Rye Lifers is a MyRye.com series that introduces you to people that have spent their lives in Rye – people who have grown up in Rye, worked in Rye, come back to raise their family in Rye. Do you know someone we should profile for Rye Lifers? Tell us.
Today, meet Lori Talento.
MyRye.com: Why are you a Rye “Lifer”?
Talento: I have lived in Rye for 66 years! My father was a Rye “Lifer” since he was 9 years old. He would have been 103 this year. My grandfather, R. Frederick Talento, was the City Clerk of Rye for many years. I moved back to Rye in 2000 after a 20 year hiatus to raise my son who is now 32! I missed living here since my parents and sister were still here. Many of my friends from Rye High School still lived here as well. I wanted my son to receive the best public education, and he attended Milton School (my alma mater) and Rye High School. My best friend Lori Uhle was my first playdate when we were 4 years old. We are neighbors now and both live at the Rye Colony.
Tell us about the street in Rye you grew-up on:
Talento: My father built our house on Hickory Drive where I lived for a while. My parents sold the house 11-12 years ago and moved to the Harbor House where my mom still resides! We had block parties, barbecues with neighbors, and many social gatherings. Us kids played all day and night until the dinner bells rang. The good ‘ol days: doors unlocked, and the neighborhood moms watched out for all the kids running around.
Where in Rye do you live now?
Talento: Since 2000, I have lived at the Rye Colony. I chose to live here as it was the only affordable place being a single mom and all!
Who was your favorite teacher at Rye High School and what year did you graduate?
Talento: I graduated from Rye High School in 1973. My favorite teacher was Miss Bonnie Buckett, our physical education teacher.
Where do you work in Rye and what do you do?
Talento: I am a retired healthcare professional. Since February of 2021, I have helped various Rye families with childcare, pets, and home care situations. I love it!
What in your view are the two or three greatest Rye traditions—current or past?
Talento: I was a volunteer for the Rye Fire department for over 15 years! It was so rewarding, and it was my way to contribute to the community with my time and efforts, especially during the hurricanes! Since the 60s, I have loved the Rye Harrison football games. My father worked the down lines for over 36 years, and then I took over when he retired. That was so much fun! Then, of course, the Halloween window painting that I did as a kid and that my son also did was great.
What about the great Rye institutions—community organizations, shops, restaurants. Which ones are or have been part of the Rye fabric?
Talento: I would say being part of the Rye Fire Department, having brunch celebrations with my Rye High School friends at Ruby’s, and beaching it at the American Yacht Club! My favorite store was the Prep Shop, and the best place for breakfast was and still is Poppy’s.
Thanks Lori!
