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Submitted by Comments:
mark w young
From: baton rouge
E-mail: cocozak1@aol.com

every body talks about jahns and rko but espically the graduates from richmond hill have forgotten about the valencia in jamacia the beautiful ceiling with stars and blue sky and the pool of gold fish in the lobby.
Added: July 3, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Betty Fitzgerald
From: Las Vegas, NV
E-mail: lvbmcfitz@aol.com

To Staci Kosko--
I'm another student of your mom's from back in the 50's. She gave us a solid foundation. I think I stopped classes with her when I was 14 and discovered boys-- but I still love to dance and attend classes now for exercise 3 times a week... and I can still twirl a baton!
Added: July 3, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Deborah Crane
From: Kew Gardens
E-mail: suedepumpkin@yahoo.com

I was looking for information on Cheryl McCarthy's murder in 1969. Your site came up. Can anyone steer me to a site to find out more?
Added: July 3, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
marty peshler
From: smithtown
E-mail: martypesh@yahoo.com

haven't been on this site for many months but saw so many familiar names. so i will write a short note to each one.
kathy giambertone-- we did e-mail each other quite a few months ago, hope all is well, hope to see you in oct. george farrell-- hope all is well [the mets just beat the cardinals 3 out of four] are you staying in touch with my brother al? rich massey-- do you own any animals that you want to tell me about? i talk with 'bulls' every week. mike hans-- we had been e-mailing and then lost touch. how is the family? are you coming 'down' in oct.? pat goddard-- 116 st was the best place to grow up. my sister once counted there were 80 children on our block.
it was nice to see all the goddards at pauls last summer and i hope to see them all in oct. mark young, or as you were known in 'mickeys' as marko. mickeys was a great little 'whole in the wall' i miss that place and all its characters very much. do you hear from billy hubbard? todd peter-- how are you? we also lost touch recently. i still plan to visit you in hilton head. did you stay in touch with kathy g.? are you coming up in oct.? louise garretto-- how have you been? regards to roseann and john. patty grey-- how are all the greys? have not heard from eileen since i took an early retirement from pru. how is she?
loved growing up in richmond hill, wouldn't change it for anything.
Added: July 3, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
EUGENE GOLONKA
From: scottsdale, arizona
E-mail: Gene Golonka7@qwest.net

I Graduated the Hill in Feb. 1947 - before any of your Parents knew you were coming to Planet Earth.
I Just left Richmond Hill Monday June 28th. I Attended Mass at Holy Child Sunday. It rained on-and-off all week- but it was a blessing. Jahn's just closed but it will never be forgotten- AMEN!
I had a brother Norm and a sister Delores attended RH in the very early 1950's. Anyone knew them? Driving in New York is nothing like it was in our day. I Believe it's safer driving in Bagdad. From the land of the 'Sun'.
Added: July 2, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Frank Biscay
From: Iselin NJ, 08830
E-mail: bisc928@aol.com

Hey Ruth, I grew up on 109th Street right down the block from PS 108. Knew well some of the 110th Street families you mention particulary Tommie Block and the Gillen brothers, Ed and Joe. Also knew Tommie Joy from 108th Street and the PS 108 schoolyard.
Graduated from Adams in Jan, 1961 and left Richmond Hill for Island Park, Long Island in 1984 and left there for NJ in 2004.
For those of you not familiar with the C&F bar it later became Al's Stereo Lounge across from Winters and the Greenwood Bakery. Have a nice 4th, all.
Added: July 2, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Brian McNerney
From: La Verne, CA.
E-mail: ceo@lavernechamber.org

I graduated from HCJ in 1958 and heard about a reunion on July 10th. I was told to go to Facebook and they had a site. I went but couldn't find anything. Is the information really on Facebook. If not, how do I find out about it.
Added: July 1, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Jonn Mulry
From: Chattanooga
E-mail: JonnNightwatcher@hotmail.com

did any one here go to Glen Morris Presbyterian Church?
I was in Sunday School there in 1961. when I told my third grade teacher, Mrs. Morse, at PS 100 that I had gone to church, she let out a mighty "Hallelujah!" right there in the class room. I believe the pastor was Pastor Jenkins.
I still have my King James Bible that he gave me the second week I went there.
Added: July 1, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Jonn Mulry
From: Chattanooga
E-mail: JonnNightwatcher@hotmail.com

staci kosko: OMG! I haven't even thought of that place since the early summer of 1962! assuming that I have my memory right.
where precisely was that studio? my parents had the C&F Bar & Grill at 111th and Liberty from 1959-63. Jonn
Added: July 1, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
RUTH FIUMARO
From: SOUTHOLD NY
E-mail: BOHACK@AOL.com

My name is Ruth Fiumaro. I grew up on 110th St near Rockaway Blvd. Brother of Rudy Koehler. Went to PS 108 (57), John Adams (61) and St Joseph's College (65). Loved growing up on 110th St.
What wonderful families that lived there. Pellissi, Cardinal, Block, Dornhoffer, Hammel, Milliga, Fleming, McQuade, Lechleitner, and Gillen on 111th St.
Played stick ball on 110th Ave. Q41 used to interfer with our game. Went to Winther's Ice Cream Parlor frequently. Married Harry Fiumaro in 1965, my John Adams HS boyfriend. He grew up in South Ozone Park 133rd St and 111th Ave and played basketball at Lincoln Park and St. Teresa's.
Raised three sons in Valley Stream not too far away from where Tommy Joy lived with his family. Retired in 2007 to Southold, NY. I have fond memories from those days.
Added: July 1, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
mary johnson
From: long branch nj
E-mail: mjohnson@pershing.com

Greetings All! Happy 4th! So nice to read so many things about the old neighborhood. There are so many things I have forgotten about and this site brought them back.
I remembered Smokey Park. Does anyone remember horseback riding in Forest Park? I didn't do too bad; but I was no Dale Evans though. Sometimes I wish I could go back, but that is not the way things are. We only get one chance. Regards Mary
Added: July 1, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Joe L.
From: Long Island
E-mail:

This message is for Bob Rainis...
I do remember your family quite well, as your mom and mine were good friends for many years. Your sister Jeanine was a sweetheart, and Steve was a rebel, but a wonderful, decent guy to know. Years after we drifted apart and got on with our lives, I'd run into him occasionally on the street and he always had a warm hello and regards for the family.
I do think of you guys from time to time and am glad to hear you're doing well. We all grew up quite a bit since the days of being smacked into shape by the nuns at HCJ...
Like your brother Steve, my hair was too long for graduation specs, but I got away with it, as Sister Ann Michel would "gently" tuck it under my cap!... have fun at the reunion, and give Jeanine a big hello for me...
Added: June 29, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
staci kosko
From: island park, new york
E-mail: rfkosko@optonline.net

Thank you for remembering Norma Deane Dance Studio on Liberty Ave... She is my Mom and would have loved to be remembered... Stacie
Added: June 28, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Matt Wasilefsky
From: Phoenix AZ
E-mail: mattwasilefsky@hotmail.com

This is for Barbara.
I did not know you but i lived around the corner from 1963 to 1973 at 124-09 95 Ave. The Thorns lived next door and 2 doors down were the Harris's. Use to hang out mostly on 124th st and 123 st with the Seysters, Sicas, Carmody's and Tusa's. We played handball at smokey park all the time. punch ball and stick ball on 123 st and 124 st.
I remember ruprechts deli. She was something else. She never wanted to take back return bottles for deposits. I remember when Jonese sold the candy store. Me an Shawn LeGrade sold sodas in the park for the new owners.
Played handball at the park with Kenny Oliveri and dated his sister Joanne. Good times
Added: June 27, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Bob Rainis
From: Long Island and da Bronx
E-mail: elcadcnrainis@optonlin.net

Thanks about the comment about my brother Steve, a day doesn't pass that i don't remember and think what things would be like had he not died. I'm sure that he'd be attending the Reunion of HCJ on July 10th. When he graduated he had to walk at the end of the line, not because he was the tallest, but he refused to cut his hair and they had threatened to with-hold his diploma. That's the way I rememebr it.
My sister Jeanine is up from Palm Beach for the summer (Hamptons ya know) and we would like to attend. But the Faacebook thing didn't help. So if anyone wants to pass on the info, use my e-mail. We'd appreciate it.
Just a few weeks ago a classmate of my sister was working "security" at a sweet 16 and when he saw my daughters name on the guest list, asked if she was Jeanine's daughter, No, but she is my Aunt!
Billy, I'm not a Priest, although I am a Father and soon to be Lutheran Pastor. Yeah, I'll be hopefully one of the guys in "the collar" at the Ale House. Yes, just like RC priests, we've been known to "have a few". 25 years as a cop also lets me know that the advise to those attending: Friends don't let friends drive drunk! Not that it will be a problem as I hear Sr Regina Margaret will be making a "special appearance".
Till then, blessings ya all. Bob (Never Bobby)
Added: June 27, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Bill C
From: Northport
E-mail:

I grew up in kew gardens, my first job was in goodwins on jamaica avenue in 1963, it was a great place, all the workers were like a big family. Does anyone know what happened to it or have any pictures.
I really miss that place.
Added: June 27, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
mark w young
From: baton rouge la
E-mail: cocozak1@aol.com

the other street crossing guard was mrs callahan pats mother her post was atlantic and leffets.
Added: June 26, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
V. Lore Foley
From: Shreveport, LA
E-mail: usfoleys@bellsouth.net

Looking for Danny Bartolomeo, who owned and operated the Country Cottage Ice Cream Parlor on Lefferts Blvd. in the late 1970's - early 1980's.
Added: June 26, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
PAT TETA SPENCER
From: HAUPPAUGE, NY
E-mail: DONLIN3@optonline.net

Of course I remember Winnie she was such a wonderful person. Cannot think of who the other crossing guard was. Do you remember the deli Gus on the corner of 117th st.
all good memories of a wonderful place to grow up
Added: June 25, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
mark w young
From: batonrouge la
E-mail: cocozak1@aol.com

the street crossing guard at 117th and 95 ave gueses was mrs mature.
Added: June 25, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Barbara Procaccini Cuoco
From: Bermuda
E-mail: bcuoco@ibl.bm

can anyone tell me if anyone from Holy Child Jesus, class of 1964, is going to the July 10th reunion???
Added: June 24, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Barbara Wojtko
From: Colorado
E-mail: bwojtko@msn.com

Pat Spencer--
Must have walked right past your house thousands of times going back & forth to school! Do you remember the school crossing guard who got us safely across Lefferts & 95th every day for years? Her name was Winnie. Anyone remember the name of the crossing guard on 117th & 95th?
Added: June 24, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
ivan yantis
From: quincy, il
E-mail: ivanyantis@yahoo.com

my dad is trying to find richie lovaglio.
my dad is mike yantis. my phone number is 217-740-9540. if you want to reach him, if you know him, or you know where richie is.
Added: June 23, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
PAT TETA SPENCER
From: HAUPPAUGE, NY
E-mail: DONLIN3@optonline.net

