Tomatoes take the cake at Ansonia event

ANSONIA - It doesn't matter if you say to-mayto or to-mahto, residents John and Ann Marie Checkley will invite you to their annual tomato sandwich open house.

On Saturday they welcomed family and friends to a 30th annual tradition: a party featuring their harvest of tomatoes, lots of them.

Derby resident Mary Ann Camilini helpsget the tomatoes ready for slicing.

The Checkleys were happy to show off this nifty gadget, which makes quick work of tomato slicing.

Ready to be placed between slices of toasted bread for sandwiches.

John Checkley, the Checkleys' older son, likes tomatoes and apparently also likes ketchup. His younger brother Joshua, however, said he doesn't care for tomatoes.

One of the centerpieces on the red-covered tables in the Checkleys' backyard.

The family invited Mayor David S. Cassetti, center, to enjoy the tomato tradition. Here he is with, from left, John Checkley, the elder John Checkley, Ann Marie Checkley, and Joshua Checkley.

The Checkleys asked people to bring non-perishable food items to be donated to a local food bank. 


I had a great time at the party. I'm so glad an Ansonia friend called to tell me about it!


Please check out Register photojournalist Peter Hvizdak's photo slideshow of the event.