Concert continues town's Columbus Day festivities

Town residents flocked to the Green in droves last Saturday for a concert and car show organized by the town of North Haven's Columbus Day Parade Committee. The event featured two musical ensembles, as well as several food and beverage vendors and a number of antique cars. The event was the first of several fund-raisers for the Columbus Day Parade Committee.

This year it is North Haven's turn to host the annual New Haven County Columbus Day Parade. The parade, which will take place on Oct. 12, is an important symbol of New Haven county's significant Italian-American presence.

"There is a lot of heritage that this gives back to the community," said Nick Casella, co-chairman of the North Haven Columbus Day Parade Committee.

Years ago, festivities like the Columbus Day Parade were held in New Haven, until their town committee decided that it would be more practical to share the responsibility and the fun of hosting the annual parade with the surrounding towns.

The show began with a set by Johnny and the East Coast Rockers. Hailing from Rhode Island, the band played a number of old-time rock and roll songs including hits like Johnny Cash's "Folsom Prison Blues." Strong contributions by their tenor saxophone player and upright bass player gave the band a very authentic 1950s feel.

Some chose to sit and watch the band play, while others wandered through the small car exhibition, which included an antique patrol car, amongst several others.

Exceptional food was available throughout the evening, provided by several vendors. One could munch on clam strips and fried calamari from the Big Y tent, and follow it up with some Italian ice served by the Italian Youth Organization.

Town residents had nothing but positive things to say about the food and the entertainment.

"It's good stuff", said North Haven resident George Creamer.

By the time Emozione, an Italian rock band, took the stage the Green was packed. Emozione was well received. Their brand of Italian pop rock struck a chord with those familiar with Italian artists like Ligabue and Eros Ramazzotti.

Upcoming Columbus Day events include a walking tour of the Wooster Square area Sept. 13 and a cultural night hosted by the Knights of Columbus Museum Sept. 26.

"We're trying to bring all the cultures back together," said Casella. "It's not for one organization, it's for everybody."