Lived on the corner of Lefferts and 95th Ave. from 1946 until 1966.
St. Benny's was our church and sorry to read that the school has closed. Did not attend school but did attend religion on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Remember St. John Edmund very well. The deli on 95th and 117th St before being Gus Rosners was called Mr. Momathy's. Does anyone remember him?
Attended PS 53 then onto PS121, then RHHS graduating in '61. All great memories and a great place to grow up.
Anyone remember the Manziello's Jerry and Kenny, Janet Powers, and Marian Fuchs? All attended St. Benny's and we were close friends. Really enjoy this website.
Added: June 23, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Bill Heaney
From: lincroft new jersey
E-mail: btjk35@aol.com

wow what a great site,
see bobby raines is a priest... lol... well congrats I always thought you would become one.
Funny, over the years have kept in touch with a few good friends, tony peretta, mark rollins, and tom osborn, from the old neighborhood. Gleens has been closed for some time, and regents row went out as well. glad to see the austin ale house has picked up the slack for keeping together, thats a good thing.
So to all hc grads just maybe will make july 10....
Added: June 22, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Barbara Wojtko
From: Colorado
E-mail: bwojtko@msn.com

Mark Young-- I lived at 94-06 125th St.
We rented the second floor of house owned by the Glasser family-- there was Jimmy, Bobby, Mary, Pat & Kathy Glasser. I remember the Callahan family-- they were closer to 95th Ave. I lived there from 1955 till 1973.
Other names from the neighborhood that I remember-- Irene Coleman (lived on the corner of 124th & 95th). Also Noreen Flynn from 124th St. My aunt & uncle lived on 124th St for many years-- Al and Agnes Hank. We'd be out catching "lightning bugs" till it got dark on summer nights.
I remember the hot dog stand and the Mr. Softee truck coming down the street. Good memories of a wonderful place to grow up. I could spend entire days in Smokey Park-- there was always someone to play checkers, handball or horseshoes (in the corner of the ball park). We didn't have all the organized things that the kids have today-- but we made our own fun!
Added: June 21, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Patty Grey
From: Long Island NY
E-mail: pecurls@aol.com

I have just had the best time reading through so many posts!
Thanks to everyone who had something to say about growing up in a great neighborhood. I would be very interested to hear from anyone from the St Benny's graduating class of 1970 or anyone who hung around in the PS 57 schoolyard. Keep those comments coming, folks.
Added: June 21, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
mark w young
From: baton rouge la
E-mail: cocozak1@aol.com

barbara wojtko you must of lived near pat calahan and jackie harris. lived around the corner from you, rubrecks was on the corner, good german deli. next to jonesies was a soda distributer, he sold mission soda, it had a little mission like a little church on the lable and than if you wanted to put your life on the line you whent through the ball field and across atlantic ave to get a hot dog. it was either a sarbret or a hebrew national under the umbrella; those were the days.
Added: June 21, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
DW Smith
From: Sloatsburg, NY
E-mail:

I kind of remember playing softball for Schlosher's Bar while a fellow named Teddy owned the place.
We had a terrible team, but was always warmly welcomed back to the bar to drown our sorrows and laugh about it all. Must have been around 1982.
Added: June 21, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Jim Burke
From: Long Beach, CA
E-mail:

Steve B: Roast beef on a roll was 25 cents. I remember when you were 86ed from Connecticut.
Added: June 20, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Barbara Wojtko
From: Colorado
E-mail: bwojtko@msn.com

Reading Mark Young's comments-- I also remember Mrs. Detweiler in the office at SBJL.
One person from each class would go down there in the mornings and buy supplies for our classmates-- 5 cents for a memo pad! I also lived across from Smokey Park-- on 125th St. Remember Artie very well--he chased me out of the park at least once a week for standing on the swings or some other infringement of the park rules.
Also remember another parky-- John. He was in charge of recreation. Anyone remember playing nok-hockey or "skellies" with bottlecaps or dodgeball in the swimming pool? How about "Jonesies" on the corner of 125th and 95th Ave?
Added: June 20, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Bruce McCarthy
From: Knoxville TN
E-mail: mccarthyby@yahoo.com

Steve Batthany is a fake, he is still 20 years old and hanging out in Rockaway Beach on 118st at the white house (mothers lock up your daughters) he has been seen in Bogianos (however one spells it) eating clams and drinking beer, he is banned from McSorleys ol ale house and Glenns.
Added: June 20, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
mark w young
From: baton rouge la
E-mail:

living across from smokey park the reason why it was called smokey because of the coal engines and another fact was the attendents were called parkys and the one that was their since i was a kid his name was arty.
Added: June 19, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Steve Batthany
From: Seymour Johnson AFB NC
E-mail: ebatthany@aol.com

Here's a real brain teaser:
Who owned Rosners Deli before Gus and how much was it then for a ham & swiss on roll and a bottle of soda??
Added: June 19, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Theresa Armstrong (nee Maletta)
From: Toronto, Ontario, Canada
E-mail: chta@total.net

Greetings! I graduated from Richmond Hill High School in 1967, and was called Teri.
I don't remember too much, but am trying to! What I do remember is cutting classes with Larry Zapolsky and Susan Pantaleone and going to the diner on Atlantic Avenue.
Does anyone know if the 1967 year book was put online?
Added: June 19, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
richie lovaglio
From: rockledge, fl
E-mail:

hey bob, knew your brothers danny and steve.
danny played football with us at victory field. we had a great team. nice to see old name. happy father day and say hi to dan. he hung out with my brother micheal... miss steve
Added: June 19, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Teresa Smith Pedone
From: PA/NY
E-mail: apedone@ptd.net

To Marc Young... do you have a brother Michael Young who graduated in 1968 from SBJL?
If yes could you please send him my email address. I would like to connect with him regarding our Reunion Dinner on 7/25/09. Thanks! Teresa
Added: June 19, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
mark w young
From: baton rouge la
E-mail: cocozak1@aol#46;com

from 1953 to 1960 mrs detwyler was the sec. to the prinicipal. the principal at that time was sr mary vicent.
Added: June 18, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Bob Rainis
From: Deer Park NY
E-mail:

The mention of several churches/schools promps these memories.
My family lived on 93rd ave, between 112-114th streets. I lived closer to the 112th st side, while my best friend, Charlie (Bianculli) lived closer to 114th. 'Best friends' since about 5 were we together almost all the time, except for school and church. Oh, we weren't different religions, both were Roman Catholics (wanted to be priests for a long time too). What seperated us was the boundary line between St Bennies and Holy Child.
It wasn't until I just read the story of St Bennie's that i realized that Charlie was right when he said "his" monsignor (Hald) "outranked" "My" monsignor (Murray). Funny how ya remember little things.
The second memory was about Anniversary Day in RH. The Lutheran Church referred to in an earlier post St Paul's- 114th is now closed and in the process of being sold to another denomination. St Paul's and St Bennies School, both now a part of the past.
The planned 100th anny of HCJ is also of interest as me and my three siblings each graduated from there. I wonder again aloud those who knew me back in the day and thought that one day I would be a priest, would welcome back a Lutheran pastor, with wife and three children? My sister Jeanine and brother Dan will be at my hosue in LI for Fathers Day, that is after I come from the Divine Liturgy in my parish in the Bronx. Brother Steve died in 1980.
Richmond Hill has been described in many a sermon! A group of us who hung out together first at Ponces/Church steps and later 116th/101 ave, went to Breezy Point and held a three day Sandstock the summer of '69.
Added: June 18, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
paul galbraith
From: highland falls, ny
E-mail: pgalbraith1956@msn.com

i am so glad The reunion at the Ale House July 10th is open to anyone who attended Holy Child.
If you reference Facebook.com and go to the Holy Child Jesus site there is a way to let them know you are attending. There will also be reunions of different classes graduating Holy Child during there 100th Anniversary in 2010.
Information can be attained by calling the Church office.
Added: June 18, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Rita Keelen
From: Harrisburg, Pa
E-mail: rkeelen@comcast.net

i am so glad i found this site
Added: June 17, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Jim O'Sullivan
From: Naugatuck, CT
E-mail: Jim@OSullivanUSA.com

Looking for Members of St. Mary Gate of Heaven School, Class of 1968. Reunion scheduled for 7/18/2009. Please pass this along. Thanks.
I grew up in Ozone Park, but many fond memories of Richmond Hill. My grandparents lived on 118th St. next to SBJL rectory and we were there every weekend. Many a crewcut at Pete's on Atlantic & Leffert's! Gallagher & O'Brien's. Rosener's Deli, Dorgler's Automotive. Jahn's.
All great memories.
Added: June 17, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
steve batthany
From: SJ AFB Goldsboro NC
E-mail: ebatthany@aol.com

I guess I'm just an old Graybeard after all;
MR Sarling was there from 1943 to about 1956. He lived on the east side of 117th st by the school yard next to the Brackens. During days we had MR Grey suit 100 years old received 10 successful extreme unctions, a nice old man.
See you guys. Hey! When did we all get to do any school work while collating all this data??
Added: June 17, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
richard massey
From: new york, n.y.
E-mail: masserrf@yahoo.com

Don't forget Mr. Welsh long term custodian at S.B.J.L.
I remember he raised fancy pigeons as a hobby. His son Bill was a scout leader with scout troop 273 and one of the earliest new york state lottery winners.
Added: June 16, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
bill heaney
From: lincroft new jersey
E-mail: btjk35@aol.com

is there any truth to a reunion of Holy Child on July 10 at the austin ale house in kew gardens? if there is, what years...
Added: June 16, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
ken zaveckas
From: gettysburg, pa
E-mail: kennysburg@hotmail.com

more names from the past, as i remember them from SBJL 58-66.
Kindergarten- Miss Glennan; 1st - sr ann philip; 2nd - sr christina maria - a real nut job, loved pulling the ears of both the boys and girls and sent alot of us home with earaches, also, never let anyone go to the bathroom which caused a few accidents for some. 3rd - Miss Driscoll, who was aunt of Jimmy McDonnell of Leahy-Mcdonnell Funeral Home. 4th - sr. alice loretto; 5th - sr. alma therese, a Real wacko. between this one and the principal at the time, during 63, 64, 65 i think, does anyone remember the name of that sadist, they tried to convince my mother to say novenas for me or, at the very least to get me an excorsim or something.
in the 62-63 5th grade, therese had 28 of us boys in the class and she gave 27 of us a U in conduct, then tried to tell the parents of all the boys that THEY had the problem. anyone remember the name of the one guy who got the A (i do)? 6th - sr. mary boromeo; 7th - sr james stephanie, was replaced by sr. maria pacis, one of the few who i got along with and gave me an even break. sr. maura joseph had the other 7th and was ok. 8th - sr regina rosaire (the penguin) replaced sr paul christie and sr john edmund (ok) had the other 8th. i think she had replaced sr edward muriel. sr marie de montfort had music all in all, despite some of the bad experiences with the nuns, there are some good memories. and i guess i didn't turn out so bad, despite alma therese. i think it was in 8th grade that they switched classes on us by subject, suppossedly to get us ready fo HS. i believe the lineup was sr maura had math, sr john had english and spelling, sr maria had science, and sr regina religion and history. i believe it was mr welch who was the custodian.
How about the priests of the time. i remember Msgr Hald who passed on during our graduating class of '66. i think Fr. Toomey took his place. BIG Fr. Schmidt (the best one to go to confession with), Fr. Tom Smith, Fr. Bill Smith, Fr. Scwarbrick, Fr. Pitsch, Fr. Wetzel, Fr Hunt, Fr. Condon. Benediction on friday afternoons, baseball in the spring, the falcons, royals, knights, celtics, flipping baseball cards and losing the ones you just bought at Gus's.
friday night dances and sunday night dances after the basketball games. the plays every year just before Christmas. remember the 3 tier benches that were always on the stage and were used year after year in probably every play. well, one year one of the guys picked away at the small rubber skid pad that was glued to the steps. i guess the custodian had to tell the nuns and something resembling the spanish inquisition was conducted to find out who picked away at the 2 or 3 inchs of missing rubber.
i think helen farley below said it best... our minds are still imprinted in the 50s & 60s; and at that time, Richmond Hill was some place to grow up in.
Added: June 16, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Mike Allocca
From: New Canaan, CT
E-mail: maallocca@sbcglobal.net

