Printed in the Spfrit of the Mid-Town Journal and Dedicated to Preserving the Pride; Integrity, Tradition and Memories of our Beloved West End

VOLUME 15, NO.4 DECEMBER, 1999

RUTH ROMAN- 1949 Happy Holidays

and

Millennium

to· all

Our Friends

WE'RE LOOKING FOR YOUR LETTERS! .I I" -- - ~ .... The West Ender_ Staff is encouraging all our readers· to contini.J( . ~ ~~~-~~II!MhR1atm1Jn pppearliig _in "c_bi:iinj1itm" alang-witli ~irk. Daugla.s . a1:ur~rth_ur ~~ .i!J 19'!9~ . stmding us their We&t End thoughts and memories when sending in The movie was released by United Artists Corporation, was produced by Stanley Kramer and direct~d their subscription renewals. - · by Mark Robson. Marilyn Maxwell co-starred in the movie. ;, We have found this past year that many of our readers have just . • ·· . Photo court~'sy: · Shirl~y.Flaxman, Hyde Parle, MA sent in the donation check and no letter attached. We hope you will revert to sending in a West End story or memory, with or without a. Actress · Ruth~ Roman Dies at ·73, Andrea Doria Survivor check. - The West Ender Staff West End native Ruth Roman, the liner went down 60 miles Ruth Roman was her real name who began her_career -as a knife­ southeast of Nantucket. and she attended the Blackstone thrower at ·Revere Beach and Ms. Roman once recalled the Scliool and Girls High in Boston. ended up in movies starring Gary incident and said she was dancing Her father owned a carny show SUBSCRIBE TO THE WEST ENDER Cooper and , has died. in the Andrea Doria's ballroom at Revere Beach and, at age 9,little She. was 73. when "We heard a big explosion, Ruth became a knife-thrower and $10.00 PER YEAR Ms. Roman, who survived the like a firecracker." the show biz bug hit her. Andrea Doria wreck at sea, died Another passenger on the ship In 1948, Alice Mcintire, assis­ THE WEST ENDER SUBSCRIPTION FORM September 9th in her sleep at her said Ms. Roman took her high tant head worker at the old Eliza­ Laguna Beach, Calif., home, her heels off and raced to her cabin beth Peabody Settlement House 0 I would like to subscribe to The West Ender for the year 2000. son, Richard Hall said. where Hall was asleep. on Beacon Hill, recalled, "Knife 0 Enclosed is my donation of$ ____ Hall was only 3 years old when · The actress said she never throwing wasn't enough for Ruth. Name ______he and his mother were returning feared she or her son would die. She was interested in dramatics from Italy aboard the Andrea Doria But the two were separated and we encouraged her. Addres,s ______on the night of July 25, I 956, when when she was taken aboard the Ile "Ruth always insisted her big the luxury passenger liner collided de France and her son was put ambition, her only ambition really, with the Swedish ship Stockholm. on the Stockholm. After several was to be in the movies," Mcintire Mail check to: The West Ender More than 50 people died in the anxious hours, they were reunited said. P.O. 'Box 413 tragedy and_ 760 survived after in . (continued on page. two) Somerville, MA 02144 It's Ti01e to R-enew Your Subscription to rhe West Ender SlO.QO For All Issues Published in the Year 2000

<(!14e ~esf ~nber P. 0. BOX 413 SOMERVILLE, MA02144 (617) 628-2479 PAGE TWO . DECEMBER, 1999

mqe ~esf Ifu~er THE MERCURY CLUB lOth ANNUAL REUNION P.O. BOX 413 SOMERVILLE, MA 02144 TEL. (617) 628-2479

Staff:

Editor ...... JAMES CAMPANO Publisher ...... RICHARD J. MORELLO Co-Founder ...... RAYMOND J. PAPA

All letters, articles and photos submitted to this publication become the property of The West Ender. Jim Campana is the ·only person authorized to accept memorabilia for The West Ender.

FATHER GERALD BUCKE MEMORIAL Saint Joseph's Church in the West End is seeking donations in order to establish a memorial for Fr. Bucke commemorating his The Mercury Club held its JOthannual reunion at the Hilltop Steak House in Saugus 011 Saturday, nearly thirty years as Pastor. October 2nd. 39 members and friends attended with their wives attending their own separate Donations should be mailed to St. Joseph's Church, 68 Cardinal function. Members came from Florida. New Hampshire. Oregon, Vermont, and O'Connell Way, Boston, MA 02114. Washington, as well as localities around Boston. The attendees were Joe Bettinelli, Sal Cassaro, Anthony Cipriano, Charles Cipriano, Leo Cipriano, Joe D'Ambrosio, Dom DiMare, Lou DiSarcia. Sal Ciliberto, Frank Giuliano, Joe Leece, Joe Matara, Augie Michaels, Joe Noe, .Gene Panzone, Amy Lowell House Sold Ted Parsons, Yano Petrella; Joe Pipitone, Sai Palumbo, Sal Purpura, Tony Pusateri, Charlie Puzzanghera, John Raso, Charlie Romeo, Frank Saccone. John Sanifi/ippo, Tony Salmeri, Vinn y To Nonprofit Developer Saraceno, Jim Sarcia, Bill Scalisi, Tony Sicari, John Silvestro, Chuck Spinale, Joe J. Spinale, Nat Spinale, Yano Ternullo, Santo Tringale, John Ursino and Sam Ursina. A videotap~ was ava "lqjdgjjgm · Amy Lowell House, an 11-story apartment tower in Charles River Joe Leece for all members and friends· who wished to have a copy. We all had a great dinner and a Park, has been sold for $10.7 million- and its elderly residents say they great time talking about the past and present. Our thanks and appreciation go out to Johnny Raso can sleep more soundly as a result. and his wife Helen for putting the time and effort in organizing the reunion. God willing, 1-ve all look Community Builders Inc., a non-profit developer, is the new owner. It forward to the next reunion. You cannot buy friends like ours that have endured all these· years since pledges that 80 percent of the 151 one-bedroom units at the 25 y<;ar-old grade school. The Mercury Club, a social, athletic and mutual acquaintance activities club. had building will continue to have "affordable" rents. In those units, tenants something to do with it. Enclosed is a small donation to keep The West Ender going. can't earn more than $26,240 - 60 percent of Boston's per capita - Photo courtesy: Joe Leece, Portland, OR median income. The seller was Jerome Rappaport, who developed Charles River Park as part of the West End urban renewal project. In February, the Boston RUTH ROMAN Far Country" with Stewart, "Bit­ CALLING MY OW FRIENDS Redevelopment Authority sued to stop him from switching to market­ ter Victory" with Richard Burton Thank you for: sending ine The (continued from page one) level rent un~il 2002 - the BRA's interpretation of the original terms of and "Dallas ~ · with Cooper. West Ender. the project. The suit was dropped as a sale was being worked out. Ms. Roman had the lead role In all, Ms. Roman appeared in I would Jove to hear from any "We were all worried (wondering) if we'd be able to stay here or have in many plays performed at the more than 30 movies, most of of my old friends. , to move," said Stephen Mazur, a six-year resident. "You reach a certain Peabody House. them in the 1950s, and a number - Barry Schulman time in your life- you don't need this pressure," he said. "Some were "She was a quick study in of television shows in the 1960s P.O. Box 71956 having trouble sleeping." dramatics and took directions and 1970s, including "Naked Las Vegas, NV 89170 beautifully, even as a child," City," "" and Tel: (702) 895-9048 Mcintyre said. Murder She Wrote." Fax: (702) 736-6961 Ms. Roman didn't care much for formal schooling and dropped * * * WEST ENDER E-MAIL VERY INFORMATIVE The following West Enders have contributed $100.00 or more to out of Girls High in 1939 and You can now reach Enclosed is a check for a our cause in 1999. We salute them! Now is the time to send your enrolled in the Bishop Lee School subscription to The West Ender. check in the amount of $100.00 if you are interested in becoming of the Theater in the Hub. The West Ender - ·_Still receiving the paper and as a member of the 1999 West Enders Century Club. Ms. Roman eventually moved by E-Maii. - usual find it very interesting and Elvira Flynn John Cucinotta to Tinseltown and appeared in Contact us at informative. Joseph Russo Frank Privitera someminor films before her big j.campano @worldnet.att.net Keep up the good work. Alan Gropman End Bowling League break in Stanley Kramer's 1949 West - Pat & John Locatelli Buddy Sylvester Robert Campanella "Champion," which featured the or Fax at (617) 628-2479 -Oscar-nominated . . Hallandale, FL Kevin McGrath George Brenner Associates Ralph Saya Following the film, Warner Alec Alexander AI Cohen Bros. offered Ms. Roman a con­ Rosemary (Cucinotta) Costello 1999 \\'EST E:\DER GOLD CLLB Bernard J. Conddli tract and she starred in nine films Stephen and Dorothy Maio . . Robert Vatalaro in less than two years opposite The follow ins West Ert4ers have contributed $500.00 to our cause Vincent Raso Sam Marinella Cooper, Flynn, and l_ames Stewart. · for 1999, aimed at keeping alive the spirit of the Wesi End. Mr. and Mrs. Leo Salmeri Mike Messina Ms. Roman also appeared Would you be interested in joining this elite group? Harvey and Vivian Fleitrnan The Boston Synagogue in "Beyond the Forest" with Bette John Cucinotta John O'Connor Davis, "Three Secrets" with LEONARD NIMOY Frank Privitera Victor Terranova and "Mara Maru" FRANK PRIVITERA West End Bowling League Marc A. Lipsitz with Flynn. RICK SOLANO Her other films included "The DECEMBER, 1999 PAGE THREE

