Park Slope “When”


park slope, Brooklyn

Originally uploaded by mickey1.

Posted by frank garcia on the Park Slope Message Board:

i lived on 14 st bet 5 and 6 ave

i went to ps 51 and then to manuel training high school

i rember germains dept stop on 5 ave and 15 st

there were 3 bars on 9st 5ave

smittys
owned by a man called screamer smith

next to him was dinkys
owened by a retired cop from the 72 precent named eddy

next to him was the round town
at times they served free snacks

then there was a great stake bar called the dixie traven on 20st 5 ave owned by a man named toddo marino

as a young boy i also raised pigeons

hope to hear from some people that rember this

on the Park Slope Message Board

2,508 Replies to “Park Slope “When””

  1. TO TERRY ANGELO
    yes i did go to school with lory and instead of me eating lunch in the lunch room lory would take me to your dads store and we would watch tv, bewitched, until we had to go back ,your mom was very good to me, i also use to live over regina bakery so when she was working i would go downstairs to talk to her, i was born on 22nd st between 4th and 5th ave then my parents moved to 11th st they bought a house there so i did 7th and 8th grade at st thomas aquinas then my parents sold the house and we came back this way as a matter of fact i think your mom told us about the apartment for rent over regina bakery and we moved there , and yes this site is addicting please tell lory i said hi and yes your mother is missed

  2. Hi Clotilda,

    You mentioned my mother, Vera Lentini, and that you lived on 22nd Street between 4th & 5th Ave. So did we. Why can’t I place you? I’m 55…..how old are you? Do you remember my sisters Susan and Annie? Elaborate a little more to jar my memory. You did mention that you went to school with Michael Gagliardi…….so did I……so I have to know you.

  3. What great memories…

    I was born and raised on 17th st between 3rd & 4th ave. Went to PS 124 and John Jay.

    How many rember trick or treating in the subway?

    Reginas bakery

    the macaroni store on 5th ave between 18th & 19th st

    Chief ..he owned the candy store on 15th and 4 ave…he was in the wheel chair

    oh what about st roccos feast they would parade up the streets carrying Saint Rocco and you pinned money to it.

    Pops…if you couldnt find it on 5th go see Alice or George..19th and 5th.. you actually had to push your way thru the store and hope her dog didnt get your ankles.

    There was no Santa like the one in Germains.. so beatiful…

    Chowmein Sanwiches

    Ernie in Stavenhagens.

    The curtain store downstairs from Germains.

    Ricarridi Brothers for cold cuts.

    Biffs Pool Room

    Lady Fair

    Ables

    Garys Jewlers

    Lincolns on 5th and 15th

    Parker and Megna

    so many good memories …if my late husband was here, he could name every store and peron in park slope …

  4. Whew!
    Someone mentioned “Lady Fair” – I worked there when I was 16, remember David?

    Marie Crispino, my uncle Sal left me his poetry books and yes, he was even honored when he visted Italy, my mother talks about him often. I visted him before he passed. I can’t begin to tell you how many ears he sliced with that sizzor (sp?)

    Thanks Margaret for refreshing my mind on the “Clemente’s” – now I remember. Capo and Pete made me once sing a song for a free Ice Cream Soda. Remember when candy bars were just 10 cents?

    Anthony, I was glad to light the darkened corners of your mind with the Perisi’s.

    Hey Di !!!!! Gotta get together! Deb told me you went to school with my cousin nick. They are the ones, Sentina, who live in Marlboro.

    Sentina, my mother lives on Staten Island. We have to get together and visit her before senility sets in, lol. No, she really is as sharp minded today as when in her 20’s – she talks all the time about our crazy family, who’s who, names, actually, she told me that your grandfather and her grandmother were brother and sister and that’s how we are related. I do remember vividly your mother. She always said hi to me. And jackie! The motorcycle!!! Well, I think this is where I got my desire to ride one some day, thru Jackie. I used to see Jackie once a year at our house, and you know what holiday that was, don’t you. 4th of July with Uncle Nicky!!!! Oh, the fireworks on 21st street was just maddening!!!!!
    We used to cut the clothes line for a piece of rope to burn this way our fire never went out, then blow on it periodically for it to stay alive!

    No longer with us:
    Uncle Nick
    Uncle Sal
    Uncle Vito
    Uncle Joey
    Of course my grandma, Antonina, who used to tell the small trick or treaters on halloween, “GETTA THE HELL OUTA HERE!” LOL
    Chickey Boy
    My father, John Guzzo, I was glad they took you to the “Sunrise Highway” drive-in, (how the hell did I remember that one!!!!!)

    And yes, my mom reminds me all the time we are related to to the Calendrino’s, although I have no clue who they are, but would like to meet them.

    I will surely tell Big Annette you send your regards. She’ll be thrilled!
    I will email you for us to get together and visit my mom for the info on the family you need. She’s even got the photo’s!

    Hi my Deb! Had a freakin’ great time last night, danced my ass off!

    Hey anybody remember the gerel man (sp?) Imagine someone coming to the house today to sell door to door bleach?!!!