Danny Seaman:
I'd like to know more about the upcoming PS 121 golf outing on June 21. I went to 121 in 1954, '55 in the 7th and 8th grades and wonder if any of my classmates attended last year. I remember a teacher named Miss Ramsey who guided me and had a tremendous influence on the rest of my life.
Added: June 15, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
DR JOHN RODGERS
From: TERRA VISTA, FL
E-mail: drjohnrodgers@yahoo.com

Mr. Celeberti was one of the custodians at SBJL at least from 1954-1956.
He lived across the street from me (120th between Jerome and 97th with his daughter and her family. The other families who lived on our block and who had children attending SBJL were the Clarity's (Maureen, Dennis and others) and the Pier's (Lorraine and Janice) and the Jansens's and the Macalusos (Bennie and ???) I graduated in Jan 55 and these were younger than I.
My age group included Carol Ann Langton and Dorothy Devlin and Peter Gauthier.
Added: June 15, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Louise Garretto
From: Long Island, NY
E-mail: LMG821@hotmail.com

Actually, when I went to St. Benny's (graduating in 1966) the names of the two custodians were Mr. Welch and Mr. Celeberti.
Can you still here it coming over the loudpseaker... Mr. Welch, Mr. Celeberti, please go to the mezzanine and bring your mop.
Added: June 15, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Aurelia Santolla Kieffer
From: Midland, Texas
E-mail: fkief55224@aol.com

Yesterday was wonderful seeing old friends at the mass at St. Bennies.
Even though I went to Holy Child I was baptized at St. Bennies and had wonderful friends from there that I met at Mary Louis. Both the neighborhoods around St. Bennies and Kew Gardens on Metropolitan Ave, where I lived have changed so much.
Added: June 15, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Helen (Hopkins) Farley
From: Nesconset, NY
E-mail: helow143@optonline.net

Wow... a blast from the past.!.
My family home was on 123rd st, between Liberty and 103rd Ave. My Grandparents lived on 124th and Jerome and my aunts live on 124th between Jerome and 97th ave. I went to the closing Mass today at SBJL and renewed some friendships from long past and would love to renew more. I graduated in 1961 and my brother Gerard (Roddy) graduated in 1967...(I think). I also had a cousin whom I lost touch with (Mary Hopkins). I lived across the street from Tim Prior, Dennis and MaryJane Mead and Sharon Scheid. Went to Mary Louis and graduated in 1967 then to St. Clare's School of Nursing, then married, finished college and lost touch with wonderful friends.
I would love to hear from anyone during those years. Life was simple and filled with fun and adventure.
Today, we went on a tour of the old neighborhood... so much has changed but my mind still is imprinted in the 50's and 60's. Thank God for the memories and for the experience of SBJL.
Added: June 14, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
steve batthany
From: Seymour Johnson AFB NC USA
E-mail:

i ask, Are you sure the custodian @ St Bennies's wasn't Mr Sarling? thanks
Added: June 14, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Teresa Smith Pedone
From: NY/PA
E-mail: apedone@ptd.net

Todd Peter Kristian...
are you related to Patricia Kristian? If yes, I beleive she graduated with us in 1968 from SBJL.
Please tell her to email me to get information about our 7/25/09 Reunion dinner! Thanks so much!
Added: June 14, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
mark w young
From: Baton Rouge LA
E-mail: cocozak1@aol.com

here's one for the books; the custodians name who moped and washed the floors at st benes was mr salaberti.
Added: June 14, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Barbara Scott
From: East Hampton, CT
E-mail: barpom@sbcglobal.net

I grew up on 101St by Park Ln South. PS 66 to PS 90 to RHHS from '64 to '68.
Reading the posts has brought back a lot of memories. The Deli on 102, Mrs. Richards and Mrs Sheridan at PS 66 and dancing in the Maypole, the Spring Dance Fetes. Spending the day at the RKO for 25 cents, and on. Left for college in CT and returned only for visits. Lost touch with Marilyn Mack. Does anyone know where she is?
Thank you for the site!!!
Added: June 14, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Teresa Smith Pedone
From: NY/PA
E-mail: apedone@ptd.net

Sr. Grace Consuela - 4th grade, Sr. Mary John - 5th grade, Sr. Edward Mariel - 8th grade, Miss Glockenmeir - 3rd grade
Added: June 13, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Barb Wojtko
From: Colorado
E-mail: bwojtko@msn.com

Adding to the list of sisters at SBJL--
I had Sr. Mary Bertille in Kg, then Miss Glennon, Sr. Joseph Alphonse, Miss Kingston, Sr. Alice Loretto, Sr. Alma Therese, Sr. Anne Lorraine, Sr. James Stephanie, and Sr. John Edmund. Wonderful memories and a great place to grow up!
Love reading everyone else's posts here--thanks for keeping up this site!
Added: June 13, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Margaret Mary (Cooki Weir) Wieczerzak
From: New Bedford, Ma.
E-mail: legsunlimited@yahoo.com

Wow, my head is spinning just from reading a couple of pages.
I'm trying to place all the stores, restaurants etc. in my memories. One place I do remember is Jahn's. I was so sorry to read here that it closed I was thinking of taking a run out to RH, haven't been there in too many years to mention and I had intended to take a friend with me to attack the "kitchen sink", what a bummer.
Haven't read anything here so far about anyone who went to Our Lady of the Cenacle or Dominican Commercial High School. Speaking of Dominican does anyone have a yearbook (63-64-65 or 66) they'd be willing to part with? Or perhaps someone who would be willing to scan the graduating class of '66 pictures and send it to me? I've been hearing from some people on classmates.com and would love to put a face with their names. I grew up across from Jamaica Hospital anyone from there?
Added: June 13, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Steve Batthany
From: St Johnson Air Force Base NC
E-mail: ebatthany@aol.com

Remember these nuns at SBJL Sr Olivia (principle), Sr Simplicia (kindergarten; she's over 90 and still alive @ Maria Regina in Brentwood), Sr Maria Virgo (flunked all the 1st grade boys), Sr Helen Murial Librian, and 4th gr, Sr Maria Monica. Sr Marie De Montford Music became Directress of SJ order (taught me piano in the convent), Sr Helen Muriel, Sr Margeret Helena. Ms Glennon, Miss Russell, Sr Rose Therese and Sr Joseph Maria, that's from 1943-1952.
Please add they were great!
Added: June 12, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Mary Hamel
From: New Bedford, Ma.
E-mail: ma5hm@aol.com

Some names remembered from SBJL:
Sr. Mary Bertell K- Miss Glennon 1st Sr John Edmond 8th ? Sr. St James. Having a blonde and sr. moment, can't think of any more at this time. Anyone else remember the rest?
Added: June 11, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Todd Peter Kristian
From: Hilton Head, SC
E-mail: tpk1evp@aol.com

More St. Benny's nuns -
Sister Alma Teresa taught 5th grade, Sister Maura Joseph taught 7th, and Sister James Stephanie taught 8th. I believe Sister ?? Christi taught the other 8th grade class. Sister Saint Barabbas taught 2nd? grade.
Added: June 10, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Jim Burke
From: Long Beach, CA
E-mail:

Yes, the Q41 is a story.
It made the most turns of all the Green Line buses in order to cover all the territory that the straight line routes missed. So many turns that new bigger buses couldn't be assigned to the route through the narrow residential streets. I wonder how they're handling that now. Remember the drivers surrendering their receipts temporarily to the coin collector traffic cop near the terminal who would examine them while he worked? The drivers probably can't access the coins now.
And how about the policy of the Green Line owner (reputedly Jewish) whereby drivers would put a hand over the fare box when clergy boarded? My friend Eddie Reap, with close cropped hair and a buttoned up black raincoat once reaped the benefit.
Added: June 10, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
mary johnson
From: long branch nj
E-mail: mjohnson@pershing.com

Hello Friends! I was reading the latest posts on the site just now. Wow! What memories!
I remember the candy store on 111th Ave and 125th St; it was owned by a couple, Sam and Faye. I also recall the candy store up a few blocks on the same side of the street; it was owned by Abe and Minnie. Abe wouldn't serve the kids from St Teresa's hot dogs on a Friday. We couldn't eat meat on Friday's back then.
I hope everyone has a nice day and keep those memories alive. Regards Mary
Added: June 10, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Rita-Jane Baird
From: Los Angeles, CA
E-mail: BairdRJ@aol.com

I attended Our Lady of the Cenacle grammer school, Class of 1959.
I just found this site today and love reading all of the posts. I would love to know if the school is still there and if any other alums post here.
Added: June 9, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Steve Batthany
From: Seymour Johnson AFB
E-mail:

Jim Burke of coure you mean the Tablet Diocese of Brooklyn's weekly paper @ Hansen Place Bklyn miles better than any religious periodical I have ever seen mentioned recent article re death of Sr Margaret Helena @ 89 in Tablet 3-4 weeks ago.
The youngs Mark I didn't know but Bob the Father (union Carbide) Bob the son about 12-18 mo older than us and of corse Mary Anne who looked like Debby Reynolds only better I think she married a Dentist from Columbia Dent nice guy. The Q 41 turned at their corner.
Q 41 great Richmond Hill story it was possible to have 2 or 3 girlfriends on that line at the same time and still get your homework done.
Added: June 9, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Robert Boasi
From: Greenville South Carolina
E-mail: rboasi1226@aol.com

I lived on 115 St and 107 Ave From 1963 until 1988.
I went to Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic school. I graduated in 1976. I belonged to the Youth Council and for the last three years of the Genesis Players. I'm not "Loin" about that (Wizard of OZ). I also worked for the Marriott Corp. at JFK airport from 1976 to 1988.
Added: June 8, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Jim Burke
From: Long Beach, CA
E-mail:

126th St between 109th and Liberty was my Long Island Press route. (Most route workers, e.g. IPS's Doug Heffernan, incorrectly rhyme it with bout, forgetting the 66 on which we get our kicks) And who remembers "Taa-BLUT! five a copy" after mass?
Added: June 7, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
mark w young
From: baton rouge la
E-mail:

update on the nuns that taught at st benes. sr margarte helena taught fifth grade and took care of the library, sr alice loretta taught fourth grade, and sr ann cathalene taught 3rd grade. miss glenn taught 1st or second grade and was marty brackens aunt, sr saint dorthy was the shop teacher, and sr marie dermonfit was the music teacher.
i never forgot my st benedict josephs nuns.
Added: June 6, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Danny Seaman
From: Richmond Hill
E-mail: DannySea@aol.com

There will be a 121 Golf Outing on Long Island June 21,2009 Last year we had 90 golfers who use to hang out at PS 121
Added: June 5, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
frank mauro
From: ozone park
E-mail: frank.mauro@dhl.com

grew up in rh in 70s and 80s.
went to smgh and rhhs graduted in 1979 hung out at 62 park loved my childhood. can't think of anywhere else that was as great to grow up in. the boys club, forest park, so many memories.
Added: June 5, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Thomas Moylan
From: Bayshore L.I.
E-mail: sfacheem@optonline.net

Would like to know if any body knows when the 40th year reunion we'll be for R.H.H.S class of 69 Thanks
Added: June 5, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Jim Burke
From: Long Beach, CA
E-mail:

Mark Young, Bill and Ed Kammerer lived near you.
You were 10 years behind me in Mickey's. Guys my age switched to Andy's on Rockaway Blvd. Andy's roommate, bartender Joe Dooley came with us. Who were the old guys you remember?
Added: June 4, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
mark w young
From: baton rouge lousiana
E-mail:

graduated from st benes in 1960 and went to rhhs from 1960 to 1965. my address was 127-02 95 ave rite across from smokey park, the corner house wear the q41 made the turn to go to jamacia.
after Viet Nam, hung out in Mickeys on 101st ave.
Hello George Farell. The last time I saw you, you were on TV in a Cops uniform. Thanks for all these storys and memories.
Added: June 3, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Bill Cooper
From: New Orleans LA
E-mail: bill.cooper@deltacatering.com

Cool Site, grew up on 117st and 109 ave, worked on Liberty Ave as a stock boy at Ben's Army and Navy, played years of little league and soft ball up at Conduit, and then spent many a summer evening at Forest park or down at boardwalk in the Rockaways.
I took my 2 sons to Forest Park and rode "sleds" in not even a inch of snow on the golf course 2 yrs ago - a Great day again!!!!
Added: June 2, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
frank dunstatter
From: Houston, Texas
E-mail: fdunstatter@comcast.net

I was looking for Dunstatters clothing store in Richmond Hill. There was a second store in Forest Hills
Added: June 2, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Thomas Bausemer
From: Boston
E-mail: pisc373@yahoo.com

I'm looking for Michael Hedler.
We served together in Asia back in the 60s. If anyone can help me find "Hed" or any information i'd greatly appreciate it. Please email me or call 617-265-3055. I thoroughly enjoyed reading your guest book.
Added: May 31, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Tom Blank
From: Moriches, NY
E-mail:

C Benjamin:
I graduated from PS55 in 1950 and then went to PS57. The school was great then. Also it was started in 1938 and is now 70 years old. 20 years ago I answered a letter written by the 6th grade to me as I knew their teacher Mrs. Scorcia.
They asked me what the school was like when I went there, and I was fortunate to have my answer to them published in the 50 Year Journal.
I am happy to hear that PS55 is still a fine school. Tom Blank
Added: May 31, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Mary Woods
From: richmond hill
E-mail: jfredmcred@aol.com

Hi Chanell Benjamin,
I hope you have been enjoying all the messages from people who had a wonderful time growing up in your neighborhood.
Please keep writing and tell us what it is like to be a child today in Richmond Hill. What games do you play? Where do you meet your friends? What are your plans for the summer? How will you travel from 135 St. to 210? All the best to you and all your class mates at PS 55. Mary Woods
Added: May 30, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Rafael Rivas
From: Jacksonville, Florida U.S.A.
E-mail: Rafar63@gmail.com

Diana Wantola... If somebody know a person with this name, please, let her know that I want to contact her. My email is: Rafar63@gmail.com.
I'll be very happy if she respond to this message. Last time we see each other was in 1974, in San Jose, Costa Rica. Thank You for your help. Diana Wantola... If you see this message, write me a few letters, I'll be very happy if you do so. I realy want to know about you, it had past a long time since 1974.
Added: May 30, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Frank Wajert
From: San Diego, CA
E-mail: fwajert@sbcglobal.net

To Robert Bornschein,
I looked you up in the Archway 1960 yearbook. I remember your photo along with George Bonetti, Andy Brislin, Lynea Bernhard etc. I graduated from RHHS in 1961.
Worked in Jahn's when I was 19 or so. Also worked in the RKO Keiths as an usher. They don't have such things as ushers in movie theaters these days. Great place RH back in the 60's. Take care.
Added: May 28, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
chanell benjamin
From: 135 street, Richmond Hill
E-mail: chnllb@aol.com

i go to ps.55q and it a great school and next year i plan on going to 210 and ps55 is a great school no violance and fight at all and it a boy and girl school.
Added: May 28, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Stan Oleysyck
From: Las Vegas, NV
E-mail: smo3549@cox.net

TO: Joann Cutichio Rodecker
First, please say hello to Joey, I'm glad that time and the years have been good to him and his family, yes, the name Richie Broadhurst is definitely a name from the past. I wonder if Joey or Richie remembers me from school, the neighborhood, or maybe from the Sea or Boy Scouts.
Its been over forty-five years but, if my memory serves me correctly there were two candy stores on the corners of Lefferts Blvd and 111th Ave – one actually on the southwest corner closest to PS 100 (probably Dave's Cozy Corner) and one just off the northeast corner, operated by a husband and wife. (Names unknown)
The RHHS GuestBook is one of my treasured places to reminisce, it provides a heartfelt smile, and fulfills a special inner emotion through a revisit to places and acquaintances of our youth. Another valued place for fun memories of 50s and 60s "Oldies but, Goodies" music like "Whispering Bells" by the Del Vikings, "White Christmas" by the Drifters, "Jimmy Mack" by Martha and The Vandellas, or "You Send Me" by Sam Cooke try, http://www.jango.com/music and enjoy!
Like you, and I, and so many kids Saturday afternoon matinees at the Lefferts theater was a hard habit to break. In addition, to the free giveaways which I believe I got a "Captain Video" space helmet, I remember seeing, "Dean Martin & Jerry Lewis" live on stage to promote one of their films, and when my Mom would take me to "Dish Night", with audience applause when someone would drop their dish!
Do you remember…going to Rockaway Beach for a swim, or Coney Island to eat hot dogs and potato knishes at Nathan's, or "Sliders," at White Castle on Rockaway Blvd, near Woodhaven Blvd, or Carlo's Pizza at Liberty Ave and Lefferts Blvd. (15 cents a slice) or, when it took five minutes for the TV to warm up.
No one ever asked where the car keys were because they were always in the car, in the ignition, and the doors were never locked? Newsreels before the movie, P.F. Fliers, Telephone numbers with a word prefix... (EVergreen 4-601). Decisions were made by going "eeny-meeny-miney-moe"? Mistakes were corrected by simply exclaiming, "Do Over!"? "Race issue" meant arguing about who ran the fastest? Catching the fireflies could happily occupy an entire evening?
Pass these memories on to your brother Joey… I double-dog-dare-ya!
Added: May 25, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
James O' Brien
From: Richmond Hill, N.Y.
E-mail:

I'm writing to set the record straight for all of you past graduates of St. Benedict Joseph Labre.
More than a few financially prosperous alumni who attended the recent "open house" offered considerable sums of money, on an ongoing basis, in order to keep the school open and operating, but were turned down for their efforts. The truth is, there was no desire on the part of the clergy nor the school administrators to fight for the school's survival. The enrollment and tuition expectations were well within the range to allow the school to continue to stay open, even in spite of the fact that the majority of the students who attend are non-Catholic. St. Benedict Joseph Labre is unfortunately yet another casualty in the typically short-sighted Diocese of Brooklyn's so-called "re-structuring" plan for Catholic education.
It is precisely this attitude that will eventually result in the steady decline and collapse of our once proud system of Parochial education. Without their schools, how can the Catholic church survive in today's secular environment? It is a question the Diocese should ponder... Their solutions hardly seem Christian.
Added: May 22, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
joann cutichio rodecker
From: east islip ny
E-mail: joannrodecker@yahoo.com

To Stanely Oleysyck. Joey Cutichio is my older brother.
I seem to remember you from my RH days. My friend lived in the corner of 122st and Linden Blvd. My brother left P.S. 121 and went to Jefferson H.S. Yes, I remember the candy store on 125st. We would Hang out there after school or on weekends. Do you remember Richie Broadhurst, a good friend of Joes. He lived up by Lefferts Blvd. Did you go to the Lefferts theater every Saturday? Remember the free giveaways for the first 100 kids? Either popcorn or space helmets. What about Daves Cozy Corner by P.S. 100 at Lefferts and 111th Ave? Joey now lives in Patchouge L.I. and has 4 grandchildren. He's come a long way from Richmond Hill. Joann Cutichio Rodecker
Added: May 20, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Diane Vigliette Haumann
From: Wellington, FL
E-mail: dianehaumann@mac.com

Hi, I am looking for some of my old classmates from Saint Benedict Joseph Labre School, Class of '57.
Just heard they are closing the school this year and are having a Dinner/Dance in the school's honor this coming October 24. There is info on the SBJL website.
It would be fun to see some of you there.
Added: May 20, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Art Bornschein Sr.
From: Williamsburg, Va.
E-mail: artieb1@cox.net

First let me say Hey! to cousin Bob, Jim Burke, Ken Ball, who have signed on lately. Secondly, it's funny how some of the messages get tied in somehow. To Steve, (what are you smokin") it was Jimmy Durante who sang "Inka Dinka Doo". Yes, Jimmy did stop by on 103rd. occasionally, (if you noticed Bob B.'s address, it was in the area of 123 St. & 103 rd. Ave.) Also, Bob also mentioned a friend of his (now deceased) Anthony "Durante". Ronnie Bornschein's name was also mentioned, he's my younger brother living on L.I. It is great to read of the games and places everyone writes about that are so familiar in my mind, like it was yesterday. It does bring back memories of some of the "hooples", to say the least, i.e., Tommy Brody who shot and killed the bar owner Westfall on 111 St. and Atlantic Ave. Drugs did bring down a lot of people from "the hood" at early ages, (does anyone remember Eddie Pizzarelli from 126 St.?) Well, most of us survived through our own ambition and values. God Bless St. Bennie's for having something to do with it.
Added: May 19, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Robert Rosener
From: Morristown, NJ
E-mail: rosener1@aol.com

Graduated from SBJL in 1958. My father owned Gus's Deli on the corner of 117th & 95th Ave.
Trying to find out the location of a few old friends that I have lost contact with over the past years. They are Jack Bracken, who became a priest, John Henry who lived on 118th near SBJL church, Joe & Mary Minogue who lived on 95th Avenue, between 116th & 117th, Mary & Peggy Maher who lived close to the Minogue's, and John D'mato, who last I knew lived in Las Vegas.
It would be great if you could let me know if you know the location of any of these individuals. They all graduated from SBJL in the 1957 to 1959 era.
Added: May 18, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Jim Burke
From: Long Beach, CA
E-mail:

e (e cummings) batthany: Trick, incomplete question. Thanks for the Memories.
Added: May 18, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Stan Oleysyck
From: Las Vegas, NV
E-mail:

TO: Joann Cutichio Rodecker
During the 1950's through 1970's my family lived on 122nd St, between 111th Ave and Linden Blvd - one block south of you! I attended PS 100, 121 and also John Adams. I remember your last name "Cutichio" but seem to remember a Joey Cutichio, he lived on the east side of 122nd - between 109th and 111th. Did you have a brother named Joey also? If not, sorry for the mistake.
Anyway, do you remember Gillespie's Bar on 111th between 122nd and 123rd St. How about the church on the corner of 122nd St and 111th Ave? The Green Bus Line Q41 ran along 111th Ave and the Q10 ran north/south on Lefferts Blvd.
I also remember Saturday afternoons at the Lefferts Theater and the candy store at 125th St. and 111th Ave.
Added: May 18, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
steve batthany
From: Seymour Johnson AFB, NC
E-mail:

Sorry all you Durante fans, it's Bob Hope!
Added: May 17, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
George W. Pett
From: Valdosta, Georgia
E-mail: georgepett@bellsouth.net