Pizzeria Regina in the No. End (now this is Dad's territory and Memories of the West E.nd Through My Eyes another story). Amazing, we never got into too much trouble cause corner of Mortons, I J Fox, ery where Mum knew everyone. Anna, Aunt Connie, Aunt Kate Although I was not raised in everybody knew everyone and the "West End" I feel a need to Godfried's Bakery, the pawn shop I lost my first baby tooth eating a (Sarrafino ), Aunt Margaret you would get "killed" if you ever write. My mother "Mary Spinale on the corner of Staniford, Peter biscotti during our journey. It was (DiMare), and Aunt Rose (Pal­ got caught/witnessed by a neigh­ Ragusa" was lucky to have been the Greek luncheonette corner of time for me to have a "free bee" misano) would gather around the bor doing anything wrong. raised in an area where no one So. Margin, Joe & Nemo's, Carps, from Nannu and his friends and kitchen table and discuss recipes, Well, thank you for listening to locked doors, and if you lived on Sarni's Cleaners, (where cousin witness the bond between the which coffee tasted the best, me and awakening these beauti­ the top floor you didn't "close" . Pudgy worked) and Penacchio workers, shoppers, policemen and which pot to buy, which bread ful memories. My mother Mary the door which always led to. the Funeral Home, say hello to so many cultures. My' non Italian knife cut the best, which day to "Aunt May" passed away in June, kitchen. I have so many memo­ Dutchie the policeman, I would friends had never heard of the go to Chinatown with us kids of 1999 and my Dad "Miano" passed ries I would like to share: Every begin to really get excited! I knew market and had no idea what the ·course, or "the basement", take a away in April, 1999. (Please men­ I was approaching my family's Saturday my mother would take heck I would tell them of these walk "up town" to the Swan tion .them .in your prayers) My me, (she never let go of my hand), building as I could smell those great happenings. That in and of Boats, Uncle Dave's, which cot­ · children, nieces, nephews, and my . great aromas. itself, told me I was different, dif­ tage to rent in White Horse Beach, to the West End to visit wit~ my sister Marguerite and brother Aunt Fran (Ruma) on the 3rd fir., ferent in a sense that made me Plymouth or Swift's Beach, In the "store" was a wood­ Philip and I have a void in our Aunt Lee (Schell) on the 2nd fir., "lucky" to have known the West Wareham (Mum and Dad owned burning stove, Nannu would burn lives and will endure our losses · and of course Nanna and Nannu End and its people. the "Aunt May" on Barnes St. for everything: umbrellas, bushel bar­ with the help of a Divine strength, Spinale on the I st fir. , and the When the B.R.A. took over and many years.) rels, 2 x 4's, papers, left over food, but it is these memories that made "store" below them at 53 South my grandparents had to "get out", etc. (I have to laugh cause he was My Dad "Miano" Ragusa and me smile. As I am writing this, I Margin St., Aunt Anna (DiFranco was a ver-y sad day. Going from forever burning something. It's a the uncles (Uncle Joe, Uncle feel like I am, once again there. on Poplar St., Uncle Joe "Manni­ wonder the house didn't burn the West End was not only the end Dom, Uncle Pinkie, Uncle Jim, Manatza" on Staniford St. or down), but he would make the of an era, it was the end of the Uncle Roy, Uncle John, Uncle - Roseann (Ragusa) Chardo Bowdoin Sq. and numerous cous­ whole street inhale the beautiful family unit being together. On Pete, and older male cousins Concord, MA ins that had the privilege to have aroma of "steak". Those steaks many holidays and Sundays, all (Jackie, Joey, Lester, Roy Jr.) * * * lived there. On these trips from would put the Hilltop to shame. of us would gather at Nanna and would "shoot craps" and we STILL MUSTER TEARDROPS West Medford (the country) to the Usually on Saturday, my aunts Nannu's on So. Margin St. to cel­ younger ones (Anthony, Marilyn, Decades after its destruction West En'd, we would meet many were scrubbing the stairs and then ebrate the holiday and Nanna's Carol Ann, and I) had permission by the "urban renewal pioneers" relatives and family friends, out to the sidewalk and onto the feast, and the adults played cards. to "disappear", going to the Lanky and I still muster teardrops for the (Mum always stopped to hug, tell curb, (that was· one smell that is My Mum fondly referred to as .(for 15 cents) for hours, or walk old West End. stories and laugh) that to me was still, to this day, in my mind). As I Aunt May (to this day, the sisters, to the Boston Common, "only to It was a special place with a going to a "happy place". Mum looked up that very tall building, · six in total, refer to each other wet our ankles" (yeah sure) in the special charm. Time goes on, but would be dressed in her .finest I would always see either my and themselves fondly, by saying Frog Pond, the Swan Boats, who memories last forever. The West dress and pumps and always wore Nanna or aunts or cousins, lean­ "Aunt" in front of their name) could run up and 'down the steps End will always be missed. a hat, regardless of the weather. ing on the window sill on a pil­ and her sisters, Aunt Lee, Aunt of the State House· the fastest, -J. Almeida (Bomber) , _ Going on the subway (Mum low (they .would toss down a Fran,_ Aunt Jo (Lemire), Aunt sneaking into Boston Garden, the E. Weymouth, MA 'didn;t drive then, she got her school bag attached to a rope license at 60 yrs. old) was a real as a pulley enclosed with a few treat and the experience to visit the dollars and a note to do a quick West End and our families is still errand, like Cassaro's) and etched in my mind. On these spe­ anticipate a great feast and feel the cial days, we would walk to to the warmth and love as you entered ALWAYS "market" to visit and bring lunch their apartments. But the best was Soma.e"';b.:i.:n.g to Nannu and Uncle Frank "Pin­ when they were cooking lunch. kie' ~ and Uncle Dom, who were Aunts were busy in their kitchens · working to help Nannu peddle and Nanna was just about done DOI.NG his produce from his pushcart; · with hers and had Nannu's lunch 'Boston ~s lnfan1ous apples, string beans, (3 pounds for ready for us to walk to the mar­ a quarter) candy, tomatoes, etc. He ket. Boy was that exciting cause •DO"' Y A""F -.v••m never charged the Priests and/or I knew what was coming ana Nuns, they were always free. That, where· we were heading. "the market" is a story in itself­ This walk opened my world I will save for those with more to Minnie White's and that'meant .experience than I. penny candy, or a slush, (on When we would round the Merrimack St.) or Cassaro's Bak-

NORTHEASTERN Cambridge activist John ·O'Connor (right) was a recent guest University Press on the West End Video Newsletter. Host Jim Campana is shown 360 Huntington Avenue. 416CP at right. · . Boston, 02115 ·l! ij I

