Warde Product to Lead Eighth Annual Community Christmas Carol Sing-Along in Bridgeport

Andrew Warde High School 1976 classmate Tony Procaccini, Music Director of Saint Emery Parish in Fairfield, has announced that Operation Hope of Fairfield will once again collect items of non-perishable food for the homeless and hungry as "admission" to the 8th Annual Community Christmas Carol Sing-Along.

A contribution of one food item per person is suggested.

"This is a great way to celebrate the season and for families, especially kids, to have a great time," said Procaccini, who is pictured below far right, along with (L-R) Carla Miklos, Executive Director, Operation Hope, Donna Schmidt, Volunteer Program Manager, Operation Hope, and Leonard Paoletta, President, B.A.C.I.O., Inc.

The sing-along is sponsored by B.A.C.I.O., Inc., a non-profit group promoting Italian culture and history created by Paoletta, former mayor of Bridgeport. B.A.C.I.O. has a Facebook page, which is gaining popularity, and all are encouraged to see it, to 'like' it, and to consider joining.

The Sing-Along is scheduled for Sunday, December 14, at 3 o'clock in the afternoon. The singing starts at Saint Margaret Shrine, 2539 Park Avenue, in Bridgeport. Santa Claus will appear for the kids, and the singing is followed by a free indoor reception.

In past years, guest conductors have participated in the sing-along. They've included Brian Ente of Jim Royle's Drum Studio, Bridgeport, and Frank Martignetti, Director of Choral Studies at the University of Bridgeport.

This year Mike Lantowski, Music Director of Saint Pius X Parish, Fairfield and Organist of Temple Israel, Westport, will lead the chorus, giving Procaccini a brief spell. Lantowski is a graduate of the Manhattan School of Music and considered one of the finest concert organists in Fairfield County.

In case of inclement weather, please follow the signs on the street to the indoor venue. A volunteer chorus and the Chris Doney Brass Quartet will be directed by Procaccini. He quips, "I love this event, and I hope we can make it into a strong and permanent fixture in the local calendar."