Johnston's first responders treated to lunch at The Bridge

Sometime around high noon last Friday, Maryann Grace walked outside The Bridge at Cherry Hill onto the patio and issued her usual friendly greeting asking: “How’s everything gentlemen?”

“We’ve got plenty of food and please enjoy yourselves!”

Grace’s warm welcome was also the prelude to an event that has become a trademark and tradition at the award-winning retirement center-assisted living facility: a First Responders Cookout-Luncheon.

The Century Park Associates property, located off Cherry Hill Road in Johnston, hosts similar events several times each year. They issue invitations to members of the Johnston Police Department and Johnston Fire Department to join the staff and residents for a smorgasbord-like meal that in previous years has also been an early morning breakfast.

Last Friday’s invitation, though, came from Cullen McKain, The Bridge’s new Sales Director and also Community Relations Director.

McKain’s presentation, which was highlighted by yet another fantastic food feast prepared under the watchful eye of Executive Chef Marvin Carter and his staff, received high marks and praise from a host of people including Johnston Police Chief Joseph P. Razza and many members of the town’s Fire Department.

“I can’t thank Mr. McKain, Mrs. Grace, the staff and residents enough for the gracious luncheon they provided to our First Responders here today,” said Razza. “Chef Marvin truly outdid himself and we are so appreciative of the overwhelming support The Bridge at Cherry Hill has always provided for us; they are a tremendous community partner.”

To which McKain added: “Leading into the Memorial Day weekend the residents and staff here at The Bridge at Cherry Hill celebrated our First Responders and showed our appreciation for all they continue to do by hosting a barbecue on the patio for police, fire and rescue personal; they have always done so much for us.”

McKain, who lives in Warren, went on: “A special thank you to Marvin Carter and the dietary staff that provided this delicious feast.”

People like Johnston Police Officer Patrolman David Slinko and Johnston Fire Department Lt. Jon concurred as they enjoyed the menu that consisted of cheeseburgers, hamburgers, hot dogs, BBQ spare ribs, Memphis chicken wings, BBQ beef briskets, grilled salmon with Asian sweet chili glaze, clam cakes and Carter’s special chowder. The food received rave reviews from all the first responders in attendance.