Originally published May 23rd 2024
“Persistence is what makes the impossible possible, the possible likely, and the likely definite.”
— Robert Half
In my column last week, I talked about Salisbury’s Colonial-style form of government and how open Town Meeting plays a pivotal role in governance.
Every registered voter has the opportunity to cast a vote on matters such as budget, zoning and bylaws. Last week, Salisbury held our annual town election, which determines our selectmen, school board members and next year, the position of town moderator will be contested.
This year’s election was particularly interesting. After four unsuccessful bids, Gil Medeiros was trying to finally secure a seat on the Board of Selectmen. Gil’s journey has seen its share of both resounding and narrow defeats. Would his persistence pay off this time? Was there opportunity in the wake of Chuck Takesian’s unexpected departure from the board due to a health scare?
Charming Chuck had been a seminal figure in local politics, involved since the early ‘90s in transforming Salisbury’s governance from a three-member board with considerable power to a more distributed five-member executive board, including a town manager. This reorganization fostered a more balanced and protective structure for the town.
Susan Pawlisheck, former chair of the Zoning Board of Appeals, a key figure in the community and one of the first to encourage my own civic engagement, also vied for Chuck’s vacated seat. Our paths crossed memorably years ago at Capri, the classy Italian beach establishment reminiscent of “Cheers.”
As my wife, Nina, and I enjoyed dinner with friends Lance Wisniewski and his elegant wife, Donna Johnson, served by the legendary bartender C.J. Penniman, Susan and her husband, Mike, joined us for a discussion on the upcoming new library. That evening not only marked the beginning of my deeper desire for involvement in the town, but also a personal transition from simply residing in Salisbury to truly living in it. I owe much of my community involvement to that fortuitous meeting, and the encouragement of Susan.
Running for re-election was Donna Abdulla, whom I was introduced to by Fred Knowles, Salisbury’s clever longtime Memorial Day parade organizer, and a former selectman. Fred recruited me to take over as the Salisbury Santa, and Donna approved me as his replacement.
During another encounter after my heart transplant in 2020, Donna’s genuine concern for my well-being deepened my affection for her. It was a moment of real connection, making her feel more like family than a town leader. Her caring concern is her attraction, Donna is Salisbury’s sweet aunt, you feel her love when you talk to her, and she’s not afraid to correct you when you are wrong.
Donna’s deep roots and extensive support network in Salisbury shone through as she emerged as the front runner. Meanwhile, Gil demonstrated his leadership by consistently aligning with citizens on their stance on contentious projects, earning him considerable trust among voters. Susan, known for her thoughtful approach to potential improvements in Salisbury, brought a sophisticated perspective to the race.
Among Susan’s supporters was a notable group that included her campaign manager, Dianne Masiello, a Salisbury power couple Cap and Jane Puritan, and of course, Monique Greilich, a fierce advocate for female leadership and a significant influence in my own life. Her mentorship has profoundly shaped my approach to writing. She decided on Election Day to nickname me a peacock followed by her loud cackle. Monique never lets me get away with anything but I can’t help but love her.
This year, on May 14, we gathered at the Hilton Senior Center – voters, supporters, and the candidates. We shared Nick’s Pizza and laughter, we cast our votes, we talked, we joked and listened to music. It was like a tailgate party for a Patriots game. When the results were announced, it was no surprise that Donna topped the ticket, but it was Gil who had finally overcome his previous setbacks, winning the second seat by a few hundred votes over Susan.
Gil and I embraced as I relayed the results, celebrating outside the senior center. The joy was finally realized for Gil – the law of persistence prevailed.
Delayed gratification made the victory even sweeter. Watching Gil get sworn in next to Donna, alongside their families, including Jolene Hollis, Gil’s girlfriend, and Fred Abdulla, Donna’s husband, was the cherry on top. Susan would have also made a great selectman, I’m sure she will be back.
Congratulations to all the candidates on their hard-fought campaigns. The journey was tough, but the passion and dedication they bring to Salisbury make it a better place to live. They all truly love where they live.
Salisbury resident C.J. Fitzwater is a curious traveler, perpetually on the lookout for fresh frontiers. With each journey, he blends historical threads into his stories. Email him at: cfitzwater@ymail.com.
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