Birthday Parade Held for Fran Dambowsky on Monday

Naugatuck, CT - Family, colleagues and friends surprised Fran Dambowsky with a birthday parade on Monday.

The event had been arranged by Crystal Dambowsky Pereira with a Facebook event. Participants assembled at Maple Hill School even before the scheduled 4:00 pm. The convoy rolled out promptly at 4:15 pm.

Naugatuck/Bethwood Patch Mayor Nancy Sasso Janis was invited to be part of the parade and was able to take some photos. The Fire Department came out in force and there also was a Police escort; there were nearly 20 vehicles in the parade. Some of the cars were decorated with signs and balloons in honor of the celebration.

From the event:

"Dad does not know that there will be a parade. He knows that we are zoom meeting and social distancing with family @ 4:10pm. Thank you guys so much for doing this for him. It means a lot!"

When the skies started to darken earlier in the afternoon, Ms. Pereira added this message to the Facebook page: "Fingers crossed weather holds. Remember if you are planning on getting out of your car at all to see Dad, please use social distancing and wear a mask. Can’t wait to see the suprise on his face."

Luckily the weather held for the 4:15pm kick off and Mr. Dambowsky was delighted with the parade in his honor.

After the event, local volunteer Gigi Ramos posted: "It was so GREAT, Thank you for the invite! Your Dad is such a Super Guy!"

On Tuesday morning, Mr. Dambowsky posted his gratitude on his Facebook page:

"Thanks so much to everyone who made my birthday such a special day. Although we are living in a time of social distancing, and must celebrate in non traditional ways, the love I felt was up close, warm and personal. Thank you, thank you, thank you! God Bless you all and STAY SAFE. #NaugyStrong We got This"