Greeting them just before a ceremony marking the naming of a bridge for local World War II hero Robert Conroy in Auburn on May 26th, I couldn’t help but think that Paul Frost had won “The Battle of the Ties” over Michael Moore.

 

Maybe it was the ensemble Mr. Frost had put together: blue jacket, blue tie checkered with white markings, blue shirt of a slightly softer shade, khaki slacks, black shoes.

Color coordinated and quite impressive.

Of course, there was no competition for the honor of Best Dressed involved—and Mr. Moore looked dapper in his own right for the start of the Memorial Day weekend.

Nor is there any friction or animosity between Mr. Frost, a Republican, and Mr. Moore, a Democrat. None of the backbiting and vitriol that can regularly be witnessed between members of opposite political parties in Washington, or at some state houses and town halls across the country.

That is the thing about the Central Massachusetts and Blackstone Valley legislative delegations. An unmistakable rapport and common sense of purpose exists within their ranks.

Rep. Frost and Sen. Moore are evidence of this. Paul Frost, who lives in Auburn, has served the 7th Worcester District since being elected at the age of twenty-six in 1996. Mike Moore, a lifelong resident of Millbury, won his seat in the 2nd Worcester District in 2008.

Those who disparage “career politicians” often overlook the large swath of territory these officials are responsible for, on Beacon Hill; areas that demand much of their time and effort—including after-hours’ commitments. Rep. Frost’s district includes all or parts of Auburn, Charlton, Leicester, Millbury and Oxford. Sen. Moore’s district includes all or parts of Auburn, Grafton, Millbury, Shrewsbury, Westborough and Worcester.

When it was their turn to offer brief remarks, Mr. Frost had high praise for the assistance Mr. Moore provided in shepherding a bill Mr. Frost sponsored through to an affirmative vote, on Robert Conroy’s family’s behalf.

“It took some time, these bills are not so simple and easy to do, to name bridges after people who in their lives and actions have earned it and that’s what Robert Conroy did,” Rep. Frost said.

For his part, Sen. Moore noted that Robert Conroy, who was killed in action in Italy along with his service dog, “made the sacrifice for others.”

Sen. Moore might have been speaking for both Rep. Frost and himself when he said “having an opportunity like this is one of the best parts of the job.”

Contact Rod Lee at [email protected] or 774-232-2999.