Guanci had put off visiting Lombardi because of scheduling conflicts, despite a number of invitations from the artist. Finally, they set a date and Lombardi told Guanci he would pick the councilor up himself to make certain there would be no cancellation.

" I hung up the phone took a deep breath, and realized I was trapped," joked Guanci.

Lombardi walked the councilor through his paintings until they came upon the rendition of the State House.

"He told me this is the painting I should buy, and that I should present it to Senator Berry for all of the work he has done for the North Shore," said Guanci.

Berry, who is in his ninth term in office, was present and laughing Monday night as the council presented him with the painting.

"I have trouble keeping a job," joked Berry as Guanci rattled off the numerous positions the senator has held on Capitol Hill over the years.

When Guanci asked Lombardi if he should buy another painting for Representative Cahill, Lombardi was quick to answer.

"He said, 'when Representative Cahill has been around as long as Senator Berry, then I'll paint another one and you can buy it and present it to him,'" Guanci said.

Lombardi seemed as honored that the senator accepted his painting as Berry was in receiving it.

"I want to thank the Senator for accepting one of my treasures," said Lombardi. "They say you have to be around a hundred years to be famous, but tonight I feel as famous as Michelangelo."

The senator was self-effacing as council president Timothy Flaherty handed him the framed painting.

"I'm overwhelmed by this," said Berry as he accepted the rendition. The senator left the room laughing.

"Does this mean I've been around too long?" he asked.