After more than 30 years at another site, the township switched up the location this year and moved Mayor Nicholas Sacco’s annual Senior Picnic into the spacious Recreation Center on Meadowview Avenue, and everyone agreed it was a tremendous success. Access was convenient from the senior residence buildings, and the center offered more than enough room for close to 100 tables, plus ample serving space, a dance floor to accommodate both humans and giant robots, and more.

 

The delicious meal included meatball, chicken parmigiana, eggplant, penne vodka, hot dogs, corn, crumb cake, beer, and soft drinks. Afterward, dozens of lucky winners took home prizes in the 50/50 raffle.

 

But first came the dancing. DJ Fernan provided a lively atmosphere throughout, with a live singer joining later in the afternoon. Also adding to the fun were colorful balloons and, yes, a giant dancing robot complete with flashing neon lights, to the delight of the crowd.

 

Joining the mayor to greet the seniors were Commissioners Hugo Cabrera, Allen Pascual, Claudia Rodriguez, and birthday boy Anthony Vainieri, along with Assemblyman Julio Marenco, County Commissioner Robert Baselice, former Commissioner Frank Gargiulo, Police Chief Robert Farley, Fire Director Michael DeOrio, and other officials.

 

Senior Center Supervisor Ana Maria Castello took over planning and coordination of the event for the first time this year and pulled off the change in venue flawlessly. An army of volunteers helped set up, serve, and clean up afterwards, along with employees from Senior Services, the Park & Recreation Department, DPW, Parking Authority, and more, all contributing to make the day a memorable experience for all who attended.