Manton Seniors host annual Halloween bash

Times seem to be changing for the Manton Seniors.

“Age really doesn’t matter,” Lori DeVito, longtime president of the independent senior citizens group, said Sunday during the annual Halloween Party at Twelve Acres in Smithfield. “Today is a gathering of generations.”

Take DeVito’s granddaughter Audra Krzyzek, for example. She came dressed in a leopard’s costume and her boyfriend – Anthony Pezzillo – was decked out as a Mortal Kombat warrior.

But DeVito wasn’t about to be outdone, and she dressed as a zebra for the costume-optional Halloween bash.

“Personally, I’d love to see more events like this,” DeVito said. “It’s really special when people’s children – and even grandchildren – share these events. And one thing is certain – you don’t need a costume to have fun.”

But nearly a dozen people who attended Sunday’s sold-out Halloween Party – which featured dinner prepared and served by the Twelve Acres staff and music from the famed Calamari Brothers – showed that you’re never too old to dress in a costume.

Doris Dalmazzi, for example, was one of two witches all dressed in black and her gothic hat.

Dalmazzi and DeVito were also among the many Manton Seniors who participated in the traditional Halloween Parade of Costumes, which was again enhanced by music played by the Calamari Brothers.

Although there was no prize for the best costume, the people who did dress for the occasion used some clever creativity and were decked out in everything from old-time grandma’s garb to a pirate to a senorita to a jailbird. That group included Marie Pezzillo (witch), Claire Cioci (toreador), Donna Bianco (senorita), Mary Bessette (grandma), Teresa Saravo (pirate), Mary Varone (jailbird) and Josephine Elliano (nurse).

Sunday’s annual Halloween Party was also highlighted by the multi-prize raffle held at all Manton Seniors functions.

The dinner pleased people’s palates and included family-style soup, salad and macaroni and a choice of either chicken marsala or scrod.

DeVito announced that the Manton Seniors Italian Gala will be held on Sunday, Nov. 16 at Twelve Acres, and will feature either veal parmesan or scrod with music by the Calamari Brothers.

The annual Christmas Party Dinner Dance is set for Sunday, Deb. 14. Those who would like more information or to purchase tickets may call DeVito at 401-232-2499 or see Rose Coppolla next Tuesday at the group’s meeting.

“We now hold out monthly meetings at the Johnston Senior Center,” DeVito said. “Unlike our past meetings, we offer lunch then hold our business meeting.”

Next Tuesday’s meeting will begin with lunch at noon, and people will have a choice of breaded veal with tomato sauce or a meatball grinder. Those planning to attend are asked to call DeVito. The meeting will start at 1 p.m.