PAGE FOUR DECEMBER, 1999

WEST END YOUTHS IN THE FIFTIES WEST END NICKNAMES By Joe LoPiccolo One of the many interesting things the West End was noted for was its array of nicknames. I have tried to list as many as I can recollect. Please feel free to send in any additional nicknames you remember. ' J~ Lackey Zanelli, Hank the Bookie, Baldi, Pickie DiGaetano, Doc Skiversky, Chickie Showcat, Birdie Smith, Kitty Martin, Tiny Chapski, Smokey Tn!ska, AI the German, Fuzzie Fazzina, Sid Kostka, Kostka the Shaper, Pat the 'Rat Vendetti, Parky Blanco, Tarpy Seltzer, Ding Ding Whalen, Jabber Burke, Joe Zap, Scar Face Surette. Harriet the Horror, Noe DeAngelis, Elephant Man Surette, Symphony Sid, Peter -Looking Glass, Wimpy, The Deacon, Limpy Capodilupo, · Blackie Settiplme, Shorty Brad, Scarecrow Auditore, Jumbo, Marty the Jap, Chop Chop Grasso, Joe Messy Messina, Baby Phil, Last Call Moscaritolo, Gizzy Freeman, Left/Peanuts Wienczkow.ski, Louie the Ruby, Brownie the Bookie, Spongie LoPresti, Hank the Blank Conick, Poonie and Meatball Vietro. Beanie Carter, Woolfie, Ruffie, Snakey Sicuso, Jerry the Killer, Fat Kay Bova, Whacky Jackie, Bones, Kazy Kazaconis, Shalmy the Midget, Joe Smooty, Impy Imperato, Johnny Irish, Yogie Stagno, Dutchie the Cop, Pinky McGrath, Leo Shadow, Joe the Greaser, Lucky Boorstein, Las Vegas Cy.. Bunky Tommy Greb,. D.Z. (Zerendow), The Dummy, Yano. . Viola, Gyp the Blood Bataglino, Sugarfoot Sheldon Freeman, Jake Marinella, Bunzo Clifford, Ethel the Rat, Flab Hunter, Ben Bolt Othmer, D!!lby Smith, Honest Fat Mazur, The Sheriff, Benny Alphabet, Fagala Freeman, Johnnie Bats, Gaspipe West End teenagers gathered in front of 3 Spring St., the storefront location of the Junior Mob Rosenthal, Ischabible, Chibby Berger, P.O. Poliskey, Raozo the clubhouse fo; this ph~to in the 50's. Back row (I. to r.) Tommy Parker, Jimmy Parker, Joe Corsile Weasel, Snoopy Margolin; Hoseman Eckler, Bo Bo Beriandi, Lem and Artie Buonopane. Middle row: Buddy Marino and Bobby Elliott. Front row: Sonny Downey London, Merco Mercano, Scottie Escott, Skish Scalata, Juice, Bitta and Sonny LoPresti. - Photo courtesy: Joe LoPiccolo, Reading, MA Bee Manganaro, Ben Gun, Snowie Herman, Porker Goldstein, Mungo Kachuck, Dodie Diamond, Spike Henessey, Gi Gi Bennett, Bananas BUCKlE, ClASS OF '46 across from the Aaxman family. other '46 grads of Blackie. . Shifres, Snakeyes McGonagle, Oakie Spinale, Hot Dog Riley and Matzaball Levine. · This letter is long overdue. I The "Oddos" moved in later. I hope "the.PIN'' materializes. have been mearung to write but . My !)lOther bad 7 dau~ters - We . . .Would -lov~ . to hear from old S~al Holland, Iron Head, Jake the Ragman, Doog.ie:-C-ohen: never do. were all born in the West End. I friends. Enclosed is my subscrip- Duckie Downs, Moofa Giordano, Hardrock Romanow, Pat the It would be an honor to wear a . worked in the Peabody House at 'tion fee. · Barrow, Mickey Gilligan,·Duffo Camp~gra, Bootsie, ·Mali~ky, 'oQ' Do, little pin on your clothing to show . the front desk a ·few times. My · -Helen (Stacishin) Hazard Beepo, Blinokey, Frankie Shoe, Dixie Sansone, Timmy the Creeper, that you are a West Ender. How sister Elizabeth (Lii:a) worked there 49 Western Avenue Beansie, Shank, Baggi~ Baginsky, Buster Vivolo, Weasel North Easton, MA 02356 . about it? It can be handed down every chance . she could, which •, Bartholemew, Quick Razor Hayes, The Professor, Joe the. Grab Man, to children also. We just have was quite a bit. She was saving for . * * * Pieces, Muzzie, Pluto Micale, Twiggy Branchi, Fish Consolo, Doc Ranieri, Runty, Brother Deery, Stonewall Luongo, Lu Ball, Jerry the to think of the design (small), her education as a nurse at Boston IN MEMORY OF •.• City Hospital. She worked· for 4 · Roache, Mousie Rothwell, Frankie the Pump: Dirty Gi'rty, Tarbox, material and price. I am sending a donation in years and never received compen­ Pickie DiGaetano, Shrimpy, Joe Batts, Espie Esposito, Chilly F¥arra, My brother received a letter . memory of Salvatore Abramo. I sation for it. I threw 'her hours Jo Fi Fi, Spider Murphy, Gaggy, Chef Chef, Marty Moon Face;Starsh, before they took our home away, have enclosed an obituary if you away by mistake (written on a cal­ Peanuts, Cookie Sarro, Lefty, Squeaky, Muffie; Lampshade· Lampkin. instructing us not to repair or are able to mention his passing in endar) and they didn't have a Tip Toe Olsen, Ralph the Ox. Cuttie, Bunny Nunziato. Bfogay make any renovations to our prop­ your newspaper. I sure there record. · She deserves recognition am LoVuolo, Tarzan Madeo; Red Blood, Fat Schnippei'. Lovey LuVuolo ~ erty. They later said all this prop­ are many old West End friends for her time spent working while • Sle~py Storace, Yo Yo Arja, Sparkie and Buddo Greenberg~ · erty was in a run down condition. who have not heard. Moose Marino, Zoro Celata, Bossie Hoar, Han)< Snay, JOe Belt~( Homeowners were told not to her friends were at dances, etc. · I think . your· newspaper is Hi! to Yvonne Pelletier, Sarah Ali Pasha, Zukie · Martin,_ Toomba, Duster Barariosky, Danny the improve their property! wonderful. I hope you are able to Hurvitz, Annie Stepanishan, Irene Gimp, Fat Mazur, Harpo LoPresti, Johnny ·orctiard; Pip·the Bookie, Does anyone remember the keep it going. maypole events in the "Polish Turninetz, Lorraine Koyinsky, Pineapple Stevenson, flank the Pollak, The Shadow.· Six .Sitts,· Spit Park?" · Irene ·Shumansky, Bea Mantia, -Ann L Donovaro Sidlosky; The Greek, Looking Glass Sawtelle, Beaver Vendetti, Baked I was born on Auburn St. Elena Solano, Fran Moulla and Lynn, MA Beans Garber, The Russian, Flathead, North Station Mary, Muscles Shirl, Acey Ducey Reagan, Jenny Ya •Ya ; Paragoric Benny, Lovchimore Pappa, Ray Ray Papa, Pip Ferrante, Justd 'LoGuidice, · WQOshie Noe, Scar Bramante,· Jimbo, Chuchie ' Marowski, ·Koochie Law Offices of ·• Masceri, tony Geno, Btiilo }lead Brenner, Stretch Feinstein,' Hole in . the He'ad Lampkin, Mush Mouth Levine, Monkey' Singer, Btigala. Thomas F. Colonna Barrus, Steppi · .Stepanishen, ·.Ropes ·Romeo, 'Lefty · Five-0, · Bony '. Capone, Smiley Tringali, Jabba, Rosato,· Joe Bomber' Almeida and Tootsie Valenti. · · .· - . • Auto Accidents • Work Injuries • Slips and falls • Wrongful Death IN MEMORY OF .•. . CECEUA PETERKIN . • Real EstateCiosings_ • Wills, Estates and Trusts . . I'm sending a small donatiQn. Cecelia_A. (Qoyle) Peterkin of ­

I in memory of Roy Isadore Leavitt:· the We~t End died .ori ~Strptemt>er ,·· kQow.n · a~ "Izzy" w!lo pass~d 15th. . '. . I ' F R E E C 0 . N SU L TAT J 0 N S aw,~y May 16, 1999 .from c~iae "stie 'was 'ihe ~ife ~f ilie late '· arrest. . James Peterkin an~ : cil<:>tner ~f The Leavitt family lived on Joseph Peterkin ofBo~ton. 30 High St., Suite 200 99 Walnut St., Suite A Chambers Street in the West Erid. Medford, MA Saugus, MA - Fidelia Leavitt Reach us via E-Mail at (781) 395-2834 (781) 231-4900 (wife of47 years) [email protected] . Albany, CA or Fax at (617) 6~~79 DECEMBER, 1999 PAGE FIVE

