Music Festival To Honor Ben Callahan

By Jack Kramer, Correspondent

BRANFORD, CT – A music festival to honor Ben Callahan, the 10-year-old boy who died in July after drowning in the Branford River, will be held in October.

The event is being called “Benstock,” and is being advertised as a “music festival in honor of Ben’s love for life and music.”

It will be held on Oct. 7th at Nuzzo’s Farm, on 736 East Main Street in Branford.

All proceeds/donations will go to the Ben Callahan Foundation, which has been set up by Ben’s family to fund charitable endeavors in the community.

A Facebook page promoting the event says there will be a line up of local bands, food trucks, vendors, and more.

One of the organizers of the events is Cayla Florio, who has this to say about Benstock.

“Tony and Audra Nuzzo wanted to do something special for Ben and his family. Tony (who plays in the band Hitlist) also shares a love for music. Audra owns Nuzzo's Farm and she was generous enough to offer her land for this event.

“He called my dad, fuzzy Florio, and asked for our help with planning it. Shortly after, my dad and I thought of the idea to have a music festival. We wanted to do something that would both honor Ben's love for life and music. It was also important to us that it was something his family would enjoy too. That is how Benstock was born!”

Cayla said since the event is being held on private property, no alcohol is allowed and that people should bring blankets and chairs.

She added: “A HUGE thank you to the businesses, people, Nuzzo's Farm, and the entire community for making this all possible. We have received so many generous donations, people volunteering their time, offering their services and so much more.

“While planning this event, it allowed me to realize what a great community Branford is. I am truly grateful for every single person reaching out to me wanting to help in any way that they can. Ben's heart lives on within each and every one of us and I see more of that everyday.”

Those interested in volunteering or donating services, supplies, time and help should contact caylaflorio15@gmail.com