Remembering Richard Slater

Family and many friends will gather tomorrow from 3 to 5 p.m. at the Pistey Funeral Home, 2155 Main Street, to pay respects to Richard Slater, who passed away last Friday at Bridgeport Hospital. He was 89. Richard and his wife of 66 years, Joyce, lived for many year in the Elm Street saltbox they had made into a neighborhood jewel.

Born in Orange, N.J., he lived in Stratford most of his life before moving to Crosby Commons in Shelton two years ago. He opened and operated Dick's Magic Kitchen in Stratford for years before becoming house manager of the Shakespeare Theater until his retirement.

His warmth, humor and unfailing good cheer made him a beloved figure in the neighborhood. We will miss him terribly.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a college scholarship fund to be established in Richard's memory for a Stratford student majoring in theater. Donations to the fund may be made to: Richard Slater Scholarship Fund, c/o Atty. Peter Kaiser, 1136 Broadbridge Ave., Stratford, CT 06615.

Perry House Rocks

The board of directors of the Perry House Foundation Inc. begins a new approach to fundraising for Stratford's historic Perry House with three unique events.

In recognition of Stratford's diverse population, three 2009 events will focus on three countries to which so many town families trace their roots.

The first event, to take place May 16, will celebrate the contributions made to American culture by Italian immigrants and will focus on the exciting aspects of their heritage. The party, called Celebrazione Italia, will be about all those gifts  Amercians have come to love — the wonderful food, art, wines, music and intellectual achievement.

The event will take place at the Perry House & Visitors Center, 1128 West Broad Street. Biagio Barone of Biagio's Osteria & Wine Bar will provide wonderful foods, and chef Anthony Deluca of Lord Chamberlain will present a Venetian table. Guest will enjoy a selection of fine Italian wines and cordials, and Italian music will add to the special theme.

On July 18, the Foundation will host an event honoring those of Irish descent. Plans are underway for that festival as well as for an autumn event featuring a focus on Russian culture.

To learn more, please call the Pery House at 377-3779.

Shakespeare Theater Plan Dead Again

The Connecticut Post reports: Like a character in a long-running tragedy, a plan by a Rhode Island developer to revive the Shakespeare Theater appears to be dead, the latest in a serious of failed attempts over 21 years to re-open the Elm Street showcase.

Town Attorney Richard Buturla recommended Monday night to the Town Council that it reject what he called theater producer Bill Hanney's "final contract offer" changed at the last minute by Hanney to exclude key provisions that protects the town, and adds language that puts the town at serious financial risk.

"There are serious changes in what Mr. Hanney and Mr. Knott (attorney for Hanney Barry Knott) indicate is their final contract proposal that would put the town in great jeopardy."

While the council did not vote on the recommendation, Mayor James R. Miron said the 11th hour changes by the developer are "completely unacceptable," and that "you could put a gun to my head and I will never sign this contract."

To read the full article, go to: http://www.connpost.com/ci_12033161

Shakespeare Theater Meeting: April 2nd at 7:00pm

On April 2nd at 7:00pm, the Arts Commission will have a meeting at Christ Episcopal Church regarding the Shakespeare Theater contract brought forth by the developer. This meeting will be one of the last chances before the council votes for neighbors to make their voices heard.

A Taste Of Stratford

Join the Stratford Visiting Nurses at their annual fundraiser and taste the best food in Town! Thursday April 2, 2009. All proceeds from the event are used to support their programs and to provide home care services to area residentswho are uninsured or unable to afford care. Stratford VNA is a non-profit group and has served Stratford and the neighboring towns since 1919. Visit their website for additional details and photos http://www.stratfordvna.org/

Wild Things

Master conservationist David Wright will discuss "Conservation in the 21st Century" at 10 a.m. this Saturday, February 21, at the Perry House, 1128 West Broad Street. Mr. Wright will explore the evolution of attitudes about wildlife in America in the four centuries since the dawn of European colonization as humans have evolved culturally and socially. He will also discuss the effects of farming and manufacturing that led to the extinction of some species and what has been done in Connecticut. Sponsored by the Perry House Foundation, the event is open to the public and free. To learn more, call the Perry House at 377-3779.

Local Restaurant News

Stratford Center: Looks like a "For Lease" sign has changed. The old Reality Cafe has been leased. Rumor has it an English Pub is coming soon. The old Ciao Restaurant has several new prospects being interviewed by the landlord. We'll keep our fingers crossed there.

Paradise Green: Welcome to the new Dunkin Donuts. Also look for a remodel in Paradise Pizza. A newly renovated lounge/bar area for you to enjoy while waiting, as well as a new take-out space are in the works. Should be done shortly.

Other areas: Vallarta Grill & Cantina on Barnum Avenue (across from Burger King) is no more. Welcome to the new "Stratford Restaurant". Udates on the cuisine to follow.

Please patronize our local merchants: restaurants, stores, salons and others.