BORN ON HALE STREET Enclosed is a check for The SOCIETY DI MUTUO SOCCORSO E BENEFICENZA - 1923 West Ender. I am 86 years old and enjoy the paper very much. I was born at 36 Hale Street. I was 8 years old when I moyed to Swampscott, but I remember it very, very well. Our house on Hale Street had a big tree in the front. Even though I moved, my mother would take us to Boston to see our relatives and friends. I remember many good times in Boston with my cousin Agnes Gulino­ Giordano whom is in Florida now. My cousin Frances Celino is in Florida as well. I read about the trip my cousin Jennie Liosa took to Arizoni I also saw the picture of my cousin Mary Passinissi in The West Ender. I enjoy all the articles. When I read it I remem­ ber all the old times which were so great at Cassaro Bakery, Karp, the corner store for candy, the Lemonade Man on So. Margin Street and Mondello the Meat Man. We miss all the old friends. My daughter has been the music director at No. Reading High School for 32 years. She has had all tlie Silvestro boys· in her classroom. Also some of the DiMare boys. I love anq 1 enj~.Y Thf! W.est ; (. Ender. I talked with Mariha " .. Tliii' I9iJph~io ' ofthe Societa di Mutuo Soccorso '[ Ben(/ficenzi{ Figli 'di Italia e Dintomi .wa; submitted by Pai Fi~re[/(j of Medford. Morello last week. We see them He is wondering whether any of our readers kn~w anything abo_ut the Society or can identify anyone in the photo. occas-ionally. . , .. , . My mother used to go see Mrs. PAPER BRINGS HAPPINESS MA-YOR DEAN MAZZARELLA ADDS HIS SUPPORT DOWN MEMORY LANE Priviter~ every' week. They were Sending you my donation_ to a Leominster, the . birthplace Leominster ·Historical Commis­ Surprised when I read the very close to the.Morello's. · paper that .brings. happy m~mo-' of John Chapman, who later sion, and others in this central headlines in Sept. issue. i thought -Agatha Morano . ries. Joe and I are back in florida became the legendary Johnny Massachusetts community. in poor taste. As an old West Swampscott .. MA after spending five weeks in Appleseed, is fighting to save its ''The city might end up buying EIKkf. we had no dislikes or what­ Massachusetts. ever they wrote about race or * * * last apple orchard, Sholan Farms. Sholan Farms in conjunction with ALLEN STREET RESIDENT While there we had a bitter- The owners of the · 178-acre the Trustees [of Reservations]," color. That was a big £rQd of you My uncle Victor Terranova, sweet reunion with some dear property, Dr. Paul Possick and Mazzarella said. "We want that know what! A bad accusation on who lives in Newton, forwarded friends. Thanks to AI Lisitano his wife, Marjorie, of Woodcliff land kept open for public access. behalf of the BRA director. m~ your paper. dated September who made it possible to see some Lake, N.J., have filed plans with Johnnie Appleseed, remember, I am 82 years young and will 1999 and I read many familiar old West Enders at the Meadow the planning board for 161 house was concerned about wildlife and never believe what went on at that name~ in Richard Nedd's story. Glen Mall. lots. All of the land is zoned the environment. And we've built bad time in my parent's life and I have enclosed my donation It was bitter as it saddened us . residential. The first hearing will the city's character around him." all those hard working neighbors to The West Ender. to see . the effects of aging thus be held sometime in December, and friends. I would say it took My name is Victor Richard reminding us of our own mortali- city planner Mary Albertson said. * * * them to an earlier grave, but I am Terranova (Called Richie) who ty- but it was also sweet to spend Situated on a hill off Pleasant BILLERICA ST. RESIDENT sure His h~ is over all of us liVM. at 19 Allen Street and left __ -two hours reminiscing with old Street on the city's south side, I lived on 46 Billerica Street (for better or for worse). They got the West End in 1959 when I West Enders . .It was a happy time the orchard is named for the chief with my parents, Charlie and Flo · peanuts for the property they joi~eq the Air Force and served and good to see that even with of the Nashways tribe that ruled Sacoco and two brothers, Sal and worked so hard for, broken hearts for eight years finally settling in all our physical handicaps all the area in the 17th century. Charlie. It was one of those and the whole nine yards. Denver, Colorado. were cheerful and looking good, Officials of the Trustees of wonderful streets in the West End - Enough or I will wor~ up to While living in Denver I was although older. Reservations, 'a nonprofit land · where everyone was either a my third heart attack. Hi to Joe fortunate from time to time to be Oh where has our youth gone? conservation group, met reeently . cousin or a good friend. "Bomber" and my new cousins able to travel to different parts of We usually visit Massachusetts with Peter Dawson, a Worcester I graduated from the William · from Fort Pierce; florida_; Joe and the world and have returned to the every July and August but if God lawyer who is representing the Blackstone School where one of Francis (Spinale) Celino. States in March after riving in the spares us we will be going North Possicks. my classmates was Ruth Roman; Please print as I should have Sultanate of Oman for 18 months. next year in June, due to our "We're hoping that we'll be and, when I saw her in the had this b;ld taste 39 years ago I have one daughter Tanya and I granddaughters graduating. able to acquire this unique movies, I was thrilled. when this garbage hit the fan. will be- a grandfather in February We do so wish we could attend property," said Richard O'Brien I now live in a "retirement Any comments write: Lee (Spin­ 2000. · your June reunion. Do hope of Leominster, a regional director home for men" and I'm doing ale) Schell, 115 Elizabeth Street, I· hope that in .the near future someone will let us know when of the Beverly based organization. very well. I have four grown-up Holly Hill, Aorida 32117-.1714. you would organize another West the time comes. There aren't too It owns 15. properties west of kids whom I see quite often. Their -l.Le (Spinale) Schell End function. Please place me on many old West Enders around and Boston, including Concord's Old names are: Charlie, Joey, Ao and Holly Hill. FL your mailing list. hopefully those of us still left will Manse. Diane. I would like to wish all my continue to support this great The trustees' efforts are sup- So,' to all my friends from the SUBscRIBE TO old friends happy holidays. paper. If not it could die a sudden ported by Leominster Mayor "Old" West End, I send my love! THE WEST ENDER 11: .., R h death. God bless us all. · · Dean J. Mazzarella, son of Mr. -Joe Sacoco - YICtor ~erranova ( ic. ie) $10.00 PER YEAR Golden, CO -Frances (Spinale) Celino and Mrs. Joseph Mazzarella, Haverhill, MA Fort Pierce, FL formerly of the West End, the PAGE SIX DECEMBER, 1999 '99 Old-Timers Week at West En ouse am DECEMBER, 1999 PAGE SEVEN Frank . Privitera Scho arship Awarded at the --" Sons of Italy Foundation's Awards Gala