First things first- "Inka Dinka Doo" Jimmy Durante! gotta be!
Secondly - I attended Richmond Hill High School up until 1959 when we moved to Elton Street in East New York, Brooklyn (ie: Goodfellas) and I hated it when they told me I could no longer attend RHHS, and had to transfer to Alexander Hamilton VHS I only went there for a year, then dropped out and joined the Air Force.
One of the good things I remember from my "new" neighborhood was Sal's bar and grill (ristorante') on Liberty Avenue and (I think) Shepherd Street! It was without a doubt the best Italian cuisene I ever tasted!
Now before all of you jump on me for that statement, and tell me how good some other place was, let me say I believe it was due to two main reasons. #1 - Sal brought his Chef's over from Italy as a way of helping them get established in the USA, and #2 - they only bought the very best quality of produce (meats and cheeses, etc).
I went there to visit about 1993 and sad to say Sal's was no longer open, but closed after Sal died. (like so many similiar places in RH) When I read Teresa Smith Pedone's posting on May 5, 2009 that SBJL '68 reunion was going to be at Joe Abbracciamento's in Rego Park on 7/25/09 - the lights flashed in my dusty attic of a memory!!! Abbracciamento! That was Sal's last name! I don't know how common that name is in the Italian community, but I'd be willing to bet theres a connection.
I remember learning that Perry Como was related also (a cousin I think) - some of you who will attend that reunion, or who live near enough to Joe's in Rego Park - please ask them about Sal's, I'd love to know, and please, tell them what I said about Sal's - great food, great memories, great time in my life! God Bless to all....
Added: May 15, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Jim Burke
From: Long Beach, CA
E-mail:

Steve B.
I guess you mean Inka Dinka Doo. I remember when Durante was seeing a girl on 103rd Ave. We used to go look at his lavender Cadillac.
Added: May 15, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Janet Brown
From: Las Vegas, NV
E-mail: jazzyree@cox.net

Hey, Robert Bornschein, are you at all related to Ronnie Bornschein? He was one of my first crushes and definitely one of my first kisses. How innocent and precious is that?
Added: May 15, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
steve batthany
From: Seymour Johnson AFB NC
E-mail: ebatthany@aol.com

More Nostalgia
happened to be at my grandaaughters' First Communion In Bkyln this past weekend "a beutiful event innocent boys and girls in white and blue growing up with their real and their supernatural Parents. I was leaving the church when I grabbed a newspaper "the Brooklyn Tablet for the first time in 60 years.
Like all NYC ites I headed for the obituary page and there was a picture of sommeone who had taught me how to be a dodger fan; how to make my Confirmation and who taught many fourth grader our first social studies and long division.
Sr Margarte Helena SJ had passed away peacefully, another benchmark of catholic girls and boys. Over sixty years in the service of God and her kids.
Anyone out there that was a sudent of this wonderful teacher should recall her with love and pray for her eternal rest Of this was St Bennies and not the slide in the Kindergarten or the shop. How lucky we "WERE".
Never a post without a ?? what song known to all and sung by a big nosed vaudevillian, is it from... PS, it was his theme song.
Added: May 14, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Robert D. Bornschein
From: Palm City, Florida
E-mail: RDBornschein@aol.com

I grew up in Richmond Hill, went to R.H.H.S., and graduated in 1960. I lived at 121-14 103rd. Avenue. My close friends were Ralph Frank who lived opposite us on 103rd. ave., Ernie Durso, Anthony Durante (now unfortunately deceased), Charlie Lieske, earlier, Freddie Kauz of 124th. street, and Evelyn Carney also of 124th street. My cousins, Artie, Eddy, Danny all lived nearby and we got to see extended family quite often. Aunts, Uncles, Grandparents, etc. Nothing like today with everyone scattered here and there.
It was a wonderful place to grow up in. We played in the streets, and all of the Mother's looked out for us. Stickball, bike riding, tag, well it was a fun time to grow up in and we were an hour away from the "City"
We went back a few years ago and discovered you cannot go back. Everything is changed, now it's a multicultural mix of people, Indian, Guyanese, etc. Our house now has four families living in it!
My memories of Richmond Hill are fondly etched into my being, and it's a big part of me.
Added: May 14, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Dougie Flynn
From: merrick ny
E-mail:

Janet Goddard I had the BIGGEST crush on Pat .
I think she took over 7th grade for awhile. I remember talking about the most ridicules stuff just to garner her attention. She would see right through and always respond with "I'm Sure" just to get me to be quiet. She was great.
That's one of many memories I have of Benny-Jo's. Dougie Flynn
Added: May 14, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
George Patton Jr
From: Rhode Island
E-mail: aristarcus2@aol.com

What a wonderful site – just packed with fond memories!
But let me go back to an era that is not apparent in these entries; when the Van Wyck Expressway was VAN WYCK BOULEVARD – an ordinary paved street with retail establishments at the corner of Linden Blvd, and when the HOLLWOOD SHOE POLISH company was located close to the intersection of VWB and JEROME AVENUE.
It was pre-war time and I'd like to make contact with anyone that has PS 121 memories, (1937 through 1945); JAHN'S ICE CREAM PARLOR, a little later (1948 through 1950) and MARSHALL'S CAFÉ (next to the KEITH'S THEATRE).
I was part of an extended gang that hung out at Jahn's and Marshall's and the names that come to mind are legion. However, I find that at age 78 many of my contemporaries have checked out.
If someone catches this entry, I stand ready and anxious to share a zillion recollections of the neighborhood.
Added: May 14, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Laura Goddard
From: Chesapeake, VA
E-mail: waddayadoin866@aol.com

I've been on this site several times in the past 2 or 3 years and never posted anything until now.
I guess SBJL closing has made me so sad. I have great memories of my time at that school (8 years worth). It is such a shame. All my brothers and sisters went there as well. And yes, my sister, Pat, was a substitute teacher there. Hope there is a great turnout for the SBJL Farewell Dinner.
Hey, Maryanne Gordon, hows it goin'? Your family is like family to me (and the rest of us), and I hope everybody's doing OK. In fact, when I was little, I really thought we were related. I remember asking my mother, who I knew didn't have a sister, if my "Aunt" Dotty was her cousin!
Added: May 13, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Janet Goddard Brown
From: Las Vegas, NV
E-mail: jazzyree@cox.net

116th Street between 95th Ave. and 101st Ave. -
what a great place to grow up. The Goddards, the Ferrins, the Keatings, the Lowreys, the McQuillans, the Gordons, the Peshlers - I could go on and on. The street was always full of kids hanging out on stoops or riding bikes or playing stickball or having a game of chinese handball against the garages on the corner of 116th and 95th.
I wish I had a penny for every time I went into Granny's or Gussies candy store. What wonderful memories. My parents still live in the same house on 116th Street. I'm hoping to see many of my friends from the class of '72 (and from my brother Kenny's class of '71, too) at the St. Bennies dinner in October. I wouldn't miss it for the world. Let's all make it a fabulous evening and close St. Bennies with the event it so deserves.
And, Dougie Flynn - yes, it was my sister Pat who was a substitute teacher in the early 70's. Was she ever tough on me!
Added: May 13, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Dougie Flynn
From: Merrick, NY
E-mail:

Pat Goddard,
Did you teach at Benny's briefly, or was that your sister Karen?
Added: May 11, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Dolly Thompson
From: Long Island
E-mail:

Mike Sharkey - any relation to Susan? Just wondering. I knew her when we were children. Thanks.
Added: May 11, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
RICH THORNTON
From: WILLISTON PARK L.I.
E-mail: rich7308@aol.com

Bobbie Bass
I am one of the gang from 110th St between Jamaica Ave & Atlantic Ave. I do know what happend to a number of the kids you asked about. I am also one of the "Catholic Kids" that hung out in Poppies.
E-mail me and I will let you know. Rich
Added: May 11, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Ken Fahrbach
From: Punta Gorda Fl
E-mail:

Hey April, Karen and Ken Ball
Thank you all for clearing up the anniversary day... it has been driving me crazy trying to remember what it was all about… the old movie film shows the floats and the bikes all done up in color paper and the different age groups marching by… I am putting it into a DVD… my sister (Georgeanna) and her kids and yours truly are in the film with a cast of hundreds (well sorta)...
I do not know if the historical soc. would like a copy … it has to be from the late 50's early 60's based on my age at the time and the cars shown.
Got a kick out of the Jonny ride the pony thread… yea piling on was the goal to break the pony's back... lol... Winner was the group that could hold the most opposing players without collapsing... at least that is my memory… I bet the girls won the forest park match… lol Ken…
I was at ps66 about 1946 thru 50, K to 4 or 5 can't remember when we moved over to ps90. HS graduation would have been 59 from RHHS had I stayed in the city.
Added: May 11, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Greg O'Malley
From: Minnesota/Wisconsin DMZ
E-mail: theomalice@yahoo.com

I played a lot of Johnny-on-a-pony in Astoria when I was little kid, but it wasn't in fashion when we moved to Richmond Hill in '68.
We did play a butt-load of chinese handball though. We had a perfect wall and sidewalk at the corner of 116th ST and 101st AVE. The "orange" bldg. Penalty for losing? Asses Up, natch!
Added: May 11, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Liz Michael
From: Florida
E-mail: redonionsauce@aol.com

My Great Grandparents lived at 38 131st Street.
Their names were Harry and Frieda Magee. They had several children. Robert, Margarit, Harry, William, Dorothy, Gerard and probably a few more. The house is still there. I compared it to a photo 1960 I have of my father's cousin, Frances Geiger on the front stoop.
Frances is Dorothy Magee Geiger's daughter. Gerard formed Magee Fuel Oil in Babylon. I am trying to find Frances or her brother. They would be in their 70's. Does anyone remember them?
Added: May 10, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Pat Goddard Friedhoff
From: Mahwah, New Jersey
E-mail: patsingstoo@aol.com

Hi Everybody, I just attended the walk-through at SBJL last month. The school looks great and it's so sad to know that it's doors will be closing. Saw a few faces from the past, wish there had been more of them in attendance that day.
I graduated from St. Benny's in 1963 -- but I have lots of siblings -- do you know any of them? Linda '60 (now Mancini), Paul '62, Karen '68? (now Kolb -- yes married to Johnny Kob), Kenny '69?, Janet '71? (now Brown) and Laura '78 (Goddard again).
We have a table at the dinner dance in October -- Mom & Dad will be going too (Eleanor & Clyde). It promises to be a great night. Hope all you alumnae can be there to share stories and reminisce.
Anybody out there going??? Hope to see you there.
Added: May 10, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Linda Roberti Leisen
From: East Meadow, New York
E-mail:

Just found this site. Enjoyed reading the history.
I grew up in Richmond Hill, 115 St., between 95th and Atlantic. My siblings and I went to St. Benny's. So sad that it is closing.
I have such great memories of my childhood in RH.
Added: May 9, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
mike sharkey exq
From: columbus ohio
E-mail: sharkey5@juno.com

saw the site while trying to figure out how to beat the high hotel rates in NYC. our dgt is in brooklyn, and the mrs and i hope to visit her. thinking about flying into the LI airport LIRR to jamacia and find a hotel there. stay on train for visits to dgt and manhatten. wondered if the elevated is the LIRR route?
enjoyed your history often worndered how plank roads were built and nice story about the tunnels in nam. i'm 67 grad, wife is 68. any ideas on history of long is manufacturers? I have an early electric oven that looks like a big old toaster. it has a grill on top, oven inside, with rotisseree. thanks mike
Added: May 7, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
steve batthany
From: Seymour Johnson AFB NC
E-mail: ebatthany@aol.com

