Forand Tenants Association swears in new officers
There was a unique ceremony that included a brief segment of pomp and circumstances inside the Aime J. Forand Housing Complex in Johnston Monday afternoon.
Even when Mayor Joseph Polisena issued the Oath of Office for the Forand Tenants Association and later delivered a min-State of the Town Address, the event will long be remembered for its fun, food and fellowship.
It all began with Bev Williams, who was officially sworn in as President of the highly-active Forand Tenants Association, and continued during Polisena’s light-hearted but information filled speech. The Forand Tenants Association, in fact, could be likened to Polisena’s ongoing Economic Development in Johnston.
While the mayor announced that “new businesses have recently come to town and we’re expecting others to announce their plans soon,” Williams wanted it known that the goal of her administration is to have as many social events as possible.
At one point during the swift-moving swearing in ceremony, Williams walked in front of the bingo board and announced how important the aging piece of equipment is and the need to replace it with a more modern number board.
“This is our biggest money-maker,” Williams told a good size audience that included Town Councilman David Santilli and Johnston Housing Authority Executive Director David aRusso, just to name a few. “We are working real, real hard to replace this board.”
She also pointed out the need for volunteers to help keep up the cleanly condition that exists inside the often used community room and announced a number of upcoming events beginning with the annual Valentine’s Party and later the always unique St. Patrick’s Day celebration.
“We want to continue to be an active association,” Williams said while praising Jessica Lemieux Layden, the JHA’s Resident Services Coordinator for her tireless work and willingness to always help wherever she’s need. “We operate year round hope to have many different events here this year.”
Next Thursday – Jan. 18 – the Forand Tenants Association will host officials from Santander Bank who will put on a special class on how to do basic banking on a monthly budget.
“That’s just one example of the work Jess does here,” Williams said about Layden. “She’s always here for all of us here at Aime J. Forand. Next week’s class is open to all residents who live here.”
While Williams was sworn in as president, Cathy Santoro was installed as Vice President and Janice Grande will serve as treasurer. Polisena gave Official Citations to Williams, Grande and Santoro and left one for Natalie Cardinal, who wasn’t on hand but will serve as the Forand Tenants Association secretary.