    Now on Terry Gagliardi – how old are you – didn’t we hang out together when I was known as “Tina?”

  5. GUZZO,

    I WORKED IN LADY FAIR AS I WROTE ABOVE AND DAVID WAS MY HUSBAND HE WAS THE MANAGER THERE AFTER THAT BIG GUY AND BEFORE TRUDY I BELIEVE. IKNOW THE NAME GUZZO AND I THINK DAVID WAS GOOD FRIENDS WITH A GUZZO IN ST. JOHNS.

    IM LOOKING AT THE TIMES PEOPLE WRITE ON HERE. I AM NOT THE ONLY NUT ADDICTED TO THIS. LOL TERRY

  6. MARIE RUMOLA,

    I THINK I WENT TO SCHOOL WITH MICHAEL RUMOLA IN ST. JOHNS. I THINK I ASKED SOMEONE WAY BACK IM ON HERE SO LONG I CANT REMEMBER WHAT I WROTE. I AM 57 AND GRADUATED IN 64 FROM ST. JOHNS. TERRY

  7. Clotilda,
    Do you remember Antoinette DelPezzo on 22nd st, or my Uncle Carmine? We lived in her house with my cousins the Lentini’s until I was in 3rd grade. Just up the block from you I think. My mother Mary grew up on 22nd St. too. I remember your mother and brothers too – How are they? Did your mom have twin brothers? Do you remember Jimmy and Betty and Mike – they lived two doors down next to the Arancio’s.

    Terry Gagliardi – Of course I remember Rocco’s candy store – although I was too young to cross over 5th avenue to go there often – my parents are always telling stories of the store and all the characters in it. I wrote a week or so ago about when my daughter met a guy at Brookdale Comm. College who had a last name that sounded soooo familiar – Michael Gagliardi. When I asked my mother about the name she of course reminded us of Rocco, Sonny etc. Such a small world that here in NJ 2 “kids” would have a connection all the way back to the neighborhood. I know it floored them. I was glad to see they both got a kick out of it and once the stories started there was no stopping us (just like here).

  8. Hi everyone,
    I haven’t been on the site since Saturday. I’m thrilled to see new friends.
    Maria Elena
    How are you?
    Yesterday, I was with my mom and we were talking about you and your dad. Please say hello for me. He always had such a positive attitude toward life!! I’ll never forget that about him.

    Festina
    Soo glad my cousin got you hooked!
    I hope we get to see you in September.

    Terry Gagliardi,
    I just saw your sister at A&C Superette on Staten Island.
    We got to talk some. You have a wonderful family!

    Diane & Deb.
    How’s the summer going?
    We need to get together!
    Deb. Please send my regards to Charlie.

  9. Terry Angelo, yes I am Terry Ann like you, i didnt know where that came from, Its not all that common. My sister Pat is doing great, we are all out here in Staten Island, my brother Michael and Margie Bird lol, are out in NJ. Their daughter is getting married in November. I sent this site to my brother Anthony, and am going to give it to the rest of them. Pat is a grandmother, Dawn has two boys and lives up state. I work with my sister Claire and brother Anthony so we are all still close. So nice to hear from you, stay well

    Anthony Oliva, of course I remember you and your family. I went to school with Paulie, I am so sorry about Jeanie, that is horrible. Believe it or not I even remember your mom, when you guys lived on 5th ave. my mom used to bring me there all the time. Then when your sisters lived up stairs from aunt milly we always hung out in the yard. Please send them all my best.

    Nilda, I am not surprised how great your kids are doing, you were always a wonderful mother. My cousin Marie is doing great, she is living in NJ, and has an adorable grandson. We just lost uncle Chi Chi, but Aunt Tessie is going ok, he was sick for a long time. My cousin Micky is still as adorable as ever. Glad life is treating you well, I will pass on this web site to my family, it is so nice to see such familiar faces. hugs terry

    and thank you, my parents were great and we all miss them terribly, but thank god for all the good memories.

  10. Hello All,
    Does anyone know Paul Cruz he lived on 5th Ave & 22nd Street, in the apt. house on the corner. He went to I.S.88- 1967/1969.

  11. hola: Marie Panetta Rumola; glad to see you on the site i enjoyed your company during yur last visit. give my regards to the family.

    today as i was taking my daily walk to and from Prospect Park i ran into Marie Giamboi, she recognized me immediately, first words out of her mouth, “U did my hair.” Still looks the same, and she still lives on 21st street. i told about the site but she, for now, does not have a computer. we had a nice chat. she looks good.

    it’s amazing since i found out about the site its like we, my walking friends and i, are meeting old timers. the other day we s aw, in a small cafe, the owner of formans, they are both still alive. the same day i saw John DiVillio and wife in the same cafe. it’s unbelievable.

