The Man Who Would Be Governor Celebrates A Birthday

Lincoln Chafee with Ellen Barnes

Lincoln Chafee, the Republican-turned-Independent candidate for Governor of Rhode Island, was fêted at a birthday party held at Berkeley House, the former residence of Jane Pickens and Walter Hoving in Newport recently. Notably absent was host Ron Fleming, but Mr. Chafee welcomed guests on his behalf as a crush of well-wishers and campaigners filled the rooms.

The former Senator from Rhode Island, Chafee graciously greeted each arrival in the soaring foyer of the house, thanking supporters and exchanging campaign stories. Speaking with the candidate were author Eileen Warburton, Jerry and Eileen Slocum, Ellen Barnes, Hugh D. (Yusha) Auchincloss, Tim and Jeanne O’Neill, and Oscar Chilabito.

The former Senator greeting guests

Ascending the curved staircase, introduced by Patrick Rogers as “the perfect candidate” and “our next governor,” he spoke of his vision, and how he would meet the challenges facing the state. The first was “getting people to work,” citing completed projects that are ready to attract new businesses to the state, including the the relocation of route 195, Quonset Point’s new road, and T.F. Green’s train station and connector. “Companies will come, with proper facilities,” he stated. “And they are going to get a fair shake in Rhode Island.”

Listening appreciatively were Jonathan Paquette, Eva Heroux, Deborah Winthrop and Paula and Kenneth Proulx (whose father is second cousin to the novelist and writer Annie Proulx, author of “The Shipping News” and “Brokeback Mountain.”) David Ford left early for another engagement.

Anne Livingston, Barbara & Pieter Roos

And how old is how now? Mr. Chafee, son of the late Senator John Chafee, told his listeners, “57. Old enough to run for Governor,.” Then he graciously accepted a magnificent birthday cake.

Mr. Chafee was formerly a Distinguished Visiting Fellow at Brown University's Watson Institute for International Studies.