Cicilline's Elected President of RI Association of Democratic City/Town Chairpersons

The RI Association of Democratic City/Town Chairpersons had its Biennial Organizational meeting on Wednesday at Luigi’s Restaurant, 1357 Hartford Avenue in Johnston, and unanimously elected former Senator J. Clement ‘Bud’ Cicilline, from Newport, as President for the 2013-2015 term. Cicilline said that he was, “. . .Grateful and thrilled to be able to lead the Association for the next two years."

"I want to work closely with all the chairs, the leadership in State Democratic Party, and Democrat elected officials to assure unity and victory in the 2014 election," Cicilline said.

Other officers also elected unanimously were:

• 1st  Vice President Michael Burk (Tiverton)
• 2nd Vice President Robert Johnson (Exeter)
• Secretary Kate Lambert (Burrillville)
• Treasurer Winter Hames (Narragansett) 

Immediate Past President Katrina Therien (North Smithfield) was thanked for her dedicated service and presented with a gift of appreciation. 

Johnston Mayor Joseph M. Polisena extended a welcome to the chairs and their guests. He also congratulated the Association in selecting Cicilline. He recalled their days of service together in the State Senate and said that Cicilline is “very honest, dedicated, and compassionate person who brings the right kind of leadership to your organization.” 

Also offering remarks was former Representative and State Democratic Party Chair, Edwin Pacheco. He applauded the election of Cicilline and said, “I know that Bud will work very hard for the Association. We have already worked together on some projects and I know how committed he is to unity in our Party.”

Pacheco also thanked the chairs for all their hard work in the last election and said he looks forward to working with them again for victory at the polls in 2014.

Rep. James Langevin (Dist 2) and Attorney General Peter Kilmartin were also in attendance and congratulated all the officers and thanked all the chairs for all their support. Special guests who were recognized included National Committeewoman Edna O’Neill Matson (North Kingstown)  and former Association President Anthony Arico (Barrington).

Cicilline then addressed the group, giving an outline of his plans in leading the organization for the next 2 years.

This information was provided by the RI Association of Democratic City/Town Chairpersons