    Anthony Oliva: thank you for those kind words, u must know that the Oliva’s are very special to me. i couldn’t get over Johnathan, he looks so much like your father. his height, weight, color hair, etc, etc. wendy will be calling you soon, she’s busy with house, baby and job. luv u.

    peace and blessing to all

  12. Margaret

    Bravo! You have a great memory! I, on the other hand have spent half a lifetime looking for my shoes, and car keys. You’re correct about the kid named John. I remember him because of an incident which caused me to get in trouble with Sr St William. I remember John asking if he could borrow a sheet of paper, I obliged, and watched as he proceeded to fold it in half, then blow his nose into it. I started to laugh and Sr. asked what was so funny. How could I explain? It was one of those things you just had to see. It’s curious how we remember people who we knew only briefly, but forget others. I can understand why I’d remember a little girl with banana curls who danced on St Patrick’s Day, or a boy who blew his nose into a sheet of loose leaf, but why or how I remembered a boy (Kenneth) whose name I haven’t heard since the fourth grade is beyond me.

    With regards to the graduation parties, the only one I clearly recall going to was Marie’s. I think it was in a social club on Fifth. I don’t remember much about it except for what I mentioned in my earlier post, getting into a scuffle on the way home, and ruining my new suit.

    Now, when it comes to things like throwing snowballs at the girls, all I will say is “Your Honor, to the best of my recollection I was home sick that day”. And it was 22nd St not 17th.

    An earlier poster listed all of her teachers at St John’s. I tried to do the same. The first two grades were just a blur. All I could remember was that they were nuns. I got to the third grade and things began to clear up, and I’m thinking it was nun, it was Sister ….Sister….Sister Monica…..Sister Monica Lewinsky…..yeah that’s it, Sister Monica Lewinsky. For a brief second I thought I was having a stroke. How could it be Sr Monica Lewinsky? That’s impossible. Then the panic passed and it came to me. Sister Helen Monica. Sister Helen Monica who, as I remember, used to tell us how lucky we were to have pens and paper, and how “in her day” if you went to movies, you had to know how to read. She also once told a story (probably on a “release time” Wed.) about a boy who ate his pretzel and drank his milk so fast that it turned to concrete in his stomach. They had to rush him to the hospital where he later died . I don’t know how much of her story was true, but needless to say whenever I have a soft pretzel I think of that boy, and I chew real slowly.

    Margaret

    If you remember the names of our First, Second and Fifth grade teachers I’d appreciate you posting them. Also, give those “sisters” I mentioned earlier a second thought.

    Talk to you later, now it’s back to the 21st Century

    Brian

  13. hi to everyone, first i would like to say that thanks to this site i layed awake all night thinking about all of these wonderful memories and as we know a good nights sleep dont come easy these days, but my brain wouldnt shut up lol,
    TO DIANE A yes iam boobsies daughter
    TO LOUISE LENTINI your mom is great if i see her shopping and ask her if she wants a ride home she sez no ill walk, but your older than me im 46 i went to st johns with lori angelo, michael scharelli, gina pugliese, helen hayes, john carter, frankie tombasco, michael gerardi, john oliver, but maybe you knew of my cousins edward frustaci, louis frustaci, james petrosino, marie petrosino. ok when you talk to your mom just tell her that im boobsies daughter my name is clotilda but your mom knows me as tilly a nickname which i dont like but what can i do and also i have a cousin named clotilda and they call her tilly but her dad was john vola they lived over camberlangos for years and the other daughter maria passed away at 36 on 9-11 in the world trade center and terry gagliardi is my sister inlaw
    TO DEBBIE A yes my mother had twin brothers johnny and joey and the betty i remember was betty that lived next door to egla sanchez and betty worked for the eye doctor i think they where related i think the last name was marreli and i remember the arancio’s , isoli’s,

  14. Margarette,
    Yes that was me getting my face slapped in 7th grade. I grew up on 22nd st between 6th and 7th Ave.
    Anthony Oliva, so sorry about Jeanie. I remember your dad when he worked at Parker and Megna. Acyually I know your whole family, you guys lived in my Uncle Rocco’s house. Rocco died in June of 1994, my son Peter (16) died 6 months later. My Mom and Dad, Jeanette and Sonny Gags passed away in 2003 and 2004, 2 months apart.
    Lentini Twins-you were both good friends with my sisters, Claire and Pat.
    My brother Michael lives in Old Bridge, NJ and his daughter is getting married in November.
    Grace worked with my wife at a law firm on Wall St.
    I graduated from St. John’s in 1967.
    I remember Judy Cavallo very well and most of the kids I went to grammer school with.
    I hung out on 22 nd and 7th Ave
    Geez what memories.
    Anyway, my sister Terry Ann sent me this link and I have been overcome with memories.
    Matty Gaeta (RIP) was one of my closest friends as was Anthony Perotta, Ritchie Volpe, Kenny Tanzillo, etc, etc
    Father Fred was in charge of us alta boys..He was killed some years ago.
    Margarette Dritto..I remember you quite well, my brother pulled your hair and they found a tumor in your brain as a result.
    I saw Alex Narducci and his wife Margarette last year.
    This is a remarable site

    Anthony G

  15. Clotida, Hello,
    You mentioned you went to school with a John Oliver, do you mean John Oliva, my younger brother who passed away in 1971?
    and which Gagliardi brother did you marry? Anthony or Micheal- who ever tell him I said hello….

