By Melanie Petrucci, Senior Community Reporter
Shrewsbury – Worcester County Sheriff Lew Evangelidis presided over the Sheriff’s Annual Senior Picnic Aug. 18 at the Scandinavian Athletic Club Park in Shrewsbury. The special guest was Lt. Gov. Karyn Polito.
“I’ve been sheriff for eight years and this is my eighth picnic and I can honestly say every year it gets bigger and better,” Evangelidis said.
There were roughly 1,100 seniors present representing all 60 communities in Worcester County.
The event was emceed by DJ Tim Cluett and was free for all Worcester County senior citizens. A barbecue luncheon was served and guests enjoyed entertainment provided by the McInerney School of Irish Dance and Tony Funches (lead singer of The Platters.) There were games (including Bingo), prizes, and goody bags which were presented to all the seniors in attendance.
Carol Swydan from Shrewsbury was happy to be in attendance and commented on how much Evangelidis did for the community.
“The joy that this picnic brings to so many is amazing and I have to thank the incredible team that puts this on,” Evangelidis noted.
Over 200 volunteers helped make the event happen, including the Nichols College Football Team. The Worcester County Reserve Deputy Sheriff’s Association was also a supporter, and there were many generous donations from local businesses and elected officials.
“We do it for the seniors and I know that they love this day and we just love to be here with them,” Evengelidis said. “This is all about the community coming together to take care of each other and this is what makes Worcester County a special place.”
Also in attendance was Worcester County District Attorney Joseph D. Early Jr.
“This is a great event,” he said. “The sheriff and his staff and the Reserve Deputy Sheriff’s Association bring the greatest generation together for a fabulous day and I’m proud to be a part of it.”
(Photos/Melanie Petrucci)