The Sons of Italy Foundation's llth Annual National Education & Leadership Awards Gala was held earlier this year at the National Building Museum Auditorium in Washington, D.C: · The gala, attended by more than l ,000 people including Pre:;idenJ,, Clinton, wh~ _ga":'e the keynote_ address, featur.ed CNN's Lal-ry King as Master of Ceremonies. · Highlight of the evening was the presentation of the _Frank D. Privitera Scholarship.: to Ms. Amy Lenarider of Closter, New Jersey, who will be attending Harvard ~ni, versity . · 11th Annual National Education Tony Bennett was honored as Humanitarian of the Year . andFrank: Sinatra, Jr. provided the entertainment. · . ' & Leadershi Awards Gala PAGE EIGHT DECEMBER, 1999 r--- The Joy of Growing Up It_alian Author Unknown THE BATHING 'SUIT I was well into my adulthood before I realized that I was an American. By Bob Vatalaro Ronnie was the only one younger boats, and in the other season, Of course •. I had been born in America and had lived here all my life, The year was 1944. 1 would than I. (He still is). He was having walk on the ice. but somehow it had never occurred to me that just being a turn eleven on July 4th. There was fun running down alleys, and In early June 1944 Rome was citizen of the United States meant I was an American. Americans were a war on. They called it World listening to afternoon adventure liberated, and two days later, D people who ate peanut butter and jelly on mushy white bread that came War 11. America was winning. radio. Wheaties presents, Jack Day happened. More than that, out in plastic packages. Me? I was Italian. We lived at 35 Poplar. St. (We Armstrong!" There were no sis­ I was wildly anticipating stepping For me, as I am sure for most second generation Italian Americans had gone upscale from 9 Willard ters. My,mother prayed hard for a into the water of the Charles and who grew up in the 40's and 50's, there was a definite distinction St.) We even had a Poplar tree girl. There was no anwer; simply . perfecting the swimming stroke no answer. my brother Johnnie had taught me between US and THEM. We were Italians! Everybody else, the Irish, 00 Poplar St., near the synagogue the year before. l was going to be Polish, Jewish, they were the "MED-E-GONES". There was no animo- 00 Chambers Street. Through all this, my mother, sity involved in the distinction, no prejudice, no hard feelings, just well, My father worked at the Catherine Yatalaro, (nee Fioren­ gre~t! we were sure ours was the better way. For instance we had a bread man, Charlestown Navy Yard. (From tino), took command. She ran A week before St. Joseph a coal and ice man, a fruit and vegetable man, a watermelon man. and a pre-war W.P.A) 1 had five broth­ things ..... until my father came School let us out for the summer, fish man; we even had a man who sharpened our knives and scissors who ers. My oldest brother, Frank, was home from work. (Even then, she I excitedly dug through some came right to our homes, or at least right outside our homes. They were in the Army in the South Pacific. was the first line of contact ... or drawers and found my bathing the many peddlers who plied the Italian neighborhoods. We would "'ait The next oldest, Tony, was work­ defense). Ma was to~gh. Ma was suit. It didn't fit. I found a new for their calls, their yell, their individual distinctive sounds. We knew ing in a navy yard in Vallejo, generous. Ma loved her kids. She meaning for the word "tights." them all and they knew us. Americans went to the stores for most of their . California (a boom town caused taught us popular songs sitting on No matter how much I tried, foods. What a waste! ' by the war). My brother Mike was a bench at the Charles River park. I couldn't get my 2 inch taller Truly, I pitied their loss. They never knew the pleasure of waking up in his first car. A 1933 Plymouth, I think my mother's greatest plea­ body into the trunks. I searched in the morning to find a hot, crisp loaf of [tal ian bread waiting behind the (but it had a . '36 engine!) There sure was singing with her kids. for hand me downs. There was screen door. And, instead of being able. to climb up on the back of the was almost no gas available. He Hugging and ki ssing them was nothing. peddler's truck a couple of times a week just to hitch a ride, most of my ~nd his friends spent a great deal a close second. One other thing - · "Ma, it doesn't fit. " "MED-E-GONE" friends had to be satisfied with going to the A&P. of time just sitting in the car. I sat about my mother. Her parents "What doesn't tit?" When it came to food, it always amazed me that my American friends or in it too. (Both Tony and Mike were from my father's home town "My bathing suit." classmates only ate turkey on Thanksgiving or Christmas. Rather, they would be in an army uniform soon in Calabria, Italy. She spoke "Bobby, you're growing . only ate turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes al)d cranberry sauce. Now, we after.) Italian, but usually only to my see if Johnnie or Mike has one Italians also had turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes and cranberry sauce, Johnnie was· next. It was sum­ father. We grew up with a very lying around," but only after we had finished the antipasto, soup, lasagna, meatballs, mer. He had just finished his limited knowledge of Italian. "I already looked." salad and whatever else MAMA thought might be appropriate for the freshman year of high school. 1 At the Charles River we "Bobby, I'm sorry, but you're particular holiday. Turkey was usually accompanied by a roast of some marveled at how much he . knew. learned to sing. to swim. to row gonna have to switch with your , kind (just in case someone walked in who didn't like turkey) and was fol- brothers. or wear some old pants. lowed by an assortment of fruits, nuts, pastries, cakes, and of course my grandfather, his pipe ·in his mouth and his fine mustache trimmed, I can ··t buy you a new bathing suit. .. home made cookies. No holiday was complete without some home would sit.in the middle of it all grinning his mischievous smile, his dark I don't have ~my money." baking· -:- none of . ~ . store l?<>H&ht s~ .for us. Jhis is _where you eyes twinlcling; 'Surveying his domain, proud of his family and ho\v"Well I had learned ·at, 'h·vecy, ~J i)<."¥ learned to eat a seven 'course meal between noon and 4 PM. how to his children-had done. One was a cop, one was a fireman, another had his age that the absenc.e of money handle hot chestnuts and put tangerine wedges in red wine. I truly believe trade and of course, there was always the rogue. And the girls, all had negated the need or raiionale for. Italians live a r\)mance with food married well, had fine husbands and healthy.'children and everyone knew any further discussion. I· was Speaking of food- Sunday was truly the big holiday of the week! It respect. allowed to poud>ut I had to take w~ th: day yoo'd w~e· up tq ~e smell of garlic _and onions frying .in He had achieved.his goal in coming to America and to New Jersey my facial expression out to · th~ ohve ml.. As you lay 10 bed, you could hear the hiss as tomatoes were and now his children and their children were achieving the same goals street. I stared down Poplar St. droppe_d 10t? apan. Sunday ~e always ha~ gravy (the MED-p-GONES - that were available to them in this great country because they were toward the river. I wanted in. called It sauce) and macarom (they called It PASTA). S~nday would-not Americans. When my grandfather died years ago at the age of 76, things Final exams came and went at be Sun9ay without going to Mass. Of ~~urse, you c~uldn't eat before began to change. Slowly at first, but the Uncles and Aunts began to cut St. Joseph. All of us were promot­ Mass because you had to fast before recei,v10g commumon. But, t!te good down on their visits. Family . gatherings were fewer and something ed. I was still unhappy, .and I part ~as we knew when we got ho~e we d find hot meatball~ fry10~, and seemed to be missing, althougl} when we did get together, usually at my showed it around the "flat." More nothing tastes better than newly fried meatballs and bread dipped 10to a mother's house now, I always had the feeling that he was there some­ thim once my mother told me in pot of gravy. how. It was understandable of course, everyone now had families of their her North End fashion, (her birth There was ~other difference between US and THEM. We. had own and grandchildren of their own. Today they visit once or twice a place), to take my long face out­ gardens - not JUSt flower gardens, but huge .gardens where we grew year. Today we meet at weddings and wakes. side. l would have to learn _that ~omatoes, tomatoes and more tomatoes. We ate th~m, cooked them and Lots of other things have changed too. The old house my grandfather disappointments were part of life. (There were · no baby boomers Jarred them. Of course, ~e also grew peppers, .basil, lettuce and squash. bought is now covered with- aluminum siding, although my uncle still Everybody h~ a grapevi_ne and a fig tree and 10 the fal~ everyone made lives there and my grandfathers garden is gone. The last of the home­ then). I thought that whatever homemade wme, lots of It. Of course, those gardens thrived because we made wine has long since been drunk and nobody covers the fig tree in swimm-ing skill I had, would atro­ also had something else our American friends didn't seem to have. We the fall anymore. For a while, we would make the rounds on the holidays phy. My friends had already start­ had a Grandfather!! It's not that they dido 't have grandfathers, it's just and visit family. Now, we occasionally visit the cemetery. A lot of them ed using the river, while some of that they didn't live in the same house, or on the same block. They visit- are there- grandparents, uncles, aunts, even my own father. the older guys used the Warren ed their grandfathers. We a!e with ours and God forbid we d!dn 't see him The holidays have changed too. The great quantity of food we once Bridge. I spent a g~t deal of at least once a day. I c~ still remember my.,grandfath~r telbng me a~ut . consumed without any ill effects is no good for us anymore. Too much time sitting on the doorstep of ~ow ~ carne to Amenca as a youg man, on a boat · How the family starch, too much cholesterol, too many calories and nobody bothers to Leo Brazil's building across from my . building-. I sensed that my hved ~ rented t~ne~ents an~ too~ boarders to help make ends meet, how bake anymore _ too busy. It's easier to buy it now and too much is no he decided he dido t want his c~ldren, five sons and tw? daughters, to good for you. We meet at my parents house now at least my family does mother would watch me from our grow up in that environment. All of this, of course, in his own version of but it's not the same. · ' ' apartment wi$w. Maybe if she Italian/English, which I soon learned to understand quite well. The differences between US and THEM aren't so easily defined any- . saw my sad face it would trigger So when he saved enough, and I could_ never figure out how, he more and 1 guess that's good. My grandparents were Italian Italians, my a miracle. · bought a house. That house served the farruly for the n~xt 40 years. I parents were Italian Americans, I'm an American Italian and my children One day. after watching some remembered how ~e hated to leave and would ~ther Sit on the back ~ Anierican Americans. I'm an American and proud of it. of my friends swim in the Charles I returned to the doorstep. I had ~reb and.watch his garden grow. and when. tH: did leave for ~me s~- Just as my grandfather would want me to be. We are all Americans cial occ~on, had to return as quickly as possible. After all, nobody s now - the Irish . Germans Poles and Jews. U.S. citizens all - but made up my mind that I was watching the house". I also remember the holidays when all the relatives Somehow I'm stiil a little bi~ Italian. Call it culture call it tradition call either going to work on an ice truck, sell papers, shine shoes, run would gather at m~ grandfathe~'s house~ there'~ be tables ~ll off~ it-roots, I:m not really sure what it is. Alii do kno~ is that my chiictren errands, or do anything to earn and homemade wme and music. Women m the kitchen, men to the ltv- have been cheated out of a woriderful piece ofheritage. Tiiey never knew ing room and kids everywhere. I must have a half million cousins, first · my grandfather. _ SQme ~Y· My mother spotted -- and second and some who aren't even related, but what did it matter. And - Submitted by Marie Testa, Peabody, MA me and called out. DECEMBER, 1999 PAGE NINE