  16. Clotida, I realize now you said you were Terry’s sister in law I guess she married your brother…but let me know about John

  17. TO ANTHONY OLIVA
    right terry married my youngest brother anthony who is your brother paulies age, my brother anthony was uncle rocco’s sidekick,and yes i went to school with your brother john i could remember as a child him being sick he used to also come down 22nd st 4th and 5th where i lived and alan taglianetti loved him he used to play football with us i was a tomboy seeing i had 4 brothers and when things went bad for john they told us as children because we were very impressionable that your brother got hit in the neck with a footballand that is how he got sick but when he passed away you hear adults talking and then you hear the truth, your mom was a very nice person and your dad as a matter of fact your whole family are very nice people my mother is boobsie who i think eveyone knows

  18. Clotilda,

    I just spoke to my mom who said you’re pretty and sweet. Thanks for offering her rides………she’s very independent (thank God!)

    Hopefully, we’ll all get to see each other soon.

  19. TO EVERYONE,
    does anyone remember sherry she lived over smolens bar on 22nd and 5th how about my dear little friend tommy tinker(junie deleo’s) brother he used to put the fox tails on his bike and carry a radio i see him occcasionally in the nieghborhood he visits his brother on prospect ave,he still looks the same as 30 years ago,then there was a man from 21st named frankie basalone or something like that and when he came to 22nd st my mother used to tell us to not bother him he used to scream and yell always had a cigarette in his mouth and than after screaming whatever it was he was screaming about then he would just go back home.

  20. Cotilda,
    Thats Frankie Johnny Basalone, Hung out in Negi’s bar on 22 nd and 5th. He use to yell and scream at the buses. One day he was hit by one and killed

  21. HEY,

    I JUST MENTIONED FRANKY BASALONE. HE LIVED ON MY BLOCK 20TH STREET RIGHT NEXT TO THE SIDE OF THE GROCERY STORE. HE WOULD YELL AND SCREAM DOWN THE BLOCK AND THAN BUY ALL OF US KIDS ICE CREAM. MY DAD SAID HE WAS HURT IN THE WAR. WHEN I WAS A KID THEY WOULD SAY HE WAS SELL SHOCKED. LOL SKINNY MAN GRAY HAIR CRAZY AS HELL AND HE HAD THIS BIG FAT GIRLFRIEND. I REMEMBER HIS HOUSE WAS A DISASTER UNTIL HE DIED AND IT WAS SOLD TO ZOEY AND HER FAMILY AND THEY FIXED IT UP, HER DAUGHTERS NAME WAS MICHELE. LORI MY SISTER WAS FRIENDS WITH THE NEW PEOPLE WHO BOUGHT THE HOUSE.

    HE SURE WAS FRIGHTENING AS A KID TO ME BUT WE STILL ATE THE ICECREAM HE BOUGHT FROM MIKE THE ICECREAM MAN.

    TERRY ANGELO

  22. yes that was frankie basalone and he wore a white hankerchef around his neck
    ANTHONY GAGLIARDI so nice to see you here david and i hope all is going well for you and family, this site is a great way to pass some time terry said she was amazed reading all this me to ive even got my mother reading this on her computer she also wants to write something but she not sure how to so tomorrow i will go to her house to show her lol
    TERRY ANGELO ive never really left your fathers store i go to alberto hair fair for my haircut since hes been there actually i started going to alberto when i was 13 when he worked on 9th street and he had a long shag haircut, albert is a great guy

  23. ANTHONY G,

    HOW ARE YOU? I SEE KENNY TANZILLO AND DONNA REITZ AND THEIR KIDS IN CHURCH EVERY SUNDAY AT 9;30 MASS. ACROSS FROM THEM IS JOEY RAGO AND DONNA. IN FRONT OF ME IS ANNETTE, FILOMENA BISCUTTI MY MOMS FRIEND FROM 21ST STREETS DAUGHTER. WHEN I MOVED TO S.I. I HATED IT NOW I FEEL BETTER SEEING MY FRIENDS FROM BKLYN ONCE IN AWHILE… ANNAMARIE SHANNON LIVES NOT TOO FAR FROM ME. WE MEET QUITE OFTEN WITH MARGRET DRITTO AND HER SISTERS. I TOLD TERRY ANN TO GIVE THE BIRDS MY LOVE AND ALL YO GAGLIARDIS THAT I HAVE FOND MEMORIES OF AS I WROTE TO TERRY ABOVE. LOVE TERRY ANGELO

  24. CLOTILDA,

    MARGSRET DRITTO WAS AT MY HOUSE AND SAID SHE JUS TCAME FROM ALBERTOS. SHE ALSO GETS HER HAIRCUT THERE FOR YEARS. I USED TO GO TO HIM ALSO. HE IS THERE FOREVER. TERRY

