East Greenwich has a new bus for senior services and everyone seems pretty happy about it. Money to replace the bus – $75,000 – was included in this year's budget but delivery took longer than expected. It arrived two days after Christmas. 

"They started it for us in July, and it was supposed to be done in November but it took a little longer," said Erin McAndrew, director of senior and human services for the town. She said it was ok because the manufacturer lent the town a bus free of charge. 

The bus transports residents 55 and older, or anyone with disabilities, to and from lunch at Swift Community Center, shopping trips and doctor's appointments. 

Driver Harry Mosher takes his job seriously. The senior services transportation coordinator for East Greenwich, Mosher greets clients by name, helps them into the bus, and stows walkers and fastens seat belts if needed. 

One day last week, I rode along with Harry as he picked up clients for lunch. The bus was smooth, the seniors were comfortable, and Harry was the happy host – it was a bit like Cheers on wheels.