That's right Johnny on a pony no Piling on and now for the 25Cent pitchers of beer and I'll go softly into the night without even asking about purees & KABOLAS
Added: May 7, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Jim Burke
From: Long Beach, CA
E-mail:

I thought the whole idea of Jonnny-ride-a-pony was to pile on. One great RH tale was of the guys meeting some wild girls at Forest Park who played JRAP with them.
Added: May 6, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Frank Ciccone
From: Long Beach, N.Y.
E-mail: fcciccone@aol.com

Piling on... a term used in the playing of Johnny on the pony, I believe.
Added: May 6, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Richard Massey
From: New York, N.Y.
E-mail: masseyrf@yahoo.com

Hi Mike..... That would be me - I remember you stopping in for a beer when you finished the nite shift @ delta airlines. Hope all is well - Best Regards
Added: May 6, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Jim Burke
From: Long Beach, CA
E-mail:

How old are you? Remember the "Family Window" in the saloon? Women and children could get the growler filled without going inside. There was one at the bar on the south side of Liberty Ave between 128th & 129th.
Wikipedia: Growlers got their name from the sound that the CO2 made when it escaped from the lid as the beer sloshed around. It likely dates back to the late 19th century when fresh beer was carried from the local pub to one's home by means of a small-galvanized pail
Added: May 6, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
johnny kolb (kob)
From: Atlantic Ave & Lefferts Blvd (across from Lenihans)
E-mail: johnnyjack55@aol.com

anyone heard from Peter Matura 116 St SBJL Teen Club Guy
Added: May 5, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Teresa Smith Pedone
From: PA/NY
E-mail: apedone@ptd.net

SBJL Reunion (Class of '68) will be held at Joe Abbracciamento's in Rego Park on 7/25/09. Please email me if you are interested in attending. Others from different graduating years attending too!
Added: May 5, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Mike Hans
From: Albany NY
E-mail: mihans@live.com

Hey R Massey...
Are you the same guy that use to fill-in tending bar at Mickey's when Skip Dooley or Richie Carey needed some time off???
Added: May 5, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Jim Burke
From: Long Beach, CA
E-mail:

To AF Batthany:
You got me on "piling on". All I can think of is unwelcome hitchhikers on a belly whop. Could you get beer on Sunday morning at the Brooklyn brewery? More Sunday morning beer guesses:
American Legion Hall? VFW? I do remember one Jerome Ave bar we could sneak in and hide away from the window. Each week the crowd got bigger and bigger and the owner was afraid to stop it. I think Marty Schattner started that. He told his mom for years that he was going to the 12:15. I forget how he got palm for Palm Sunday.
Added: May 5, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
steve batthany
From: Seymour Johnson AFB NC
E-mail: ebatthany@aol.com

This'll be the last one for while!
Where could you get a full pitcher of Shaefer Beer in Richmond Hill (a stretch) even on a Sunday morning for 25Cents??
Added: May 4, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
steve batthany
From: Seymour Johnson AFB NC
E-mail: ebatthany@aol.com

to Jimmy Burke, you got eggies right, now let's go for 3, how about this one, "no Piling on".
We were decorating our bikes with crepe paper to go in the Anniversary parade but my mom was a staunch Catholic and told us No. But Ma, they have ice cream and cake and Micky Mouse cartoons, Sooo, she said ok, eat the ice cream and watch the movies but DON't sing any songs. it seems like yesterday (1943) R Massey yes Cecelia is my younger & only sister. she just retired as assistant principal @ Aviation Trade HS in Sunnyside.
Added: May 4, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Tim Murphy
From: Lynbrook
E-mail:

A "johnny pump" was a fire hydrant.
Added: May 2, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
HONEY CHAMBERS
From: NORFOLK, VA.
E-mail:

A "Johnny Pump" is a fire hydrant!! In New York that is what we called them and I still do till this day!!
Some things from New York follow us all the way!!
Added: May 2, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Jim Burke
From: Long Beach, CA
E-mail:

A "johnnie pump" is a fire hydrant (derivation?). The Protestant churches gave out ice cream on Anniversary Day. Sam Levinson said if they wanted to convert us all they had to do was feed us.
Wikipedia: A fire hydrant (also known colloquially as a fire plug in the United States or as a johnny pump in New York City, because the firemen of the late 1800s were called Johnnies
Added: May 2, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Dennis Mooney
From: Los Angeles, Ca.
E-mail: moon6666@verizon.net

A Johnny Pump is a Fire Hydrant!!!
Added: May 2, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Jim Burke
From: Long Beach, CA
E-mail:

In an Italian restaurant in Hollywood I was chatting with the owner, another former New Yorker. I told him I was from Ozone Park. He apparently perceived that I was non-Italian and said "You must be a fireman or a cop"
Added: May 2, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Teresa Smith Pedone
From: NY/PA
E-mail: apedone@ptd.net

Does anyone remember what a 'johnny pump' was?
Added: May 2, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
April Kostere
From: Richmond Hill
E-mail:

Hi Ken & Karen:
I was one of the marchers in the Anniversary Day parade one year with St. Paul's Lutheran church on 114th St. directly across the street from RHHS. (The pastor's name has slipped my mind, but I could never look him directly in the eye, so he must have been doing a good job.) I believe Ann. Day was one of the public school holidays in June that caused great consternation in my Catholic school friends.
Now over 50 years later, I remember 2 things about that day: The colorful floats and a classmate from P.S. 62 waving to me from the sidewalk "crowd". I guess we made an unusual sight in the neighborhood.
Added: May 2, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Jim Burke
From: Long Beach, CA
E-mail:

What is the derivation of "eggies"? (Long form: "Gimme eggies")
Added: May 2, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
edward bornschein
From: east rockaway ny
E-mail: eddieb1222@aol.com

i saw somebody was called alley oop. does any one know who that is? did he own a corvette with that name and did he take it to a gas station on the north conduit and 123 st. for repair's?
Added: May 1, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
DR JOHN RODGERS
From: TERRA VISTA, FL
E-mail: drjohnrodgers@yahoo.com

"Eggies" had to do with sharing in a purchase, perhaps a soda, or an ice cream. It was called out by someone who was not the purchaser. "No eggies" was what the purchaser tried to call out before anyone else called "eggies."
Added: May 1, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
dennis j mead
From: sayreville n.j.
E-mail: homewrecker611@aol.com

I grew up at 103-25 123 St with kid brother Gerry and sis Maryjane... We went to St Bennys when I graduated in '65...
My mom Doris taught school at St Sylvesters at Grant Avenue at Citi Line... I graduated from Bklyn Tech in 1969... And I just retired of a career in the Subways after 35 years... My sweetheart Alice Carter and I have been married and she continues to work at the 95 and 4th Ave Train Station... Richmond Hill will forever be a great place to be... Bye, Bye
Added: May 1, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Jim Burke (my sisters still call me Jimmy)
From: Long Beach, CA
E-mail:

"Eggies" was a request (demand?) that your friend share what he was eating. I guess the protocol was that if you yelled "No eggies" first you didn't want to or have to share.
Added: May 1, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
richard massey
From: new york, n.y.
E-mail: masseyrf@yahoo.com

steve -
calling "eggies" entitled the caller to a share of your candy, lunch etc. I grew up on 118th st. between atlantic and 91st ave hung out at the ice cream parlor on 118th & atlantic later at Mickey's Tavern 118th & Jerome ave. Graduated from SBJL 1959 - I went to school with Celia Batthany your sister?
Added: May 1, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
steve batthany
From: Goldsboro NC
E-mail: aebatthany@aol.com

Here's another from the past you all should get it. Who remembers what "Eggies"and "no Eggies" meant?
Added: April 30, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Stan Turetsky
From: Bohemia, NY
E-mail: s.turetsky@att.net

I grew up in the apartment house on 120th Street (103-35 120th), just north of Liberty Avenue. I'd love to hear from anyone who lived there when I was a kid.
My father's family lived above the candy store on Liberty next to the Flower Shop (Laskas or Rigas) so I was second generation Richmond Hill. It was a great place to grow up. We knew all of the store owners - Brills, Karps, Sam and Joe, etc.
I became a teacher and then assistant principal at Richmond Hill High School and was there for 25 years.
I also graduated from the Hill and am currently organizing my class of 1959's 50th reunion. Any 59ers out there, please get in touch at RHHS59@att.net -- Stan Turetsky
Added: April 29, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Brion Nantista
From: Bohemia, NY
E-mail: brion.j.nantista@boeing.com

Mille the Matron... Now that brings back some memories!
I remember sitting in the balcony with my Boy's Club buddy Jack Pelter on a saturday afternoon and Millie telling us we wern't allowed up there and we had to go back downstairs. Jack asked why and Millie responded with " Because meatballs don't bounce... Now get downstarirs". Thats when I chimed in with a few choice words after which we were promptly tossed on to the curb.
During the long walk home me and Jack kept repeating "Because Meatballs Don't Bounce?" as we desperately attempted to make some sense of Millie's rhetoric. I didn't return to the scene of the crime until I was 15 and went to see Night of The Living Dead. This was in the mid 70's when Liberty Ave was the place to be.
There was the Army Navy store (Free on the spot pants hemming) Goody's, Dadson's, St Johns, and some good pizza places.
Added: April 29, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
mary johnson
From: long branch nj
E-mail: mjohnson@pershing.com

Hi Friends from Richmond Hill! Happy Easter and Happy spring.
With weather getting nicer I will be making visits back to the old neighborhood to visit some family and friends who still live there. They also live in surrounding areas of Ridgewood and Glendale. The Allied Vets parade along Myrtle Ave between those two communities is one of my favorites and I never miss it.
I spent some happy married years in those neighborhoods. But always remember Richmond Hill. I do remember you, Bernard Boyle. I do remember your Mom; didn't she work for St Teresa's school, if I am not mistaken.
I live at the shore these days in Long Branch, a nice community in Monmouth County NJ. It has some things in it that would remind one of Richmond Hill, the way it was. Well I hope you have a nice day. It is good to be remembered, right? Regards Mary
Added: April 29, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Karen Beebe Nordman
From: Maryland
E-mail:

Ken Fahrbach -- I grew up on 87th Ave. between 102 and 104 Streets. Went to P.S. 66, P.S 90 and RHHS graduating in 1960.
I remember a lot of what you posted. Anniversary Day was the parade you mentioned. All the Protestant Churches participated and it was in honor of the first Sunday School.
I'm looking for any info on a 50th Reunion from RHHS for the class of 1960. We attended the 50th Anniversay of my husband's Class (1958 last year on L.I. and had a good time). Karen Beebe Nordman
Added: April 29, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
ivelise rivera
From: royal palm beach (paradise)
E-mail: iveliserr@aol.com

I found this web site by accident in tears joyful tears that is it bring back so many memories.
Iam probbably to young to remember all but living in richmond hill back in 1976 the year we moved in until we moved out back in 1997 (oct 17) were the best years i could spend growing up as a kid into a young women.
I remember walking to lewis of woodhaven on saturdays, thom mac cann and jason toy store from were we lived on 125 and jamacia ave (86-43). It's so funny! that old man sharpening our knives and sometimes you walk by and you get a glimspe of his little shop. Walking to the corner and having four stores to choose from. Even walkig to jr high 217 was an experience over the overpass up the stairs above the highway. I remember my mom walking me until 1 turned 14. Something kids won't be caught doing now a days.
thanks for the site and memories. ivy rivera ramos (40).
Added: April 28, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Jim Burke (my sisters still call me Jimmy)
From: Long Beach, CA
E-mail: jimburke46@hotmail.com

