With the 2017 calendar almost tucked away, the Manton Seniors are gearing up for an exciting year in 2018.
“That organization is like the Energizer Battery Bunny,” said a man closely connected with the state’s most successful independent senior citizens group. “None of those people seem to be running out of energy.”
That’s due largely in part to people in Johnston and surrounding communities whose residents are long-standing Manton members and to the tireless and ongoing efforts of Lorie DeVito.
At the recent Manton Seniors Christmas Party, for example, the talented musicians of the famed Calamari Brothers and other folks offered, “I’m amazed with Lorie’s dedication and enthusiasm that keeps this group going and going.”
Make that going for over the last 20 years; she’s served as president of the now 40-year-old plus senior citizens organization.
DeVito announced the Manton Seniors itinerary for the next three months, beginning with next week’s annual installation of officers for 2018 that will be held inside the nationally accredited Johnston Senior Center.
“It’s always a special time and ceremony,” DeVito, who hasn’t hinted whether or not she’ll be returning for yet another year, said. “Everyone … all our members and even this guests, look forward to the installation and Mayor [Joseph] Polisena always makes it special.”
While Polisena places high value on the “importance of the Manor Seniors,” he takes pride in the organization because of his special relationship with the late William “Bill” DeVito, Lorie’s husband, with whom the Mayor shared a special bond between the two families.
So, it’s onto 2018 for the Manton Seniors who’ll begin the new year with Tuesday’s Installation of Officers that will be held after the day’s lunch is served at 12 noon. DeVito said the menu is beef barley soup, meatloaf and mashed potato with gravy, broccoli and peaches.
There will be back-to-back monthly meetings on Feb. 6 and March 6, respectively at the JSC and DeVito announced the next Super Special is scheduled for Sunday, March 18 at famed Twelve Acres in Smithfield.
That’s when the Manton Seniors will crown their King and Queen at a dinner dance scheduled to start at 12 noon. Tickets are $30 per person and the day’s menu offers a choice of corned beef of scrod. There will be music by the Calamari’s and people who’d like tickets should call Sunshine Chairperson Irene Calicchia at 944-1954 or Rose Coppola at 943-9332.
Coppolla serves as corresponding secretary but also handles event tickets and is now accepting dues – that are only $10 per member – for 2018.
Comments
No comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here