Wilton has been moved by the story of beloved school bus driver, Vincent “Vinny” Callanan, who drove bus #28 for 10 years until he resigned this past week. There’s been an outpouring of wishes on GOOD Morning Wilton‘s Facebook page and elsewhere on social media.
In addition, a sendoff celebration is in the works. Anyone interested in helping to throw a retirement party, please email marie@publicnotions.com with the subject line: “Vinny.”
Vinny’s wife, Una, wrote a letter to Wilton, and asked GMW to publish it.
Wilton, a Community with a Heart of Gold
A letter of thanks to the people of Wilton:
My husband, Vinny Callanan, drives school bus #28 for the Wilton School district.
On Jan. 9, with unexpected snow covering icy roads, Vinny’s bus skidded and bumped into a tree. It was a minor accident. Initially, the bus company said the accident was unpreventable. However, later that day Vinny was suspended, pending an investigation. Vinny, who prides himself on his safety record, reliability and punctuality, was crushed. Vinny has been driving a bus for 45 years without an accident, the last 10 years for Wilton School District.
The next day, when Vinny was not driving the bus, parents expressed concern and the word got out. Postings on social media told the story of Vinny’s accident and suspension. Facebook posting, postings on Good Morning Wilton, and a petition to “get Vinny back” mobilized the community.
It seemed like hundreds of messages were sent by Wilton parents to the School District, and to us. The outpouring of concern was not just from the parents who see Vinny every day. There were messages from parents whose children are now in college, reciting the positive experiences on “Vinny’s bus 28.”
It worked. Vinny got a call to return to work the next day.
The amazing outpouring of support and genuine affection from the community has touched us deeply. We are overwhelmed and humbled by the kindness, thoughtfulness and generosity of so many people. When I was growing up in Ireland, I heard people say that the streets in the USA were paved with gold. Well, the streets may not be paved with gold, but gold is in the hearts of the people who live here. The people of Wilton have hearts of gold.
From the bottom of our very humble hearts, Vinny and I thank you so very much,
Una Callanan
Several people sent wishes and commented on our Facebook post about Vinny’s resignation. Among the messages were:
Lisa Rita Sallese: “Awwww – Vinny made us smile every day! He’ll be missed!”
Selmin Cicek: Vinny is one of the things we miss most about Wilton! His smiling face and cheerful conversation was something I looked forward to each morning. My kids adore him and still speak of him often. Best wishes for the next phase in your life, Vinny….enjoy every minute! Eli and Ari send big hugs from Chicago.”
Beth Purvis: Vinny – you are the best! My kids love you. Wishing you much happiness in your retirement. Look forward to seeing you around town and on the sidelines at your grandchildren’s sporting events. Enjoy!!
Clare Mof Rainone: We miss you already Vinny. Enjoy your retirement. You deserve it. Thanks for making Anna’s start in kindergarten great. The 1st day she came home she said the bus ride was the best part! Hope to see you soon for some scones!
Jennifer Acerra-Markey: When my two older children arrived home today the first thing they said was how sad it is that Vinny wouldn’t be driving their little brother to school next year. We are very lucky to have had Vinny the last four years. Best wishes to Vinny and a huge thank you as well for always looking out for our girls, always greeting them and I with a smile each day and for giving me peace of mind every day that my children would travel to and from school safely! You will be missed by all. Hope to see you around Wilton enjoying the next chapter of your life Vinny!