Community reacts to Center’s opening last weekend

It was a ceremony unlike one that Johnstonians had ever seen before.

It was a dynamic dedication upwards of 1,000 people witnessed that was so impressive it left some people speechless, and event that featured accolades and words of praise that are still being talked about. The topic of conversation is, and will probably be during the coming weeks, “Johnston’s Jewel” – the state-of-the-art Indoor Recreation Center that Mayor Joseph Polisena proudly notes “Didn’t cost the taxpayers of our great town a dime.”

So, because the excitement and enthusiasm still pouring out from Saturday’s Official Opening Ceremony-Grand Opening, the Sun Rise today offers what a number of town leaders are saying about The Johnston Indoor Recreation Center that sits at 1741 Atwood Ave.

Below is a sampling.

Richard S. Tamburini, Johnston Police Chief: “At the opening ceremony, first time visitors were dazzled by its sheer size. I believe this was Mayor Polisena’s personal best as he continues to set a winning tone for our town.”

Daniel O. Parrillo, Johnston Deputy Police Chief: “I believe the new recreation center is a great opportunity for our youth to have a place to build relationships that will last for many years to come.”

Timothy McLaughlin, Johnston Fire Chief: “Saturday was a great day. The new sports complex is a fantastic place, a state of the art facility the youth of Johnston and the entire state will use. Mayor Polisena spares no expense when it comes to the youth of the town like we have in the football complex and now this beautiful place for all to enjoy for years to come.”

Robert V. Russo, Town Councilman: “Once again it with great pride to be able to take part in building this beautiful facility. We had members of the federal, state and local level as well as citizens from all over the state looking at our indoor recreation complex. Having grown up in Johnston and spend half my adult life being a part of local government, there is no better feeling than being able to see growth in the community. The facilities centralized location will bring excitement and energy to Johnston.”

Richard J. DelFino III, Town Councilman: “Unveiling this new facility was another great day in our town. I commend the Mayor for all his hard work on this project and my colleagues in government for understanding the importance of recreation in our community. I grew up playing and coaching youth sports in town and understand the important role sports play in a family’s life. I look forward to coaching my son here for years to come.”

Robert J. Civetti, Town Councilman: “The Mayor, building committee, members of the Town Council did an excellent job and built a facility that the entire town should be proud of. If is my hope that all Johnston residents will enjoy this facility and during the winter months residents that usually walk around Johnston War Memorial Park can come indoors to get their daily exercise. This facility should be available to all residents of Johnston, young and old. I came on the Council after the plan was in motion, however, I’m thrilled to be part of such a monumental showplace that will be used for a number of sports and activities.”

Anthony A. Verardo, Town Council President: “This was an opportunity to share in another success and achievement for our town. The new recreation center represent the continuous effort of Mayor Polisena, Town Council, School Committee and all our elected officials to move the town forward. I look forward to see the center put to use for all town residents, especially our children.”

David J. Santilli, Town Councilman: “I was so impressed with our indoor recreation center. This state of the art facility will be enjoyed by all Johnston residents for generations to come, not only encouraging them to lie in a healthy lifestyle but bringing families together year round to enjoy their favorite sports.”

Richard J. DelFino Jr., Municipal Court Administrator: “The construction of one of the finest indoor athletic complexes in the state at no expense to the taxpayer is another example of why this team of elected officials, led by Mayor Polisena, is a special act of outstanding public service and efficiency in government at its very best.”

Deborah Fellela, State Representative: “I think we are lucky in Johnston to have this wonderful facility. It is truly such a benefit for our children and families. This is definitely a win-win for the town!”

Stephen Ucci, State Representative: “My daughter, Gianna, is so excited to play basketball I the new recreation center. This is just another example of the progress we can achieve when we all work together for a common purpose. My family wishes to thank Mayor Polisena, the Town Council, Recreation Department and all those worked on this wonderful facility.

Mike Montecalvo, WPRI-TV News Anchor: “My two daughters had the opportunity to play a variety of sports in Johnston, thanks to so many dedicated coaches. It’s heartening to see future generations will be able to utilize this beautiful recreation center.”

Arnie Vecchione, DPW Director: “I thought the truly special moment was witnessing the emotional moment with Dan Mazzulla, a great department head and dear friend. I’m sure he was thinking of his late dad at that time and how far the rec department has come. For me, just being able to participate in a project like this is a proud moment and to use my tile expertise and to create the sports design is credit to the Galli family who taught me the traded. Being a department head under Mayor Polisena and realizing the caring and kindness this community has for each other makes this all so rewarding. In speaking with so many residents Saturday, they praised the facility and this town’s leadership under the Mayor. He deserves the credit, it was his vision.”

Ben Nascenzi, Johnston Building Inspector: “If it wasn’t for Mayor Polisena, this project would have never become reality. He worked with everyone every day, and believe me, we had many, many obstacles to overcome. There was water, electricity, utilities, etc. I must say that the Planning Committee was super; a very good group that worked together all the way. Please remember, this project was built in eight months of mostly winter weather. I’ve never seen a facility this large built so fast and exactly up to all the codes. Although it didn’t cost the taxpayers any money, the Mayor scrutinized every penny that was spent. Everybody gave one hundred percent, like out DPW Director Arnie (Vecchione). He’s the best and his tile work is proof. The result: we now have the best indoor sports complex anywhere.”