The East Hartford Gazette

Calano's Celebrate Fifth Anniversary
A story of local enterprise is paying off, and it is all East Hartford. In the winter of 1955-56 Calano's Furniture was but a gleam in the mind's eye of Gordon Calano and his wife, Loretta. In February, just five years ago they opened their doors at 118 Burnside Avenue.

In those five years their little acorn has grown five times as big, causing two moves along Burnside, first to 603 and then, to 669, the old Stop and Shop store. Gordon and Loretta saw to the remodeling of the place, and even this winter they've picked up another hefty hunk of floor space by leasing separate warehouse space in South Windsor.

Now they are celebrating their fifth anniversary.

It is a family affair. Gordon Calano operates as president and treasurer: Loretta is secretary: father James A. Calano is vice president; and brother-in-law Larry Holmes is store manager.

Going back a few years, Gordon Calano was born and raised on Phelps Street. He attended East Hartford schools, graduating from East Hartford High in 1947. After service in Korea with the U.S. Army. he returned to town, worked for the Aircraft for a time, selling furniture in the evenings.

While teaching English and history at the High School, his dream of having his own store ripened, and by 1956 he was ready.

Other areas of interest include the local chapter of the Jaycees of which Gordon is a charter member. He continues this activity currently as a State vice president of the organization. Recently he joined Rotary and is a member of the First Congregational Church.

The Calanos live with their two children. Robin and James. on Sunset Ridge Drive in a home completed this winter.