Ansonia businesses hold field fundraiser

ANSONIA, Conn. (WTNH) -- When you see homemade chicken Marsala you don't immediately think football, but whatever Antonio's serves up Thursday will help get the gridiron ready.

"Everything from scratch," said Regina Sader-Rubenstein, Antonio's Restaurant, "so come on down, enjoy a good meal and help your community."

It was last month when News 8 first brought you the story of vandals on ATV's tearing up Ansonia's Nolan Field. The cost to fix the field is in the thousands and that's why 22 downtown merchants are taking part in the fundraiser, and donating a portion of profits for field repairs.

In a town where high school football is serious business, the event is highlighting downtown business.

"That is part of the initiative," said Vinnie Scarlata, Economic Development Commission Chairman, "the community outreach and community support that we are hoping to get just can't be beat because people do come out to support football."

Now the field is looking lush and green with some new sod, but the town still needs to come up with some $10,000 to cover the repair costs.

"We are willing to step up to the plate and help our community," said Rubenstein.

For now players are practicing on other fields, but Nolan Field will be ready for the first home game September 21st.