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Community Corner

Melillo Benefit Huge Smash

A fundraiser for Ralph Melillo, lifelong East Havener stricken with a degenerative condition, brought out hundreds of friends and relatives who showered and honored the man with love.

Last Saturday, East Haven saw a night like it’s never seen before. A benefit took place for my cousin Ralph Melillo who was diagnosed with cervical myelopathy the week before Christmas. Naturally this was devastating to our very close-knit family and we were uncertain as to what to do.

We finally decided the best way to honor him was to give this benefit. Not only was this held to raise money for his up-and-coming medical bills, but it was an opportunity for his friends and family to come and show their love and support.

Ralph and I grew up very close and shared many of the same friends but never in my wildest dreams did I expect such a turnout Saturday at Il Salice. I knew the night was going to be amazing when we presold over 400 tickets and then sold another 100-plus at the door

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Al Vollono -- whom I call more family than friend and who really did most of the organizing of this event -- and I began to panic over the lack of space in the room. But it was clear that no one cared. All anyone cared about was showing Ralph the love and support he so richly deserves.

At one point in the night with the never-ending receiving line of people just waiting to see Ralph, hug him and, yes, meet him because of the wonderful things they heard about him, I jokingly whispered in his ear that he reminded me of Marlon Brandon in "Godfather" and all he needed was the ring.

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The hardest part of the evening was staying strong and not letting the emotions show, but then the current East Haven hockey team led by coach Lou Pane marched in with their jerseys on and presented Ralph with his 1977 No. 16 high school hockey jersey.

That for me was the most touching moment.

I would like to send a big thank you to all our friends and family who came out to support him. Our goal was to give him the biggest party ever and wanted him to feel the love while he is still able to really enjoy it.

A special thank you to Sal and the Red Hill Rockers, DJ Ralph and to all those who sent raffle items and worked so hard to get out there and sell tickets and ask for donations. You are truly selfless and you played a huge part in making this happen.

Overall, the night and crowd were an obvious testament of love to this man who has always given so much. Whatever road lies ahead for our family, this night and Ralph's smile will last in our hearts forever.

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