Page 4 - Wallingford Magazine Issue 59 Spring 2026

Magazine

Note from Tarn Granucci, Wallingford Magazine Owner and Editor:
The message below is from Tara Knapp, the Vice President of Gaylord Specialty Healthcare, who has
been deeply involved, along with so many others, in the America's 250th events described below.

Dear Readers,
As our nation approaches its 250th anniversary, communities across the country are preparing
to commemorate this historic milestone in meaningful and memorable ways. From national
initiatives to statewide observances and local celebrations, the Semiquincentennial offers a
unique opportunity to reflect on our shared history, honor our heritage, and look ahead with
renewed pride.

This nationwide effort was formally established in 2016 with the creation of the United States
Semiquincentennial Commission, and here in Connecticut, Governor Ned Lamont launched a
statewide commission in 2022 to guide a multi-year program of commemoration leading up to
July 4, 2026. In Wallingford, the vision for a local celebration began under former Mayor William
Dickinson, Jr. and has been carried forward by Mayor Vincent Cervoni through the formation of
a dedicated volunteer committee.

We are proud to highlight their work in this issue. Inside, you’ll find an article from the committee
outlining the planning and purpose behind Wallingford’s Semiquincentennial celebration,
6 The Gammerino schedule of events. Best of all, these events are free and open to the public, ensuring everyone
along with a special centerfold spread recognizing our generous sponsors and detailing the full
Fireworks
can take part in this once-in-a-generation celebration.
Family
by Bobbie Borne We encourage you to show your Wallingford pride by participating in the many activities
planned throughout the year—and by wearing it proudly as well. Official Semiquincentennial
merchandise, featuring Wallingford’s commemorative logo, will be available for purchase,
Town Center offering a fun and visible way to join in the spirit of the celebration.
Alley 16
Comes Alive This is more than an anniversary—it is a moment to come together as a community, celebrate
by Steve Knight our shared story, and create new memories for generations to come.
CONTENT
20 The Gaylord Personal Memories of the Backes Wallingford Fast-Track A Global Brand ...... 50
Fireworks Explosions ............................... 12
Farm
Town Government ..................................... 54
Sanatorium
Wallingford Marks America's 250th
with A Year of Celebration ........................ 28
by Celeste Yanni
Considering the 2026-27 Town Budget ..... 30 Wallingford, From Above ........................... 58
Red, White & Hue ...................................... 60
Wallingford's Uptown Magic .......................................... 31 WACA Spring Exhibition ............................ 64
Declaration 38 New Initiatives and Key Our Poetic Town ....................................... 65
Redevelopment Opportunities .................. 34
of Independence Coupons ................................................... 68
by Patrick M. Birney Wallingford Event List .............................. 36 Where Is It? .............................................. 69
Fine Arts Flowers & Verse ........................ 48 Where Is It? Winners ................................ 70
Downtown Wallingford Restaurant Hop .... 49
46 Trails Day Bobbie Borne || Bob Burghardt || Rajan Doering || Janice Martin, Ambassador
CONTRIBUTORS:
by Rajan Doering
Tarn Granucci || Wallingford Economic Development || Wesley Krombel || Angela Mitchell
Steve Knight || Celeste Yanni || Patrick M. Birney || Michele DiNello || Karen Ciosek || Tara Knapp

CONTACT US: PUBLISHER & EDITOR: ART, DESIGN & LAYOUT:
WallingfordMag.com Tarn Granucci, Wallingford Magazine, LLC Alex Gurin, AG Creative Works, LLC
P.O. Box 337, Wallingford, CT 06492
203-214-1874 | tarngranucci@gmail.com Wallingford Magazine is published five times a year.

4 WALLINGFORD MAGAZINE - SPRING 2026