"Yeah, Ma ... what?" I though.t would. work .... but they money, you find the bathing suit." my hand a finger at· a time. The "Do I have t()?" "Bobby, come up, I n~d you didn't. All three price tags said "Yea, sure!" tag said 49 cents. I was holding a "Yes, don't argue. Go ahead tq do an errand." fifty-nine cents. (No sales tax "Go early tomorrow morning, Royal Straight Flush! Wow! I did and put your suit on while I make "Aw Ma, ya mean right now." bad~ then). I kept looking. A pile you'll find something." it! you something." "Right now." · of unacceptables was huilding on My supper was on the table. I hurried to the saleslady. I dashed to the bedroom. I had I slowly ambled toward our one side of the wooder: rectangle. How did my mother always know "Did you find a ·pair?" she . the suit on in four tenths of a sec­ doorway. ·Usually I ran up the It got higher and higher. Then I when I'd -be home? Eating was asked. ond. I can't remember what I ate, stairs, trying to beat my brother went through every o. e of them a temporary distraction. Later, I "I sure did." but I broke the record for swal­ Johnnie's pace. However, this ·again. I started recognizing _some went to bed with a high level of "Great, now let's be sure of the lowing without chewing. I barely time I could have been elected of them. Too small, .. :.too big ... too anxiety. Would the morning real- size." heard my mother when she President of the Slow Walker's expensive. I ran to Woolworths. ly hold my promise? I had a diffi- My happiness · turned to warned me about cramps from Club. I walked into the apartment. The displays were similar, but cult time sleeping. Finally, I must despair. I forgot to look at the eating too fast. My walk to the "Where do I have to go?" Woolworths had a snack bar, and have fallen asleep, and awoke size. What if they didn't fit? Are river was swift, but there was "Downtown." the aroma of fresh brewed coffee to daylight. I leaped out of bed there any suits left to look at? something different. I was swag­ "Downtown?" set my stomach gurgling. I had a and practically jumped into the "Bh-good, it's a medium," she gering with pride. I was wearing a (I was shouting) "Where?" passing urge to buy a cup of cof~ kitchen. My father was there. He said. These should fit." · · new bathing suit that belonged to Wherever you can buy a fee, fighting it off with visions hadn't left for · work yet. He was I almost jumped for joy. I was- me ... only me. bathing suit for fifty cents. Try of swimming underwater in the making coffee. · n't into kissing older women, but At the beach I searched for Neisners or Woolworth. They Charles. (I can remember being "Bobby, how coma you get she could have easily been my friends. There were none. There usually have them." without hot coffee). This time I upa so early?" first. I handed her the 50 cent was no one to tell of my good for­ She extended her arm.. Her found the bathing suits by myself. · ''I'm going downtown." piece. She rang up the sale on an tune. I · was a little disappointed, first was clenched. Her fingers New store, new labels, renewed "Maybe you betta wait a Iittla antique register and put the suit in but not depressed. I disrobed, and opened, and revealed the· mosi confidence. I started my search. while, becausa they no opena a bag. She handed it to me, I said lay my clothes in a pile on the beautiful fifty cent piece I had Eureka! A blue one with a red and yet." "Thank you" and started to leave. sand like everyone in the West ever seen. I. stood there with my white stripe! Wow! Forty-nine "Huh?" Before I could tum she said: End dia. The bathing suit was mouth open. I was afraid to say cents! I ran to the sales lady and "ltsa sixa thirty." He was grin- "Hold it, you have change." still- ·beautiful. I approached the anything. It might be a dream. handed it to her. ning. "Huh?" water's edge. Finally." "Is this for you?" I looked at the clock.. and "You have a penny change." One toe went in the water. It "Is that for me?" "Uh huh'' quickly realized that I couldn't "Oh. I forgot. Thank you." · was cold, but other people were ~-- "Nobody else." I dpn't think it's gonna work." walk into a store for two and a "Where are you planning to in the water, so apparently the . "All of it?" "Why?" half hours. use the bathing suit?" temperature was not a killer. "All of it. Put it in your "Its a small. You're a medium. "You wanta coffee; . or you "At the Charles, in the ·west Slowly, I went forward down the pocket. It's really' for small kids." wanta go ta bed?" End." slope of the river bed. I was up to You still have time to go down- I stared at the lady, then at the "I think I'll go back to bed." "Well, have fun. and be care- my thighs. I sat down, then rolled town." ·. suit. The next thing I heard was my ful." over. It was cold, but now I was .: "Wow! Wow! Thanks ' Ma! "Can it stretch?" mother saying," "Bobby, you bet- "I will." getting used to it. I went deeper Where dja- get it?" ,. · ~ Not enough.".... ,'!' . • •. .... ter:. get up ·before.>all the bathing•. _ -I left half~ running, and half into the·river and dove underwa- My happiness was"·surpassed "Thanks" suits are gone.'' It was nine thirty. flying. I couldn't believe ft: My ' ter. At that moment all my dreims only by the smile on her face. · I went back to the stacks. I was walking downtown by . wishing had come true. I even came true. I was swimming, I Was "Don't ask so many questions; - I tried again. T-he stack -didn't • 10:15. The temperature had ' had a penny bonus. I walked, I hidden, I' could see little fish, I felt she said, "Where there's a. will change. I was hot. My face was drop'ped overnight. It was actual- ran, I dodged cars: My heart \vas go(xF in my new bathing stilt. I I;' there's a way. Now be sure to put · damp with sweat. .I was failing. ly cool, but the 50 cent piece was · beating rapidly · and happily: It came up for air. · · )' it in your pocke't, and don't. lose Then a voice .. . the saleslady. · enveloped in a sweaty palm in my was still cool but perspiration was · Standing up-t noticed a little it," .. ''If you don't find anything, _ pocket. ·I released it.only because fonning · on my forehead, I was ·• boy near thcf water's edge; · - She gave me :a big hug. and · you might try tomorrow." I · had to use borh hands in close to home. This time I took He said, "I don't have any.'' reminded me· that the stores were "Why?" ·Woolworth. The saleslady gave · the shortcut alley. ,Reaching my "Any what."· I asked. still open. I flew' down the Stairs. i "Sometimes they add to the me a knowing smile. goal had increased my bravery. · "Stripes on· my bathing suit.'~ half rim on air. I nad the greatest stacks late at night." "I'm glad you came back. I ran up the stairs to our apart- "Wheh you get bigger you'll mother in the wbrld! lwas going "I;>o you . think they will They re-stacked the bathing suits ment. My mother looked at me . get· them," I responded, with a swimming! Wow!'l was walking · tonight?" last night. I think they l¥!d~d · with anticipation. pedantic expression. downtown owning the greatest 'They might." some." i dug into the stack "Did you find orre?" He rait to his mother sayfug, treasure I ever had. It was my tick­ "I was really counting on find- with renewed enthusiasm. Wow! · "Ye'ah, and wait' II you see it." "Moinmie am I old enough for et to 'a great summer. The fifty ing one today," my voice show- There really were· new ones! Still, "Show it to me." stripes?'' · .. cent coin was dutched tightly in ing real disappointment. the pile of discards waS growing. . I proudly pulled the suit from I turned back to the water arid my hand-driven deeply into mY ·"You might .feel better in the !.started to wonder if ari accept- · the damp bag. It still looked walked in up to my. chest. I dove pocket. I wasn't about to'lose it. morning.". · · able· 50 cent bathing suit existed. absolutely' beautiful. ·A 49 cent under, and swam to Ute shore. As I walked· to the top ·of ''Yeah, maybe ..." I was getting hot again. I consid- ticket to a summer of adventure. When I broke the surface I spot­ Poplar ·Street I felt confident I· walked out of the store. ered ending it all .by buying a · My mother looked it over careful- ted my brother Johnnie and a · enough to release the ·coin .from Washington St. lost its magic. I · ·cold drink at Woolworth's lunch ly, and like rriost mothers the friend. I stood up showing my 49 my· ·sweaty hand' in my pocket.: · gave a passing thought to going · counter. No; my mother's poten- world over, she tried to instill in cent million dollar bathing·suit in I didn't-take the·alley ·to Leyerett ' to a local ·store in the West ·End, tial. inquisition killed· that · idea. , her child a sense of pride because all its glory. St. I might get robbed! I walked but remembered my mother-. .Then it happened. I spotted it.. It she had-inade- a great decision, or ·· "Is that it?" Johnnie ·a5ked: down to Green St., to Bo~doin · telling me that N,e_isners and. was covered by a blue green satin accomplished a major feat. · "I rapidly nodded yes 7 . or 8 Square, -Scollay Square, and mag­ Woolworths were cheaper. It was. · pair of"tights." Just a piece of the "Oh, Bobby, _it's beautiful. times. · - ical ·Washington .- St The ·stores a slow sweaty walk home. The dark blue fabric was showing~ You'll look great in this color. Johnnie turned to ·his •friend were there. (Imagine an · 11 year fifty cent piece which spenr time . I gmbbed them. Held them tip . LOOk, it's even the right size. and said, ''That's my brother . old taking that walk today.) I between my pocket and my palm to the light. They were dark blue, How much did it cost?" Bobbie ~ He's got a new bathing found Neisrlers. There were sales didn't, have a dry spot on it. made of a kind ofstretchable jer- "49, ·cents, I have a penny suit." Then he waved and walked ladies enclosed by rectangles of "Hey Ma ..." sey -material. I was getting excit- change for you.." on; After w·alking about fifty clothing tables. "Let me see your new trunks." -ed. There were even two vertical "You keep it Bobby. I can't ··yards· · he turned aro.uvd· and "Uh, do· you ·know ' iWhere · ~1 didn't get any." stripes running down the sides. believe you got all this for 49 · 'waved ;tgain. Brothers do'that. ··· bathing suits are?" "Why? . Did you l()se · the . One red, lUld one white. A fantas- cents. That's great When are you I stood there basking -in the "For boys?" money?" tic bonus! My search for the price going swimming?" realization that my dream had "Yuh:': "No, see, here it is. They did- . · was like a poker player squeezing . · ''Cari I go right .now?" come true. Johnnie's question had "Over there." She pointed at n't have any trunks I could buy. his cards in draw poker. (Nobody· "Isn't it too cool?" validated my joy. It was going to the far end of her rectactangle. Can you go with me tomorrow?"- did it better, or took longer .than "NoMa, it's getting hot. Look · be a great summer. I dove back They had a stack of bathing "No, you can do it alone. You my brother Johnnie.) My hand I'm even sweating." into the water. "Make ~ay _for . suits. I anacked and found three have to look carefully. I found the covet-ed the tag. I slowly move "OK. but eat something first." Johnny Weismuller." PAGE TEN DECEMBER, 1999

