer questions. “The first time, they were nervous and anxious, but they became more comfortable,” she said.
Fondakowski said the oral history project, which is in its second year, helps the students gain a better understanding of the past. She said they were able to share and create books of their meetings, which would normally have been given out at the last meeting on June 17, but had been delayed at the printer.
“Recording history is important. It preserves memories, and helps to avoid repeating errors,” Fondadkowski said, thanking the residents and staff for their participation, especially with the early morning trips to the school. She then encouraged the school to continue the project into the future.
Students and residents were asked to share their thoughts on the experience.
Armbrook resident Dr. Frank Horrigan said he found it to be very enlightening and very enjoyable. He said his student partner was very focused and they had wonderful conversations. “Thank you so much, I really appreciated it,” he said.
Bruce and Dale Hoag, originally from Cummington, were paired with Matt Bussell and Mara Leen. “They found out what it’s like to be a hillbilly,” said Dale Hoag.
Jonas Miller and Ernie Fournier found they had an interest in cars in common. “We spoke a lot about cars, the Sputnik and space race, and highways going across the country,” said Jonas, adding that Fournier, who is from Northampton and went to Springfield Technical Community College, talked to him a lot about fiber optics. “It was fun,” he said.
Another pair that found they had a lot in common were Bea Szenda and Raeghan McGrath.
“It went really well. I was surprised how much Bea and I had in common. We’re both really big fans of Elvis,” said Reaghan, who plays the saxophone and said music is a big part of her life.
“She’s so versatile, she can do anything,” said Szenda. The two have arranged for Raeghan to bring a combo to play at Armbrook in the future.
Lori Loisell and Riley Markt found the differences in life now and then the most interesting.
“It was interesting. You don’t realize how the world has developed until you start talking to the young people, with all the changes in technology, space exploration and household items,” said Loisell.
Riley added, “It’s interesting to see how much has changed, and what we have now.”
Alexander Svantesson, who was paired with George and Nancy Webb, agreed. “You don’t realize how much times have changed, and all the experiences they’ve been through,” he said.
“I have not been unaware of the importance of intergenerational dialogue — it’s the natural way. Great project! They’re just starting on their part of the journey,” said Nancy Webb, who spent her career in nursing and human services.
After the conversation, the group moved into a dining hall for a last lunch together, where the students had created a thank you card dotted with candy, wishing everyone a happy summer.
Westfield High School social studies teacher Nicole Hamel said the project helps the students to gain skills in several areas. “The students were excited, and worked very hard,” she said. All participants will receive copies of their partnerships as soon as they’re available.