    I TOLD LORI TO GET BACK ON AND TOLD HER YOU WERE ON SHE WAS SO EXCITED. SHE IS SO BUSY WITH HER THREE BOYS,

  25. LOUISE LENTINI
    thank you for the nice words ,your mother is another one thats gonna have a special place in heaven so independent when your dad was alive i would practicaly beg her to do something for her but no she did it all, you know i dont even know if she nows that i moved i was raised 22nd 4th and 5th but my married life i lived 22nd 6th and 7th across the street from sonny and jeanette gagliardi and about 3 years ago we bought a house in windsor terrace but im still basically in the neighborhood .and your mom knows i dont want to bad mouth anyone because i like everyone but her former next door nieghbor and i did not get along my daughter used to hang out with her daughter and we where like oil and water and i never appreciated the fact that the son used to bounce the basketball knowing your dad was sick and i heard the mother actually told the kid you could keep bouncing the ball its our property but your mom told me before they moved things where ok but im sorry they where not my kind of people well i deffinetly believe in karma what goes around comes around

  26. TERRY ANGELO
    i dont know margret dritto but i knew her mom nice lady and her dad philly great guy we miss them i also miss my friend josephine venturelli from 21st i was so upset when she moved to new jersey we had spoke a few times on the phone then she would come to brooklyn to go to the doctors i would see her and feel so bad that she moved then she passed away great friend.can you tell lori i think about the times we used to go to michael sharellis house and have plays in the back yard michael was always so creative so shes has 3 boys what are there ages i have 1 child shes gonna be 24 in september and she still lives home you know what they say theres no place like home

  27. AnthonyG

    Wow! The story about “Sr J” slapping you in the seventh grade is what prompted me to make my first post. I’m sure I didn’t tell you at the time but I remember thinking to myself “wow this kid is tough”.

    Brian M

  28. Hey- Anthony Gagliardi, how are you. Long time no see. Hope you doing well.
    Your right Farnkie Basalone was hit by a bus and killed. He always stood in front of them and yelled then one day that was it… It’s good to see you on here.

    Clotilda,
    Yes I remember Boobsie, and John loved to play football, he had a lot of heart. I used to take him to bayridge to play on Bobbie Corbetts team. Bobbie created the John Oliva Award and every year for I don’t know how long he would give that award to the kid who had the most heart like John did, not the best player but the one who tried the most. Bobby told me he just stopped doing it like two years ago. All this time and he still gave it. Corbett was so good about that.
    John died of a rare cancer called soft tissue sarcoma. What a beautiful kid he was. thanks for telling me that story about him.

  29. Does anyone remember- Jimmy Hamburger, the guy with the crossed eyes that delivered laundry out of Andy’s Laudramat just off 20th street and 5th?

  30. CLOTILDA,

    I WROTE YOU BACK AND IT IS NOT COMING UP I HAVE THIS PROBLEM EVERY SO OFTEN AND THAN IT COMES ON THE SITE 3 TIMES. IM GOING TO TRY AGAIN. TERRY

  31. Anthony Gags,
    I didn’t read up far enough to see your first entry, I’m so sorry to hear about your son. I guess we share the same kind of tragedys. Your Uncle Rocco was good to my sisters and your Mother and Father were wonderful to my Mother and my whole family. Your Dad was a power house of a person. Nobody messed with him when we hung out at the candy store when he was on duty there. If He said be quiet we got quiet. Your Dad always took the time to talk to me.
    Its great to hear from you.

  32. CLOTILDA,

    IM RRYING AGAIN……..LORI HAS THREE BOYS AS I SAID. JOEY 14YRS OLD, MICHAEL 11YRS OLD AND MARIO THE LITTLE RIP 7 YRS OLD I THINK. I CANT KEEP UP. I ONLY HAD 2 CHILDREN 12 YRS APART. ONE IS MARRIED WITH A ONE CHILD HE IS 32 AND JONATHAN MY YOUNG ONE IS 20 AND IN COLLEGE IN POUGHKEEPSIE. KIDS DONT LEAVE HOME ANY LONGER . MY MICHAEL DID NOT GET MARRIED UNTIL HE WAS 28. IT IS A DIFFERENT GENERATION BUT I DONT CARE I LOVE WHEN MY KIDS ARE HOME EVEN WHEN THEY AGGRAVATE ME. LOL TERRY

  33. Anthony Gags, one more thing.

    Thanks for mentioning Matty, he died in 2001, as you know he married my sister Jeanne- They have two beautiful daughters- Jillian and Jessica 24 and 22 years old- The entire town of Middletown NJ showed up at Jeanne’s wake. We are all so devestated- So many people from Brooklyn came including Lucia and Deetzie, Tony Perrotta and his wife. Nilda Acevado, Carol Miele, Charlie and Connie Miele’s daugther who we haven’t seen in 40 years, and Thersa and Rosa Galino.
    I have a son Jon whose 24 years old and he’s on wall street. We live on Long Island on the North Shore near Great Neck. Lucia gave me this link and I’ve been overcome by the memories like yourself..