MARY MELCHIONE DOMINIC GENTILE Mary Louise (Mercadante) Dominic A. Gentile of BOB CATALANO'S "ROYAL AMERICAN SINGLES" Melchione of Quincy, a grocery Reading died on September 14th clerk, died October 23rd at Quincy · at the Winchester Hospital. He Rehabilitation and Nursing Cen­ was 63. ter. She was 87. Borp on June 28, 1936 in the Born in Pratala Serre, Aveleno, West End, Mr. Gentile lived in Italy, Mrs. Melchione moved Reading for 36 years. He was the . to Boston's West End. She later owner of Gentile Painting and moved to Quincy where she enjoyed gardening. He loved the resided for 48 years. . time spent with his family and Mrs. Melchione was a former was known for his kind nature, member of the West End Mothers sense of humor and a desire to Club. help others. Wife of the late Charjes J., · He was the husband of Rose she is survived by a daughter, (Rabinovitz) Gentile; the father Rita O'.Brien of Wollaston; two of Robert J of Dracut, Susan J. sons, Charles M. of Malden and Mochi of Mansfield, Nancy J. Richard J. of Worcester; three of Tewksbury and Richard J of brothers, Ralph Mercadante Hudson, New Hampshire; the of Quincy and Joseph Mercadante brother of Raymond of Walpole, of Boston; two sisters, Caroline Donato of Roslindale, Constance Esposito of Boston and Susan Foster of Brandon, Florida, Carl · .Guarino of Revere; 12 grand­ of St. Petersburg, Florida, children; 16 great-grandchildren; Carrnelia Metfooney of Seekonk, and many nieces and nephews. and Paul of Randolph; and the . * * * grandfather of Jason, Brianne, LOUIS MEOLA Christopher, Taylor, Benjamin, Lou~s B. Meola of Cape Coral, Krisandra and Dominique. Florida, formerly of Danbury, NH * * * and the West End, died on DOMENIC BRAMANTE October 6th at the age of 79. Domenic J. Bramante, for­ He was the beloved husband of · merly of the West End, died on Marie (Murray-Petrigno). September I Oth. Bob_ Catalano's ' ~ Royal American Singles" hosted a Singles Dance recently at the American Mr. Meola leaves two sons, He was the husband of Shirley ~gwn Hall, 357 Great_&!., Bedford, MA and broke all-time attendance records with nearly 300 Mark and Louis, a daughter and (French) Bramante and father of smgle adults, p:esent. Pictured, _are some of the sin$/e folks dancing to a professional DJ and Top son-in-law Nicki and Donald atfiGia-and-her- husband Stephen 40 Dance Mu~1c. Proper dress. IS requested. There are hors ll'oeuvres, door prizes, lots Qf parking, Polcaro, grandsons, Steven Sullivan of East Taunton. and the hall1s smoke-free. $6.00 before 8:30p.m. $7.00 after. For more information call (617) Polcaro and Donald and Debra Mr. Bramante was the brother 324-4900. Polcaro and a great-grandson, of Frank and his wife Providence -Bob Catalano, Roslindale, MA, William Blackstone School, Class of '45 Alex Polcaro. Bramante of Saugus, Joseph He was a son-in-law to Mr. and . and his wife Lucy Bramante EUGENE GIANELLY JOSEPH NORTH ELLEN ANASTOS Mrs. Michael Petrigno and broth­ of Burlington and · Mary and Eugene Gianelly of Stoughton, Joseph R. North of Boston, Ellen K. . Anastos, 57, of er-in-law to Susan and Cliff her husband George Morris of formerly of the West End, was formerly of the West End, died on Warwick, RI, a language teacher. O'Connor and Adele and Ralph Saugus. entered into rest on February I st. September 23rd. lauded by her peers and named Saunders. He was the stepfather of Julie He was the beloved husband of He was the beloved husband of Teach~r of the Year in 1997 in the Mr. Meola was an ' uncle to Sacchetti of Marstons Mills, Virginia (Bomstein) Gianelly and . Elizabeth (Skory) North and lov­ Warwick School Department, Amanda and Chris and to many Gerard Cabeau of Mills and Chris­ devoted father of Dr. Ralph Gia­ ing father of Mary Theresa North died November-3rd at Women & nieces and nephews. topher Cabeau of Burlington. ne,lly and Dr. Anthony Gianelly of Woburn, Leslie Ann North of Infants. Hospital. She was the wife and stepfather · of Joanne (and Somerville and Joseph R. North, of Milton V.Ana$tos, Jr. 1999 \YEST E:'\DERS l\IEi\IORIAL CIRCLE Jerry) Burt and Barry Winer. Jr. of Springfield. "She probably taught half the . Mr. Gianelly wa<> the brother Mr. North was the brother of teachers in the district how to The following West Enders have contributed $100.00 or more in of Romeo Gianelly, Eli~abeth Delores North of Quincy. become better teachers," Rouleau memory of their loved ones in 1999. Now is the time to send in Milas and Florence Stack. · He was the late owner of said. "She was the consummate your donation to be included in the 1999 West Enders Memorial He was the dear grandfather Beacon Hill Barber and was a late · professional. At all times, her job Circle. of Lisa, Todd, Patricia, Robert, Vie.tnam Veteran. U.S. Army and came first." Catherine, Jerry Jr. and Justine.' U.S. Coast Guard. Born in the West End, a daugh-· 1n memory of ter of Dora (Christo) Kaskaviqi / - * * * Francesco and Anna Noe and children Joe, Carmello, Vincent * * * of Palm Bay, FL. ·and the late and Frank from Josie Patania ANNA BIFULCO KENNETH BOVA Anna E. Bifulco of Revere, James KaskaviqL she received her Joseph and Anita Russo, Donald and Sylvia Grey, Joe Solano Kenneth M. Bova of Chelsea formerly of the West End, died on. bachelor's degree at' Bostor1cState . and Moe Guarino from .Vincent J. Russo ,College in 1964 and her master's ·Gaetano and Josephine Privitera. and Revere, a writer, died on November II th. She was the beloved sister degree· in educatio.n from Rhode _ Vincent and Ida Bellissino from the .Bellissino family November 3rd in New Orleans. of Beatrice Ryan and her late Island College in 1974. • My grandparents Joseph and Josephine.Annello from Joseph He was 51 years old. husband Thomas. From 1964 to 1971 -she !Jiught Annello Born in the·.West End, Mr. Mrs. Bifulco was the devoted in the Somerville and Quincy Pauline Lishano from her husband AI Lisitano Bova was raised in Chelsea and Godmother of Leonard, Robert School Departments before she Tony Genovese from Michael Rao Revere. He attended St. Rose moved to the Warwick sehool Rose Cucinotta from Tony (Juju) Cucinotta · Elementary School and graduated and Paul Doucette and Joanne Shaughnessy and all of their system. where she spent 27 years. M.y parents Fay and Murray Alter fro'm Steve Alter from Immaculate Conception children. Illness forced her to retire in 1997. My mother Rita Zenga from Tony Zenga . High School in Revere. She was the loving friend She spent a decade at Warwick Grace.and Vinceniio Garrasi, Carolina and Antonio, Joseph, . He is survived by his mother of the late Helen and Albert Veterans Memorial High School, Alfred, Albert, Attilio and Concetta Manzelli from Mario : Katherine M. of Brockton and Doucette and dear sister of the late six years at Groton Junior High and Maria Manzelli two brothers, Gerard of Halifax . Harry and John LaSpina, Rose School and eight years at Tollgate Olympia and Salvatore Bramante from Mary (Bramante) and Leo C. of Quincy. High School. · Marchesani. · Mastacusa, Connie Bertuccini and "' * * Lucy Tavano. . . * * * DECEMBER, 1999 PAGE ELEVEN Former West Enders Business Directory

