On Sunday, December 13, 2009, for the third time in as many years, residents of the Greater Bridgeport area enjoyed an afternoon of Christmas carol singing, in the Annual Community Christmas Carol Sing-Along. Principal sponsors were B.A.C.I.O., Inc., a non-profit group promoting Italian culture, and Circolo Sportivo, a popular Italian club based in Bridgeport, CT. Former Bridgeport mayor Leonard Paoletta is the founder and president of B.A.C.I.O., Inc.

    For the first time since the sing-along's inception, inclement weather brought the caroling indoors, instead of the usual venue of the grounds of Saint Margaret's Shrine. Thus, the Circolo Sportivo building, on Park Avenue, hosted the event. Notwithstanding icy conditions which caused a 50-car highway spin-out in nearby Shelton, a very good-sized crowd attended.

    Carols and songs ranged from "The Star-Spangled Banner" to "Silent Night" to "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer." Children participated in the singing and were delighted when, as if by miracle, Santa Claus made his entrance, bringing gifts for the youngsters.

    Singers came from all the local towns and represented many of the nearby parishes, and two politicians, Bridgeport Mayor Bill Finch and Congressman Jim Himes, greeted the crowd and thanked all those who made the event a success.

    Special thanks also go to Father Alfonso Picone, of Saint Margaret and Saint Raphael parishes, and all others who contributed their time, effort and culinary delights. Free "coffee and..." followed the singing.

Anthony Procaccini
Music Director, Saint Patrick Church
Bridgeport