Who remembers?
The south side of Liberty Ave westward from the library at 130th St (Dentist upstairs), Lareno's candy store, Andy & Oscars Diner where we negotiated the suitable volume of the jukebox; the little tailor shop with a man's suit on a chair in the front window advertised with a sign: "mit 2 per pens", Olsen's Deli - son Johnnie was the rich kid in the gang, lived across Liberty on the next block upstairs from Tunick's "Dept Store".
How about "The Chimes" bar about 124th St? The owner broke from tradition charging 10 cents for a beer instead of 15 with no buy-back on the 4th beer. He'd have to try explaining all day that that was a better deal. I saw a play in Hollywood about a NY bar, "In Arabia We'd All Be Kings". I had to explain "buy-back" to other people in the audience.
A local guy returned from a stint in the Merchant Marine, bought The Chimes and reinvented it and himself with a hand-painted sign: "Sailor John's". I forget how he handled buy-backs.
Added: April 28, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
richard mcdermott
From: Washington DC
E-mail: mcdermottr@yahoo.com

#1: The Names of the mgr (with a Limp) of the Lefferts Theatre and his short female assistant with a flashlight?? Millie was the Matron at Lefferts.
#2: Does any one know where Eldee Lombardi's was before it was on Liberty and 116th?? Eldee moved to 123rd street and Liberty. I remember the owner looked like Roy Orbison.
I was 10 in 1970 thats what I remeber as a little kid
Added: April 27, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Art Bornschein Sr.
From: Williamsburg, Va.
E-mail: artieb1@cox.net

I believe the name of the manager of the Lefferts movie was Barney. Don't remember the name of the "matron", except for the fact that she swung a mean flashlight.
Also remember that the lower and front row seats were "hard hat areas". The group graduated from throwing candy to throwing wooden armrests.
Added: April 27, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Dorothy Thom
From: Long Island
E-mail:

Thomas O'Connor -
I recently visited my old address in Richmond Hill. I can assure you that there is no way the neighborhood can ever go back to the way it was. We now have only our memories of what was once a great neighborhood and this site. I love this site.
Added: April 27, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Dorothy Thom
From: Long Island
E-mail:

Steve - I don't remember the manager, but the lady with the flashlight was Millie.
Added: April 27, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
george farrell
From: st. louis, MO
E-mail: mcy2@aol.com

To Jimmy Burke...
Adrian Wayne "Lefty" Burke was a legendary athlete in the 60's and 70's with the speed of a gazelle. I remember two of his kid brothers, Jeff Burke, who was a LRRP hero in Viet Nam and young Jimmy Burke who was a great basketball player. Jimmy played at Marquette for Al McGuire.
Some great athletes and great guys came out of St. Teresa's in those days. The McCabe boys, the McKillop boys, the Calder boys, the Buckley boys, Tom Sowinski, Bob Oliva, the Marchetti brothers, the list goes on and on. Brings back wonderful memories.
Added: April 27, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Jim Burke (my sisters still call me Jimmy)
From: Long Beach, CA
E-mail:

Steve Bathany
I seem to remember a local legend about the Lefferts manager getting the limp by being thrown out of the balcony by some neighborhood tough. Let's see what bits others can add.
Added: April 26, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Frank Biscay
From: Iselin, NJ
E-mail: Bisc928@aol.com

To Steve Batthany's Trivia
answer to #4-- Idelwild changed to Kennedy sometime in 1964. I know there was an airshow sometime in 1947 because an unseen jet passed over the crowd and scared the s--t out of everyone. I know it was open for business in 1947 because my uncle flew on Northwest from there to Tokyo, Japan to become a Jesuit missionary.
You stumped me on the other three questions!
Added: April 26, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Kenneth Ball
From: Ocala, Florida
E-mail: knkball@att.net

I wonder Ken Fahrbach, if we attended P.S. 66 at the same time, your name sounds familiar to me.
Do you recall Mrs Morrissey or Mrs. Sheridan or possibly Mrs Richards and Mrs Wheeler and Mrs. Leaviness our principle, a nice lady.
Remember Jackson's pond and slipping under the turnstile on the 104th street El, I only did it once, remember the Army / Navy surplus store between 102nd and 104th street on Jamaica Ave.
How about the little Deli across the street from the P.S. 66 play ground, I always ate in the school cafeteria, Mrs Smith, I believe ran it back in the early fifties.
If any of this sounds familiar let me know. Ken Ball, Sunny San Diego
Added: April 26, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Ray Kelly
From: Ocala, Florida
E-mail: rjk412@yahoo.com

I was reading the comments of Ken Farbach who lived at 90-14 102 street and it brought back many memories.
At Bond bread it was saturday night we use to get the bread right out of the oven on 91 Ave. I lived at 102-06 90 Ave. from the 1930s until the 1950s.
I went to Holy Child and RHHS and raised my children on 92 ave and 102 street. I also have memories of the soupbowl at Forest park and Pecks bar on Jamaica Ave.
I still go back there every year as my children live on L.I.
Added: April 25, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Jim Burke (my sisters still call me Jimmy)
From: Long Beach, CA
E-mail:

Alley OOp Bathany:
We were just talking abouy Millie at the Lefferts. You'll have to Google the other items
Added: April 25, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Bobby Hill
From: merrick, ny
E-mail: rhill125@optonline.net

answer to post by steve batthany of april 24th, 2009
question #1: manager lefferts theatre (Barney) usherette (Millie) question#2: Eldees (Atlantic Ave 117 & 118 St.)
queston#3: re: 111th St. bowling alley (just off Jamaica Ave.)
Added: April 25, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
DR JOHN RODGERS
From: TERRA VISTA, FL
E-mail: drjohnrodgers@yahoo.com

Steve:
Eldee Appliances was on the north side of Atlantic between 118 and Lefferts--a few doors away from Ludemann's. The son of the owner, Joey Lombardi, was in my class at SBJL circa 1950.
Idlewild opened with an air show and speeches by HST (and others) in the summer of 1948 (I believe). My cousin lived on Van Wyck Blvd (before the Expwy) below Rockaway Blvd. we walked down to what is now North Conduit where the hotels are, and sat on a hill watching the show. The plane I remember best was a B-36 which had its propellers facing the rear of the plane.
I believe Idlewild became JFK in 1964 after JFK was assassinated.
Added: April 25, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Ken Fahrbach
From: Punta Gorda Fl
E-mail:

Let's see I spent my early years in RH... attended PS66 and one year at PS90. My sister graduated from RHHS. Lived at 90-14 102 street just around the corner from Bond bread...
Remember walking to Pecks with my Dad to get a bucket of beer that they would drink on the front stoop. Dad sold the place to my Sister and her husband and they were there for about 5 to 8 years. I have old 8mm film of a paraded that I think was part of the Lutheran church (since gone I think).
Memories are of sled riding down 102 street from forest park to see if we could make it to Jamacia ave... walking to and from PS66 and PS90. Getting up on the train tracks to flatten pennies. Going to the back door of bond bread to get hot loafs of bead on Saturdays or was it Sundays. The workers would pass them out the door to us kids and we would run home with them.
Maypole at PS66… crossing guard duties and holding the shades down for movies (it was a guy thing). Stick ball, Heels, and all the street games we played at that young an age. The carousel and playing in Forest park exploring the woods and oh yea the "soup bowl", my sister still carries the scars from an errant tree that jumped in her path as she rode her sled down that awesome hill... lol
Moved to LI after the year in PS90. But have cruised the old area a few times in the past years, as my son has a business in Glendale. Great sight to remember the great times... we were young but we could walk to school and take responsibility at that young age... so much for the younger generations.
Added: April 24, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Steve Batthany
From: Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, N.C.
E-mail:

Trivia: Does anyone remember
#1 The Names of the mgr (with a Limp) of the Lefferts Theatre and his short female assistant with a flashlight??
#2 Does any one know where Eldee Lombardi's was before it was on Liberty and 116th??
#3 Where the 111 bowling alley was??
#4 What year Idlewild changed to Kennedy, had the air show, and opened for business??
Added: April 24, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Steve Batthany
From: Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, N.C.
E-mail:

Talk about the liberty lumber yard. I bought my first car there. A 1947 Studerbaker Commander for $100.
A week later I paid Freddie Dorgler's (Atlantic and 116th) $12, yes $12 US to fix the throw out bering on the clutch, the next week the brakes failed at 114th and Jerome and my brother Jerry and I wound up in the Itches front lobby. Do I rember Liberty Lumber?
Added: April 24, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Annette Maggio
From: San Ramon, CA
E-mail: AnnettePropertyManager@comcast.net

I grew up on 117th between 107ave & 109ave... went to OLPH... and lucky to have grown up in Richmond Hill. I went to OLPH between 1956-1962.
I hear there is going to me an OLPH Reunion Sept. 5, 2009. Is there anyone from my class going??? I sure would love to see any and all of you there... can you imagine... we were at one point 103 kids all in one class room... and one Dominican Nun... and we never... Never... got the upper hand!! ( we got the back of the hand plenty!!)
Added: April 23, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Omar Brunson
From: Richmond Hill Queens
E-mail:

I grew up in Richmond Hill.
I remember the Lumber Yard on Liberty Ave and Uncle Jack's Toy Store on Liberty and 124th, Buster Brown Shoe store, The Lefferts Movie Theatre, Rosenblum's Pharmacy...
This is just the type of site I was looking for to facilitate dating the house that has been in my family for the last 50 years.
Added: April 23, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Art Bornschein Sr.
From: Williamsburg, Va
E-mail: artieb1@cox.net

To Jimmy Burke:
We may have met but I'm sure you know my older brother Eddie (or maybe Richie in those days). Your adopted cousing Tom and I were best buddies back in the fifties and sixties. He even lived with my family while he was on leave from the Navy.
I still keep in touch with him and his wife and stopped at his home in Wichita, Ks. twice while travelling cross country. He now lives in Fla.
Added: April 23, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Jim Burke (my sisters still call me Jimmy)
From: Long Beach, CA
E-mail: jimburke46@hotmail.com

Ozone Park readers: Does anyone know the three Bird sisters from south of Liberty near Tutie's?
Added: April 22, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Bernard Boyle
From: Allendale NJ
E-mail: bmbspirit@cs.com

I have been a fan of this site for a few years now, and although most of my youth was in South Ozone Park, I also lived on 115th St & 101 Ave as well.
I was reading a comment by Mary Johnson that said her maiden name was Micka, and I think she was in my class at St Teresa's. I graduated from there in 1964. We lived on 109th Ave between 132nd & 133 St. My siblings were Patricia, David and Noel.
I saw the name Rubenacker here, and wonder if that was the same family that lived on 133 St because they had a backyard that went all the way through to the next street and it actually had a pear tree in it. It was a great yard to cut through when you were playing ringalevio.
I still get nostalgic when I read the entries here, especially about the places everyone frequented, from Rockaway Blvd to Jamaica Ave & The Van Wyck to Woodhaven Blvd.
I remember walking home in the summer at 9 o'clock at night with my brother Noel, going past houses where the TV has been set up on the sidewalk in front of the stoop and the whole family is sitting on the steps watching. keep the memories coming.
Added: April 21, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
joann cutichio rodecker
From: long island
E-mail: joannrodecker@yahoo.com

grew up in R.H from 1950 to 1965. there was no place like it.
went to P.S.100 for 1-6 then to 121 7 to 8. Then went to Jamaica Vocational H.S. on hillside avenue and 165 St. My brother Anthony graduated from John Adams 1965. I lived on 122 st. between 109 ave and 111 ave.
I remember Saturday afternoons at the Lefferts theater. Does anyone remember Eleanor Jethro or Kathy Perry or Jimmy Barbera from Linden Blvd. We hung out at the candy store at 125 st. and 111 ave. I did all my shopping on Liberty Ave or Jamaica Ave. Remember the Green Line bus terminal at Archer Ave? (i think).
Added: April 21, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
TOMMY BLANK
From: Long Island
E-mail: TOMGENIE@aol.com

