By Randal Edgar

PROVIDENCE, R.I. -- Recognizing birthdays is a common practice at the House of Representatives, but one birthday that House members recognized last week as they opened their 2010 session deserves special note.

The salute went to Frank DiPaolo Jr., who works as one of 12 House doorkeepers, making sure that only House members, staff, the press and invited guests are allowed to wander in while lawmakers are in session.

DiPaolo got the salute because he still works and he still drives -- at age 103.

He drew warm applause as House members opened their session on Tuesday and also drew special praise for his driving from House Speaker William J. Murphy.

"Frank, at 103, you're still a much better driver than Governor Sundlun," Murphy said.

Readers may recall that Sundlun, who turns 90 next week, told The Journal last year that he had decided to turn in his license at the advice of family and friends, following a series of mishaps.