TRusT IT To THE SPECIALIST. We offer safe individualized care of Oriental rugs, an alternative to harsh commercial cleaning. • Scotch guard • Mothproofing • Pet Stains and Odor Removal • Pickup and Delivery • Cash & Carry Discount DAVID A. LEONJj~ • Member of the Association of Specialists in Cleaning and Restoration Elizabeth ATTORNEY AT LAW liiJGRILID Peabody House ()lUI ~I \1 Rl lt. ( ARI <7e1 > 64e-234s LJ<}O~E & LJ<}O~E CLEANING • RESTORATION • APPRAISALS FAX (781) 64e·2S44 637 MASSACHUSETTS AVENUE 1-800-649-7707 STILL GOING RES. 643-9700 ARLINGTON, MA 02174 STRONG AFTER

TEL. (617) 666-0300 100 YEARS! Marilyn J. (Longo) Barrett, G.R.I Residence: 245-9021 ELIZABETH RELO Coordi11ator PEABODY HOUSE PRIVITERA, PRIVITERA & PRIVITERA 277 Broadway ATTORNEYS AT LAW Somerville, MA 02145 Christopher J• .Barrett (617) 623-5510 Realtors FRANCIS D. PRIVITERA 73 Albion Street JEANNINE PRIVITERA BARRISTER'S HALL Wakefield, MA 01880 FRANCIS D. PRIVITERA, JR. 59 UNION SQUARE PHILIP J. PRIVITERA SOMERVILLE, MASS. 0214-3 · 781-245-50 ll

APPRECIATE HARD WORK WEST END FOREVER I appreciate what you are Although we are out of the doing. Lots of hard work but well West End, the West End will never (617) 266-8216 done. I'm from Leverett St. and be out of us. However distant we was born in 1916. You guys at are from cherished friends and The West Ender are a different friendly neighbors. However life generation. has changed us since the infamous FOUR T'S FUEL STOP, INC. The Great Depression and days of the wrecking ball. How­ 77 Broadway · 24 CYPHER STREET World War II with General ever distant we may be from our Somerville, MA 02145 . SOUTH BOSTON, MA02127 Patton's 3rd Army and survived formerly well knit community, the war was how I passed the time we are linked to the West End 7 AM - 6 PM MONDAY- FRIDAY away. forever ... - J. Almeida -Alexander Pless (Bomber) (617) 625-0100 PAUL THEODOS Gloucester, MA Weymouth, MA (617) 625-0166

As I Look Out My Window By Frank Reynolds John Russo As I look out my window with a view of the town rmtusJ~ It saddens me much and brings on a frown FAX: (781) 391-2912 The buildings are tall, and some think ·they are great 390 MAIN STREET They are named for the polls that worked for the state. JOSEfH RUSSO IVIEDFORD, MA02155 Funeral Home, Inc. OFFICE(781) 396-8000 There's the McCormack for one on the side of the Hill RES. (781) 272-4548 ~· There's the J.F.K. that might give one a thrill ROY J. SCARPATO PRESIDENT Then there's the Hall that was built with some gall Since 1926 But they forgot Jim Curley, the best of them all. Sales • Residential • Comme~ial • Rentals • Management • Appraisals • 2 Spaci

/ •••••••••••••••••••••••• • ICE SKATING CLASSES • Z'Mu'Hk4. (~&~t:~ .: ~~.; - ·' • • LOUNGE AND RESTAURANT • • • I 7 M.D.C. Rinks • 225 TREMONT STREET; BOSTON, MA02116 Lessons - $90 Child • $ 100 Adult (Across from the Wang Center) • • Tel. 426-8769 • Starts Soon • • DANCING EVERY NIGHT • D.J. • OLDIES & GOODIES • ~~ (781) 890-8480 A~ FRIDAYS AND SATURDAYS • · www.lceskatlngclasses.com • "Dedicated to Servicen . • Bay State Ice Skating School • BEST SANDWICHES AND PIZZA IN TOWN • • Nations/Insurance •••••••••••••••••••••••• Concepts

Have a professional represent you and your claim Malcolm Zimmerman against the Insurance Company Director of Marketing CONSTANT SERVICE Utit!J Richard Settipane Connie (Giuliano) East Brook Executive Park A Full Service Agenry PUBLIC INSURANCE -ADJUSTER 20 Eastbrook Road • Suite 103 Slauenwhite, CTC Dedham, MA 02026 Pre,-ident ,. FIRE- BURGLARY- FLOOD (781) 320-0770 FAX (781) 320-0410 And All Other Losses Pertaining to Your Home or Business 1--- 25 Russell St., Woburn, MA 01801 (78 1) 933-8880 - Res. (78 1) 729-9382 Fax (781) 933-673) One Longfellow Place - Suite 2322 24 Hour Service - Boston, Massac husetts 02114 (617) 523-3456 Your 1 $30.00 ~------,. ~ .. .. .' '· The Boston Synagogue Boston's Largest Manufacturer donation Formerly the North Russell Street Shu/ ~ of Corrugated Boxes ·-·· ROMANuw for an ad Complete Packaging • Design Service Proudly remembers its West End roots Point Of Purchase Displays -- in _supporting The West Ender Serving Boston And New England on this page We Stock All Printers Sizes Many Other Sizes In Stock will allow us The Boston Synagogue @ Charles River Park ~ Catalogue On Request 55 Martha Road, Boston, MA 02114 (617) 523-0453 346 UNIVERSITY AVENUE to continue .CONTAINER WESTWOOD, MA 02090 (781) 320-9200 to keep alive the Spirit of The West End! 8BRE · (781) 396-9200 T UGHT.~ Funeral Planning ... Before the Need Arises HOME OF DELLO RUSSO THE WEST END R:JNERAL SERVICE, INC. VIDEO NEWSLETTER

306 Main Street • Medford, Massachusetts 02155

, . CHAALESSCIMECA • * Full Time Day Program for Adults SOMERVILLE * Theater Arts Certificate Program !Bo1J.lon Cfomato Co., [Inc.- COMMUNITY * TV Commercials & Fencing Packers •. Dls~rlbutors ~ Commis~ion Merchants * Stage & Camera Acting & Speech ACCESS TELEVISION ic Self-Improvement for "Non-Actors" • 117 NEW ENGLAND PRODUCE CENTER CHELSEA, MASSACHUSETTS 02150 DAYS AND EVENINGS 90 Union Square "Become • .,.n of the wor.1c1 of Film, n-tre a TV ComA*C181•" Somerville, MA 02143 CaR for a Free Brochure ACTOR'S WORKSHOP (617) 884-5901 (617) 628-8826 (Voice/TTY) 40 Boylston Street, Boston, MA 02116 Tel. (617) 423-7313 F111nk Slor'Ke, Director