March City Council in Congratulatory Mood

After several snowstorms had postponed prior city council meetings, the March East Providence City Council meeting was mostly spent honoring area students and community members for winning awards and for helping other people in need. "It was nice to see us praise so many people for positive things in our city," said at-large council member Tracy Capobianco.

The night started out with Mayor Tom Rose inviting the RI State Middle School State champion Wrestling team, Martin Middle School, to begin the Pledge of Allegiance. Most of the 39 member wrestling squad was in attendance to receive certificates from the council.

Also being honored for their Basketball Coaches versus Cancer tournament in which over $3,000. was raised for cancer research was the East Providence High School girls basketball team. The team has raised $15,000 over 8 years.

Mr. Tony Ottone of Riverside was acknowleged for his now famous snow sculptures on Forbes Street, garnering national news headlines. Mr. Carl Sweeney and his 'Hope and Faith Charity Food Drive' volunteers were honored as was 'Opportunity Knocks' another charity organization started by RMS teacher Michael Solitro. Local entrepreneur, engineer and fundraiser John Carnevale also addressed the council on plans to rehab portions of Pierce Stadium.

Also EP teachers Erin Stevenson and Jennifer Lodge were given recognition for receiving RI Department of Education citations for excellence in teaching. Members of the high school Career and Technical Center were also honored.