Andrew Warde High School Classes of 1976, 1977, and 1978 to Hold Informal Gathering This Sunday Afternoon at Captain's Cove Seaport in Bridgeport

An informal gathering for Andrew Warde High School alumni from the classes of 1976, 1977, and 1978 will take place this Sunday afternoon, July 12, from 1 to 7 o'clock at Captain's Cove Seaport in the Black Rock section of Bridgeport. The event originally began as a casual get-together a few years ago by members of the Warde Class of 1978 as a means to stay in touch. However, it has quickly become an annual tradition by expanding to include the two prior classes.

"An annual event like this helps bring together classmates in the years other than those spaced out every five years from graduation," offered Tony Procaccini of the Warde Class of 1976 and president of the 30-year reunion committee in 2006. "A student missing one formal reunion, effectively, doesn't see his high school peers (other than those close to him/her) for 10 years. Thus, this opportunity brings together friends unable to attend on other dates."

Procaccini, who said about 20 classmates from the Class of 1976 attended the event for the first time in 2007, thinks the gathering is ideal for Warde alumni who still live locally. "It's easy to bring children and spouses, have no worry about formal RSVPs and admission charges, and just show up in casual attire at any time during the time span," he pointed out.

"For those who live far away, if they happen to be vacationing, have a need to visit family in the home town, or just want to get away and find long-time friends in a relaxed atmosphere, it's perfect," added Procaccini, pictured below with classmate Joanne Amelung Lavista during the July get-together two years ago.

The highlight of this year's event will be a performance by the local band To the Max, featuring Andrew Warde High School graduates Rob Fried (1977) and Jerry Vigorito (1976), local businessmen and musicians who founded Band Together in 2005. Band Together creates great musical events which unite a community of talented musicians with concerned citizens to raise money for Connecticut families in need or local charities.

As for the venue, since 1982, Captain’s Cove Seaport, located on historic Black Rock Harbor, has grown from a vacant lot and a handful of slips to one of Connecticut’s premier tourist attractions and seaport complexes. Food and drinks are available in the 400-seat restaurant, which includes everything from different varieties of seafood to hot dogs and hamburgers to chicken sandwiches.

There are many novelty gift shops built in Colonial and Victorian architectural styles along the boardwalk. Visitors may also enjoy an hour-long boat ride on Long Island Sound aboard the Chief. There are many other seasonal attractions as well. Captain's Cove is an active maritime and amusement center for residents of southwestern Connecticut.

Procaccini, the music director at nearby St. Patrick's Parish in Bridgeport, said the early response has been encouraging. "This year, approximately 20 classmates have responded 'yes' to our invitation," he said. "So, adding in a spouse and a kid here and there, we'll probably number 25 to 30, in my estimate. Again, look at our Web soon after July 12 for another set of photos of classmates having fun in the sun!"

Sunday will be the warmest day in quite some time with the afternoon temperature climbing into the mid 80s. Any early showers will give way to clearing skies by late morning. At this point, Mother Nature looks as though she is going to cooperate and offer a dry and warm afternoon for us.

Paul

Please sign the AWHS Guest Book.

Visit the Andrew Warde High School Gift Shop.

Watch the AWHS 1976 vintage "film".