Two of Warwick’s most prominent political figures visited to Halcyon West Bay assisted living last Wednesday for a celebration of six of Warwick’s oldest residents.

Halcyon’s centenarian celebration honored Halcyon’s six residents of 100 years or older- one of the highest numbers of centenarians the facility has ever had.

Speaker of the House Joe Shekarchi and Mayor Frank Picozzi were present, mingling with residents and speaking with them and their families.

“I enjoy coming here very much,” Shekarchi said. “It’s a great organization, and the tenants here are wonderful.”

The six Halcyon residents over 100 years old are Isobel Sherman and Gloria DiFolco, both 100, Rita Gendron and Ruth Lundin, both 101, and Dorothy Ferrelli and Rosalee Malaby, both 103.

Life Enrichment Director Johanna Schiffer said she first brought up the idea of a commemoration for the facility’s then seven 100-year-olds to Shekarchi in September. Shekarchi was strongly in favor of the idea, and promised to bring in a crowd for it.

“We set it up from there,” Schiffer said. “And he really delivered.”

While two of the centenarians weren’t feeling well enough to make the event, the other four joined other residents for an afternoon of entertainment and a banquet-style meal. The four in attendance wore tiaras throughout the event to distinguish them.

In addition to the politicians, residents saw a live show from Warwick-based singer Bombshell Betty.

Picozzi also signed an official proclamation declaring Jan. 31 Centenarian Day in the city.

Schiffer said she “hadn’t really thought” about the fact that her planning was responsible for a new city day. She was happy about it, though, saying that the residents deserve the honor.

Shekarchi’s father is approaching the century mark as well; He will be 98 later this month. The Speaker said being around his father is incredibly meaningful to him, and helps make this visit a very meaningful one as well.

“I enjoy having him every day in my life,” Shekarchi said. “When I leave here, I’m going to pick up some dinner, and [I’ll be having] dinner with my dad tonight.”

According to Executive Director Melissa Stock, preparations for the festivities went smoothly, in large part due to the number of people at Halcyon involved.

“We have a really great team here,” Stock said.

Stock said that with the holiday, Halcyon West Bay is planning on making the centenarian celebration an annual event. The residents who attended the celebration, she said, had a great time. 

Following remarks from Shekarchi and Picozzi at 4 p.m., as well as hors d’oeuvres, attendees received cake and gave a champagne toast to Halcyon’s six centenarians.