Lawmakers make visit to senior center

Posted

“We have several familiar faces with us today,” Mayor Joseph Polisena told one of the largest luncheon crowds in recent Johnston Senior Center memory last Thursday. “Today, we extend a warm welcome to two of our greatest friends.”

Polisena then welcomed U.S. Rep. James Langevin and U.S. Sen. Jack Reed, and told an attentive audience of how important both men have been to the center – most notably in securing federal funds for a new bus.

“I was surprised when the bus pulled into our Town Hall parking lot and someone suggested I drive the new vehicle,” Polisena said. “So I did, but I couldn’t help but think how important both these men have been to our town during their years in Washington. They helped get the necessary funding to purchase our new bus.”

Polisena also wanted it known that Langevin and Reed “are frequent visitors here in town and our beautiful Johnston Senior Center. This is typical of what the congressman and senior senator continue to do for each and every Rhode Island resident.”

Langevin and Reed were also accompanied by senior staffers, who enjoyed the camaraderie with luncheon goers who filled almost every available seat inside the spacious room.

“Our seniors really love it when Congressman Langevin and Sen. Reed come here,” Polisena told media members. “It gives our people a chance to speak to them about such important issues such as Medicare and other senior citizen-related topics.”

While Langevin and Reed made their way around the center’s main dining and event area talking to couples like Jan and Richard Silvestri and Doris Graham, they each issued a special “happy birthday” to Orlando Ricci, the center’s oldest member who’ll turn 101 this week.

“What’s your secret?” Reed asked Ricci, who will soon be featured in a book about the nation’s top 100 centenarians.

Ricci replied with a smile: “If I told you, I wouldn’t have a secret!”

State Rep. John Carnevale also took part in the gathering.

“Johnston is like a second home to me,” Langevin told those on hand. “There’s always something good going on in Johnston. That’s why we like coming here.”

“This is typical of what Jim does. He’s always doing and working for you, all the people,” Reed said of his fellow lawmaker. “We love coming here to this great facility. You’ve got a great mayor and great town that keeps moving forward.”

Comments

No comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here