  34. Anthony O
    As you mentioned, we go way back…I met Jeannie and Matty some years ago at a local chinese restaurant when they were christening one od their children, I’m sure you and the rest of the clan were there.
    Many years pass, and it can be quite heartwrenching to find a site like this that brings us all back to such happy moments. BTW “Shopping Bag” Connie Meile was always at our house
    Yes, Sonny Gags was a great man, I miss him dearly.
    My son Mark just turned 27 last Sunday
    Hey Brian M…many years
    Tell Jamesy I send my regards.
    Keep in touch

  35. In my 37+ years I have never read anything so profound as the material on this site. Makes you think if “neighborhoods” exist anymore. This stuff is classic.

    More commentary to follow.

  36. By the way — Terry Angelo Sherman I wish I had a dollar for every post you put up.

  37. Hola: it’s 2:55 a.m. and can’t sleep, in bed my mind turns to this site. so here i am on the computer.

    Rocco jr. i don’t know if you remember me, but i remember you and your sister. I knew your parents, i did your mothers hair, your father was the best; to me he had many a many good quallities. in answer to your question if any “neighborhoods” exists. i still live on 17st. bet. 3 and 4th avenue, and yes we do get together and share our daily experiences and our lifes experiences on “the stoop'” the crowd of 149 17th BBQ almost every sunday and their family and friends get together, u know what they say “a family that eats together stays together.” We all watch over each others children. As a matter of fact, donna maxil who has written her comments on this blog has organized an “Old Timers Block Party” on 17th Street, it is on Aug. 2; she has been able to contact many people who lived on 17th street. All who write on this site are welcomed to come. it was a pleasure reading your comments rocco.

    Anthony Oliva: My heart sank a little bit when i saw John’s name as one of Tillys friends. I am so glad that he is remembered by his friends. He was such a smart and good looking boy. i remember one of his many abilities was doing puzzles, the larger the puzzle and the smaller the pieces the more he enjoyed doing it.

    Frank Mauriello: i lived across the street above Florie and Tony Oliva; my family moved into the area when i was 10 yrs old and now i am proud to say i am 62 yrs young. I remember your mother mostly, she always greeted me warmly when i entered the shoppe. She was a kind and gentle person. It reminded me of one of Jesus’ commandments, love your neighbor as you love your self and your mom exemplied love. when ever i pass that street i remember your mother fondly.

    Ruth Vivenzio: i remember you, i got so excited when i saw your entry. How is your daughter and your sister Phyliss? I remember your Mom, she was such an elegant and very pretty woman, mucho class and style.

    Does anyone remember playing double dutch? One evening this summer the children on the block wanted to play double dutch, they were trying to figure out how to jump in, so out comes the little girl in me and to my amazement i was able to jump double dutch, the children and us adults had much fun that evening.

    i remember making a rope out of rubber bands, and then the rope was put around our ankles, 2 people one on each end, so it was like 2 ropes united into one, and the third person would hop in and jump trying not to make the two ropes gumble up. (i hope this makes sense) does anyone remember that?

    does anyone remember a guy named, i believe, Louie, he lived or lives on 22nd street above the old gas/electric company. i used to see him standing by St. Anna’s club when i passed by. last i spoke and saw him he told me he was sick. (He was a little thick but not heavy) blondish hair, and nice looking. it was always nice seeing him, he was a very pleasant person.

    Anthony Gag; it was delightful to see you on this site. i have many a good memories of your parents. They were so giving of themselves. i remember when i was having a problem with a certain individual, your father said, “They know you don’t have a husband, he was ready to come to my aid.” A real gentleman, your mother was a gem, also very giving. i rember how welcoming she was with me and my children, i was not only their hairdresser i was their friend. The Gagliardi family was very warm, i remember your grandma and grandpa i believe they lived up 21st, bet. 5 and 6th ave, aunt caroline down 22nd street, tessie and chi chi, sorry to hear about his demise, your grandparents taught their family well. My friend maryann perpinan i believe knows your mother in law danny.

    this site is so marvelous, it brings back many a good memories. many ask me why don’t u move out, but you know it feels good and it feels safe. i am not saying i will never move out but for now it feels good here.

    Terry Angelo Sherman: i don’t seem to remember you but God has given u the gift of memory, but i do remember your aunt bobbie ann and Lorretta; they were 2 beauties i loved their sassyness, great quality. i also remember your uncle gigsy and jean. he played a trick on me once and had us all laughing. maybe next time i will share. this is getting too long. it’s now 3:49 a.m.; i need to get some shut eye, i have a busy schedule tomorrow.

    peace and blessings to all.

  38. Terry Sherman –
    Talk about a small world. Tell David Hi for me. God! How I loved the clothes they sold.
    Do you remember the pizzeria next door to Lady Fair? Well, that was owned by my cousin Jackie Carajuilo who had three sisters named Margarite (margaret), and the twins Rosa and Maria.

    Did anybody go to Sunset Park Pool in the 40’s. I remember walking there passing the Jackie Gleason Bus terminal.

    How about a kid named Mikey, who, if you needed a bicycle, he was the one to go to for 25.00 or so.

