The West Side Boys have one thing in common: they grew up on the West Side of Stamford. They gather monthly at what they call “The West Side Dinner” to honor themselves and the beloved section of Stamford where they grew up.
The inaugural West Side dinner traces back to a Saturday night nearly 40 years ago, when Roger Toronto, founder of the group, organized the first gathering at Chapter II restaurant, owned by Jim Sabia. However, the consistency of these dinners wouldn't begin until years later when Roger, Jim and eight other men started meeting more regularly at the 19th Hole restaurant and at Roger’s house on Bell Street.
After Roger's passing, Jim kept the tradition alive. When he was ready to hand over the leadership position in 2020, Michael Reppucci assumed the role. The dinners have remained true to their original spirit of honoring the memories and camaraderie of the West Side.
The West Side dinners are still planned the old-fashioned way, by phone call. A dedicated group of "callers" personally reach out to each member with the time and location for the next dinner - typically held at Pellicci's, Columbus Park, Villa Italia and other area restaurants.
So much has changed about the West Side, but for these men, what remains the same are their stories and memories from childhood. It was where they learned to ride bikes through the streets of Finney Lane, Schuyler Avenue, Stephen Street, Ann Street, Stillwater and Connecticut Avenue.
Many remember running errands for their mothers to places like Frattaroli’s Chicken Market, Yanelli’s deli and Biancardi’s bakery. Many milestones were celebrated with family at Sabia’s Open Door, The Brass Rail, Cipri’s Pizza and Pellicci’s.
“Each corner and each street hold a different memory for each of us and we will never forget what it gave to us,” said Alex Lionetti, who grew up on Schuyler Avenue.
Stories about the Catholic Youth Organization (CYO) sporting events and playing baseball in the Mickey Lione League. For Jim Ferrara and Michael Reppucci, the West Side was where their love of cars began and where The Black Roads Auto Club was created in a garage in 1957. Victor Terenzio proudly shares a photo. He's standing on the corner of Burr Street and West Avenue in front of his rebuilt ‘39 Ford. They were not only building cars, but memories and friendships.
What keeps them coming back every month? Bill Gerardi says, “It’s like sitting in a barber’s chair. You get all the latest gossip and catch up on everyone’s family. It’s a great place to be every month and at our ages, you never know who may not be at the next dinner.”
The eldest member of the group, Michael Macri, 92, is joined monthly by his son Michael, like other father-son duos: Frank and Mike Chambers, Michael and Eddie Reppucci, and Anthony and Vinny Rizzi. The importance of joining their fathers has made it special for both generations.
The West Side Boys are more than just a group of friends sharing a meal. They share love and pride for their hometown and each other. They are proof that no matter where life took them, what path they chose to follow, what hardships and achievements they have experienced or how much time has passed, the West Side of Stamford will always remain the heart of who they are.
“Each corner and each street hold a different memory for each of us and we will never forget what it gave to us.” Alex Lionetti
“It’s like sitting in a barber’s chair. You get all the latest gossip and catch up on everyone’s family. It’s a great place to be every month..." Bill Geradi