POEM: Thank you, Dave Morse

September 4, 2026  |  By John Malter

Editor’s Note: After 25 years of running Dave’s Community Fitness, founder Dave Morse retired this summer and handed over the reins to gym regular Thomas Jacobs and spouse Bridget. The gym is currently closed for renovations this month with a reopening planned for early October. Longtime gym member John Malter penned and shares this tribute to Dave Morse.

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Thomas Jacobs takes over from Dave Morse at what is evolving into Waterbury Community Fitness. Courtesy photo

Thank you, Dave

It seems like only yesterday we were invited in

to try phys ed in Dave’s fancy new gym.  

Creatively thinking of ways to get buff, 

we groaned and we sweated through all of that stuff.

Some times were good and some times were bad.

A flood from Irene just made us quite sad.

But like a phoenix up you did rise 

and presented us with new challenges

and an occasional surprise. 

Now we are Dave’s Community Fitness, 

which rhymes with nothing of that I do witness.

We trusted your judgment and saw changes get made,

trainers and classes and challenges in spades.

Like all good journeys, there’s a beginning and an end.

You’ve helped many move forward on a healthier trend.

Thank you for caring and being our friend.

Be proud of your efforts; they weren’t for naught.

Now take some time for yourself; that’s our best thought.

~ John Malter, Waterbury