John Marino – Respect
When you meet John Marino for the first time, you immediately realize you’ve met a very special, gentle man with a reputation and a heart as big as the New York Yankees!
If you know John Marino, you know conversing about certain topics comes very easily to him, such as the Yankees, his daughter Gloria, or the status of the renovation of his home, the Tuttle Block on Center Street. All you have to do is get him started with one question.
When we sat down with John to ask if he’d allow us the honor of doing an article on him and his life at Tuttle Block, he was happy to indulge us. Thinking there was no time like the present, we simply asked, “So, what’s new John?” As if on cue and without a moment’s hesitation, he quickly presented a gorgeous, shiny blue and gold coin from his pocket, which he had securely tucked into a clear plastic protective sleeve. John said proudly “I’ve just received my 25 years clean & sober medallion! That’s kind of new and I’m really proud of that.” The folks within earshot in our office were deeply touched by John’s spontaneous announcement, and were about as proud as if he was a member of their own family sharing such good news.
Using just one word, John then summarized why he enjoys his home at Tuttle Block, “Respect.” When asked to elaborate, he continued, “The people here at the Housing Trust respect me. Everybody is so nice. The workers from VMS Construction that are doing the work on my building all respect me. I like that. It means a lot to me.” He went on recounting stories about how helpful Construction Superintendent Dave Lewis was to him in countless situations when John needed a hand or a small favor. “Dave was always there for me. I sure do miss him. He was like family. He has definitely earned his place in heaven.” And we couldn’t agree more.
John recalled moving to Rutland 26 years ago from Albany, NY to have a chance at a new start. He knew he needed to get himself clean and he knew he needed a new place to do it. He credits his three-week stay at Serenity House for laying the foundation for helping him get on the right track and taking control of his life, without dependencies on substances. He has made his home at two of our properties, 18 ½ Cottage Street and now Tuttle Block for the past 5 years.
John is very proud of his 19 year-old daughter Gloria, who just graduated high school with the Rutland Class of 2022. She is now working at The Pines in Rutland.
At 25 years being clean and sober, we can say John has truly earned his medal of honor!