School Committee, Superintendent receive special recognition

People who attended Monday nights Johnston School Committee meeting wondered what item number three on the nights agenda was all about.

After all, its not often that youth groups, especially those from the sports community, attend such meetings that deal with the educational aspects of Johnston Public Schools.

It was rather fitting, though, that Monday nights meeting which dealt with budget transfers, committee requests and acknowledgements, the superintendents report and requests was overflowing with people.

Upon completion of a closed door executive session, the public portion of the meeting began with back-to-back presentations and words of thanks from the Johnston Youth Football and Cheerleading organization.

After School Committee Chair Janice D. Mele welcomed Gary and Toni-Ann Salzillo, the husband and wife team that heads the 250 player-cheerleader program, stood in the center of the Nicholas A. Ferri Middle School Library armed with special awards.

This is in appreciation and recognition of the outstanding support you have given our organization, said Toni-Ann Salzillo, as she presented Mele with a plaque featuring all five Johnston School Committee members Mele, Robert LaFazia, Gena Bianco, Lauren Garzone and Joseph Rotella. Were here to say thank you for affording our football players and cheerleaders to call Mayor Joseph Polisena home.

Gary Salzillo, who owns and operates Northeast Auto Body at 775 Hartford Avenue, echoed those same sentiments while he presented am appreciation award to Johnston School Superintendent Dr. Bernard DiLullo.

This is a pleasant surprise and first, DiLullo said. The Johnston Youth Football and Cheerleaders program has been a huge success in our town. One only has to drive by the Polisena Complex on a Sunday during football season to witness the packed house watching our children play the game. Gary, his wife Toni-Ann and their team of adults have been very committed to the success of the program.

DiLullo added, They have given a remarkable amount of time to insure that our youth have the opportunity to play in a competitive league while they learn the skills of football and cheering. Its an honor for the school department to host the league. I know I speak for our school committee in thanks them for the recognition they give us her tonight.