By Michael P. Walsh
Special to the Voice
Mayor Dorinda Borer honored 22 married couples of at least 50 years at the city’s annual Valentine’s Day party Friday.
Maple Street residents Walter and Myrna Clinton, who have been married for 70 years, were among the West Haven couples recognized by Borer on the main floor of the Johnson Community Center at 201 Noble St.
The event, a tradition in its 34th year, was rescheduled from the holiday of love because of icy conditions.
Borer played Cupid and presented the Clintons, the event’s oldest couple, with a citation for their “enduring marriage.” They also received a glass vase with freshly cut flowers.
Reading the citation, the mayor said, “With every step of your journey, your support for each other through the joys and challenges of seven decades together is an inspiration to us all.”
When Borer inquired about the couple’s secret to a long-lasting marriage, Walter Clinton revealed his infinite wisdom in two words: “Yes, dear,” drawing laughter from his wife and the other couples.
Myrna Clinton responded more conventionally, saying, “Live life one day at a time, don’t be stubborn and be there for each other.”
Borer delivered remarks welcoming the couples, many dressed in red, before raising a glass and leading them in a toast to “life, love and laughter.”
Each couple received a heart-shaped box of candy and a bottle of nonalcoholic wine courtesy of Better Rhodes, the Stamford-based premium beverage company.
The two-hour party, presented by the mayor’s office and the Department of Elderly Services, featured oldies music crooned by West Haven’s own Alex Pericas Jr. and lunch catered by Lorenzo’s Restaurant of West Haven. The entertainment was sponsored by Tim’s Auto Center of West Haven.