    Then we used go to the lumber yard on 23rd street to get some wood to make go carts. Can’t imagine where the axles and wheels used to come from, didn’t ask any questions, they just showed up. Then ride the go cart down from 4th ave hill onto 3rd ave steering it with the rope attached to the wheels. So fun! And this was after shooting the water from the corner johnny pump with the opened can onto Scarpaci’s funeral Home, and washing cars as they waited for the green light on the corner.

    We were never bored back then like the kids today. If “you called” for someone to come out to play and they couldn’t, you just used your imagination to play alone, like tying the jump rope to a fence, holding the other end in your hand, and jumping it alone.

    The kids today have so many material things, then complain “they are bored.” We were lucky.

    The mom’s used to put the kids to bed, then “sit outside” on folding chairs to shoot the breeze for hours. Then before this, we’d just play out on the street, “cocolevio” (sp?), “red light green light,” “stick ball,” “kings,” “johnny on the pony,” “corkies,” (remember filling the cork tops with melted crayon) to make a beautiful multi-colored cork to ride the street across the board you made?

    How about hopscotch? God forbid you stepped in the line! We used to have fun with just a card board box, going inside it and rolling down the street in it.

    That was the brooklyn way. I am proud and honored to have experienced it.

    Annie – going to the reunion with you guys sounds like a plan to me. Count me in.

    Festina

  39. Hello

    Terry Im sure Michael Rumola is the cousin of my husband.

    My husband is Larry Rumola who was from 11st between 4&5 .

    How many remeber Raes candy store on 17th and 4th.. how dirty it was. Her cats all over the counter .. she made good egg creams in there .

    How about on 20th and 4th .. Ann & Ralph DeSocios store. she made some good meatball heros for lunch.

    Molly and Al on 17th and 4th the candy store next to Supreme Memorial.. i remeber the penny candys but i also remeber Molly being so mean.

  40. GUZZO,

    SO MANY FOND MEMORIES OF LADY FAIR. THOSE OLD LADIES WHO PROBABLY WERE NOT LD AT THE TIME BUT WE WERE SO YOUNG. MARGARITE, DID SHE LIVE ON 19TH STEET OFF OF 5TH OR 17TH STREET OFF OF 5TH. IF SO I REMEMBER HER.

    DAVID PASSED AWAY 1999. I MUST SAY NOT BECAUSE HE WAS MY HUSBAND BUT HE REALLY WAS A GOOD LOOKING GUY. EVEN AS A YOUNG KID IN ST JOHNS ALWAYS WELL DRESSED. MY ONE SON RESEMBLES HIM BUT HE HAS LITE HAIR THE OTHER ON I THINK I GOT THE WRONG BABY FROM METHODIST. LOL

    TERRY

  41. HI NILDA

    It’s been so many years!!! Remember when we went on the cruise = told everyone that I brought my own beautician. We had a good time. When we had to go out, Loretta and I would say “call Nilda” to do our hair. Well Loretta has passed away and for me I’m living in Florida again for the past 21 years. I’m in Fort Lauderdale.
    I just go off the phone with my brother Ralphie and he says “Hi”. I have very good memories of you and I’m so glad to hear from you. Brothers Donnie and Ralphie still live in Staten Island and Ralphie is going to be moving to St Pete., Florida in the near future.
    We are planning a reunion cruise in October. Terry Sherman is coming. The cruise is open to anyone that wants to come!!!!
    By the way, I’m bringing my own beautician, my daughter Donna is one and she is coming on the cruise!!!!! ha ha
    Love Bobby Ann

  42. HEY ROCCO,

    ARE YOU ROCCO’S SON I BET YOU ARE YOU HAVE A SENSE OF HUMOR JUST LIKE HE DID. YEAH I HAVE A GOOD MEMORY FOR THIS SITE AND IM ADDICTED. LOOKS LIKE I DONT HAVE A LIFE. IM IN THE MIDDLE OF DOING MY SONS COLLEGE PAPERS AND GOT DISTRACTED AND HAD TO CHECK IN.

    I REMEMBER SO MUCH BECAUSE WE DID NOT HAVE ANYTHING MATERIAL WISE. WE WERE ALL POOR BUT PROBABLY DID NOT KNOW IT UNTIL WE GOT OLDER. I LOVED MY LIFE GROWING UP ON 20TH STREET. ROCCO FRIGHTENED THE HELL AT OF ME I THINK I USED TO DRINK MY SODAS IN 2 SECONDS. HE WAS A PISSA.

    ANYWAY I REMEMBER ALOT BUT LIKE I SAID ABOVE WAY ABOVE…I FORGET MY CELL PHONE ALL THE TIME AND ALWAYS FORGETTING SOMETHING. OR HOW ABOUT MY KIDS SAYNG WHAT I SAID TO MY MOM ….YOU ALREADY TOLD US THAT YOU ARE REPEATING YOURSELF. TOO BAD…..YOU YOUNGER ONES WIL DO THE SAME. LOVE TERRY

  43. NILDA,

    I REMEMBER BUT I COULD NOT DO IT FOR THE LIFE OF ME. WASN’T IT CALLED CHINESE JUMP ROPE. OH EXCUSE ME NOT SUPPOSE TO SAY CHINESE NOW HOW ABOUT ASIAN JUMP ROPE.. LOL TERRY

  44. NILDA,

    DO YOU REMEMBER JEANETTE DEPINTO. SHE LIVES I THINK ON YOUR BLOCK. SHE ALSO DID HAIR. TERRY

  45. Hey Rocco Jr. How is your sister, and your Mom. I remember you very well you guys were young when we lived over you.. Your right this is very profound.

