At 51, thinking positive
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EASTHAMPTON - David Jaffe sees a negative and divisive political climate in the United States, and it bothers him.
So the Terrace View resident, who turned 51 last week, wanted to do something positive to celebrate his birthday. Something aimed at making people change their thinking, even if ever so slightly.
"I'm trying to do something more affirming," Jaffe said.
To be precise, the clinical social worker who works with youths in the court system, wanted to do 51 good deeds. So he set off last week to do just that.
"I feel like on this day I was given life, so I should give something back," Jaffe told curious pedestrians and others that crossed his path last one rainy and icy day last week.
Jaffe walked up Union Street, giving out small gift bags containing chocolates and ceramic magnets that say "Imagine." He paid for laundry. In Northampton, he paid for parking and gave money to homeless people on the street.
After a discussion about "paying it forward" with Manhan Cafe owner Doug Hurteau on Union Street, Jaffe left a $20 bill to pay for coffee for the next several customers.
Cookies and more
Jaffe paid for a coffee and a bagel for Brittany Redfern at Dunkin' Donuts.
"I think it's great what he's doing," Redfern said.
Heather Auger was walking her dachshund, Bella, in front of the Council on Aging. Jaffe handed her a gift bag. Al Garcia got one, too.
"Congratulations," Garcia told Jaffe. "Beautiful."
Amanda Colpack was holding a full shopping basket at Big E's. Jaffe gave her a bag.
Crossing guard Dolores Cooley also struck up a conversation about giving with Jaffe. She said makes Christmas and Easter baskets for some of the young students she shepherds across the street.
"I like to do it," she said.
Jaffe stopped in at Child and Family Service on Union Street with a tin of cookies for the staff.
"I'm well aware of all the good work you guys do," Jaffe told a smiling Jennifer Brelsford.
The Council on Aging also got a tin of cookies.
"That's really nice," said Holly Handfield, who was at the receptionist's desk.
COA Director Linda Talbot emerged from her office and told Jaffe that she had read about his 50th birthday in the newspaper last year, when he had given $50 bills to the first 50 people to enter the Community Center food pantry for groceries on his 50th birthday.
"Now where's the treadmill to go with it?" Talbot joked. The treadmills in the center's workout room are apparently on the fritz.
Jaffe said he'll be thinking soon about how to celebrate 52.
Matt Pilon can be reached at mpilon@gazettenet.com.