  46. Clotilda – do I get points for guessing you were boopsie’s daughter or what?! I’m Vera Lentini’s (and Annie, Louise and Susan’s) cousin and Debby A is my sister. We all lived at 220 22nd Street in my grandmother Antoinette’s house. I was and still am very good friends with the Arancio girls. Their Mom just passed away – very sad. I remember your brothers, Frankie Boy, Dominick and Anthony, and, of course, your Mom and your uncles. I do remember you being a tom boy! I always remember you and your brothers being really clean – always had baby powder on! I do remember Sherry from above Smolens Bar – actually, I remember her mother always calling her out the window -SHHAAARRRREEEEEE! She very tall with a tan complexion. Do you remember Albert and Anthony Renaldis – they lived next door to the post – their grandfather (who we called frog face) was always sitting on the stoop – never smiled. Their aunts (Elvira and Angie) used to work at D’amico’s.

    Do you keep in touch with Denise or Lisa Cresci. Eugene, Celia and Eugene, Jr. are all gone now. My family has been friends with the Cresci’s for a bazillion years. Do you remember Chickie and Dennis from the block?

    Nice to see you on this site and thank you for watching out for Vera – she is one in a million.

    Does anyone know the Venturelli’s from 21st Street – Phil and my mother went to school together in the 40’s and 50’s. His son married a girl named “Itscha” Kass who lived on 5th Avenue between 22nd and 23rd. I used to work with her sister, Diana Kass. I think they went to OLC on 25th Street.

    Love and hi to Annie, Louise, Susan, Debby and Fes…..I’m so gonna get fired!

  47. This is an amazing website, I’ve tried to explain to people how special it was to grow up in park slope over the years but if you didn’t live there you just don’t get it.

    My father was Rocco who owned the candy store between 21st and 22nd and 5th ave. I grew up on 22nd street between 6th and 7th.

    I share many of your memories and it was great to read about all the familiar places and people in the neighborhood.

    Life seemed some much simpiler then!

    It’s great to read about my dad who i miss everyday and i’m so happy that so many people remember him fondly. One thing that I miss about him most is that no matter what was happening he could always make you see the good side and feel better. I always felt safe when he was around. Wish i had him here now!

    My aunt jeanette and uncle sonny who lived down the block were also very special to me, I miss them so much!. Aunt Jeanette was such a good person and always gave the best advice. She would always be there to listen sort of like her daughter Pat. They are alot alike.

    My uncle Sonny was not just an uncle but also a friend. I could talk to him about anything and loved hearing his stories!

    I remember growing up with my cousins terri and Cara who were a little older than me, I always looked up to them.

    All of my good memories are of 22nd street and growing up with my family close by. I remember the candy store, the bottle cap gang. Egg creams and so many great memories of that store growing up there!

    I went to st’ John’s and remember walking to the store in the morning and then going to school. I couldn’t wait until school was over to get back to the candy store. I remember helping to put the Sunday paper together and the juke box and the pinball machines in the back.

    I remember learning all the words to billy don’t be a hero and the night chicago died from that juke box when I was a kid.

    All the stores you mentioned and shopping with my mom on fith ave.

    White Eagle still has the best food! The hot dogs are amazing!

    Anthony Oliva I remember you and your family well, all of you were part of my family living on 22nd street! I was very sorry to hear about Jeanne. I remember all those summers together in the pool in the back yard. Sun bathing with your sisters with the baby oil, the days before sunscreen, and your brother paulie. How is the rest of your family?

    Does anyone remember Melody Lanes bowling alley? My brother and I were on a team there and the 72nd precinct baseball league. I remember going to watch my brother play games in prospect park.

    So many good memories everyone watching out for each other in the neighborhood.

    Does anyone remember the fourth of July when my dad would nearly blow up the whole block with all the fireworks? I miss those parties.

    What about the Christmas parties they would throw for the kids in the neighborhood at Jolly Fellows. I remember wrapping all those toys.

    Luca and Deitzie I remember your house in Pennsylvania it was so much fun! I remember the time we saw the bear in the back yard and one time my brother and I went and Paulie Oliva came with us and walking around the circle in the dark with flashlights and scaring ourselves silly. Thanks for the memories.

    I remember allan taglinetti taking my brother and I to the museum of natural history one day. He lived in an apartment in my house for awhile and was such a nice person. He was great to me and my brother and I hope he is doing well. If anyone is still in touch with him please let him know I said so.

    Thanks again for all the memories its great to know that so many people share mine and also think that growing up in park slope was the best!

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