Read entry from Jimmy Burke,
I played ball with Lefty and went to PS55 and St Teresa's Church with Richie McCabe. Lived on 133 and Liberty where 103 started by the Monument. Played ball in every school and playground around my cousins George and Eddie Blank and Arty Brooks, played for the Atomics and Bobby Brooks for the Royals.
My father was the bartender at Baumans and the rest of my family hung out at Ryans right across from where Lefty lived. Haven't seen or heard from Richie in 50 years. Tommy Blank
Added: April 21, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Marilyn Mayer-Gaffney
From: Richmond Hill, New York
E-mail:

To Jeff: Re: Jahn's And Salerno's
Jahn's as you know has been closed for over a year now and was gutted almost immeditately. The word is that someone spent a large amount of money for all of the furnishings, including the lamps, brass fixtures and everything.
The building still stands with a permit in the window sadly and is becoming an eyesore with nothing being done to it. The awnings are ripped and falling off, as well as the building basically looking abandoned. It is such a loss.
As for Salerno's, they are still in business having changed owners, now called Sorrento's, not being able to use the original name anymore. At first they kept it as was, all Italian food and then slowly added Indian food to the menu. Now with a new sign and the building taking on a more Indian look, we are all suspecting that it will soon be an all Indian/Punjab restaurant.
Added: April 21, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
JEFF COSTIGAN
From: Fresh Meadows, Queens
E-mail: LEFTY5895@msn.com

HI,
was wondering what became of Jahns and Salernos? New businesses there yet? If so, what are they?? Did new owners gut Jahn's out, remove all old woodwork, Lamps?? Hope Not!! Would love to have 1 or 2 of the Stained Glass Lamps, put them right up in my apt.
If any one can answer my questions, please get back to me, would really appreciate it!! Still can't believe Jahns is gone, what a shame. Oh well, let me split. Jeff C.
Added: April 20, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
STEVE BATTHANY md
From: Lake Worth FLA
E-mail: ebatthany@aol.com

Well here goes "A Jump Back into History" what's new that I know only that St Bennies school is closing after almost 100 years.
Added: April 19, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Nick and Carol Calcanes
From: Homosassa, Fl
E-mail: calcanes1@earthlink.net

This is a reply for Honey Chambers (no email address)
The picture taken at the Garden Sweet Shop is probably with Nick and his cousin George. Don't know who owned the convertable. Email the picture if you can. calcanes1@earthlink.net -- Thanks.
Added: April 18, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Jim Burke (my sisters still call me Jimmy)
From: Long Beach, CA
E-mail: jimburke46@hotmail.com

Lived at 104-75 129th St, family moved to 109-44 117th St, So OZ while I was in the Army 1956 but I found them. Family: Valerie, Jim, Noel, Elaine, David, Miriam, Mary & Lois + adopted cousins Tom, Mary & Rita Mitchell.
One St Benny's nun used to bounce my forehead off the blackboard telling me "I'm going to show you the inside of this blackboard, Burke". Years ago I ran into a guy at a San Francisco AA meeting who had been on SFPD. He was from 134th & Liberty area, knew all the same last names I did but different 1st names - finally dawned on me he hung out with the younger brothers of my gang. He knew Jeffry & Eugene, the brothers of Adrian Wayne (Lefty) Burke & the McCabes. Anyone know Eddy Reap, Turk Taffner, Dickie Farnsworth, walked from south of the library to see Mary Rademacher every night just north of J&J's 130th & Liberty, she married a guy she saw every lunchtime. Tony Ortiz lived near her. The Cook brothers lived on 129th. Ross is out here in Rialto. (I can't read entries that are too long.)
Added: April 18, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Kathleen Riley
From: Orlando, FL
E-mail: Kathy4Riley@aol.com

Looking to get back in touch
Added: April 17, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Jim Burke (my sisters still call me Jimmy)
From: Long Beach, CA
E-mail: jimburke46@hotmail.com

Lived in St Theresa of Avilla parish.
Aunt in St Joseph order pulled strings to get us into St Benny's. Jimmy Breslin was a few years ahead of me. I remember Billy Heffernan (father was a milkman who smuggled rationed sugar and butter to the nuns) Richie Gearns (my ex, Connie Conway is still in touch with his sister), Freddie Schroeder, Frank Gerber, Judy Ryan, Ann Maher (uncle was a Bishop)
Added: April 17, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Thomas O'Connor
From: Wall Twp. NJ
E-mail: oconnorthomas79@yahoo.com

Great site. Brings back the wonderful memories of growing up in Richmond Hill.
I wish the old neighborhood was back the way it used to be. Living in the suburbs can't compare to what we had growing up in Richmond Hill. I really miss it.
Added: April 15, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
richie lovaglio
From: florida
E-mail:

hey patti, how are you. hung out with ronnie and your sister barbara in 90 pk. hope you are doing well and say hi to ronnie.
Added: April 15, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Nancy Augustins
From: seaford, ny
E-mail: sandbunny@optonline.net

My husband worked for a company called Merma doorback in 1960. He is trying to locate it. Any help would be appreciated.
Added: April 14, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Patti Bamberger Becker
From: Monroe, NY
E-mail: arcstar70@hotmail.com

To Marilyn Meyer
I just read your story and the part about piano lessons at the convent sure did bring back some memories, unfortunately not such great ones either LOL...
Sister Grace Theresa was her name and oh my, was she ever out of her mind!!! My knuckles still hurt when I think about how she taught us to play. I remember asking her once why we had to keep our fingers at attention and WHACK, she gave me one right across the knuckles. Practice 4 days a week for those of us who didn't have a piano at home, and then the dreaded lesson 1 day a week.
I smuggled my grandmother in once so that she could hear me play, and I almost died when I saw the habbit go flying by the little window in the practice room as Sister went flying down the hall to the next practice room so that she could yell at the other student for sounding like an amatuer. I wonder what the heck she expected from us, geez, we were only kids!
Finally, the straw that broke the camels back was when I was with her for a lesson and another student was waiting for me to finish. I made a dreaded mistake. The next thing I know, Sister Grace Theresa has me by my pony tail, shaking my head back and forth, saying to the waiting student, "We have a real lemon here"... I went home crying, and after finally telling of the torture that went on in the convent, I went on to learn from Mrs. Tomforte. Now that woman was something else!
Thank you to Lisa Corridor for introducing me to her. If it hadn't been for her, I don't think I would have any fingers left LOL. See you on facebook and myspace. Have a great day all.
Added: April 13, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
richie lovaglio
From: florida
E-mail:

hey theresa, moved to fl to get away from winter.
love it down here, but miss my brothers. micheal lives in long island. my older brother lives in cape may, nj. my bother jimmy lives in the city. talk with dennis rudolph last month, it was great talking with him. coming up for the holiday. who else you have seen and what reunion. take care
Added: April 13, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Warren Lutzel
From: Attleboro, Ma
E-mail: xpress47@comcast.net

Grew up in Kew Gardens, but remember hanging out at Jahn's and Big John's hot dog joint and playing the bowling game.
Added: April 12, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Mary Hamel
From: Ma.
E-mail: ma5hm@aol.com

If anyone is going to the SBJL [St Benney's] Walk-Through the School on Sat April 25th and you are from the Ma., RI area, and you want to share a ride please e-mail me. I would like to leave on Fri and return on Sun. I will drive. Can take 3 adults.
Added: April 11, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Theresa Cervino - Jenkins
From: Richmond Hill, New York 11418
E-mail:

To Richard Lavaglio, It was so nice to hear back from you!
So what brought you to Florida? Married, children? I am, and have 2 grown Daughters. I always remember our days in Holy Child and you are one I'd never forget. Would I recongnize you today? Would you recognize me? LOL
You say your coming back for a Christmas visit. Do you still have any family here? I would love to see you. Please keep me posted on here as to your plans. Hope to hear from you soon and keep in mind the reunion next year. Sincerely, Theresa
Added: April 10, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Art Bornschein Sr.
From: Williamsburg, Va.
E-mail: artieb1@cox.net

To Mike Nilsson, Could you be related to Buck Nilsson?
My dad owned Reo Moving Co. and later on my uncle Artie and my friend Bill Grochowski bought Nilsson Moving Co. We were located at 125th St. & 101st Ave. (Jerome Ave.)
Added: April 9, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Marilyn Mayer - Gaffney
From: Richmond Hill, New York
E-mail: jfredmcred@aol.com

To All Holy Child Jesus Graduates:
I know this is early but Palm Sunday's Church Bulletin mentions next year, 2010 is the 100th Anniversary of the Parish. Among many events being planned for the Jubilee Year mentioned are "Homecoming Reunions." There was a form to be turned into the rectory asking for graduate's information.
For anyone who is not local, please send your name, address, phone #, Graduation Year, and e-mail to Holy Child Jesus Church, 111-11 86th Avenue, Richmond Hill, New York 11418 now!
They are looking for responses as soon as possible, so get yourselves on the list and let's look forward to a BIG reunion next year. I will keep everyone posted as well. Happy Easter everyone!
Added: April 9, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Mary Woods
From: Richmond Hill
E-mail: jfredmcred@aol.com

To Donna Sohl Greenbaum,
I remember your grandmother very well as I live across the street from her house. She was a lovely lady who always had a smile and a good word for every one who passed by. I remember your grandfather's store. He delivered orders in a wheelbarrow.
Added: April 8, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Dennis Doyle
From: Richmond Hill, NY
E-mail: richmond.hill.history@gmail.com

To Mike Nilsson:
Please visit our web pages regarding The History of Saint Benedict Joseph Labre Parish, researched by our local Historian Carl Ballenas.
Within these pages are related links to other parts of South Richmond Hill such as Morris Park, Clarenceville, and Dunton. These neighboring communities were eventually absorbed into Richmond Hill.
Added: April 8, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Mike Nilsson
From: Florida
E-mail: fdnyret@aol.com

I was born and raised in RH, went to RHHS 1955 to 1958 when I joined the Navy. I retired from FDNY and now live in Florida.
My Father was born there in 1903 and owned Ice, Coal and Moving business until his death in 1965. My Grandfather farmed, Lefferts Blvd. to Van Wyck, and went on owned his own ice delivery business where he lived on 127 Street and 103 Road. My Great Grandfather, Oberglock Family, owned and operated a diary and bottle business in Morris Park. Our family goes back to the mid 1800's in RH, Woodhaven and Morris Park. I often find myself wondering why the RH Historical Society never has any information and history about South RH?
Added: April 8, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Paul C. Lupica
From: Savannah, Ga.
E-mail: pclupica@bellsouth.net

Born and raised on Hillside Ave. & 124th St. Father, Tom; mother, Adele; brothers, Charles (Chuck), Ted and Lenny. Family lived in same house since 1920. Left in '69.
Hung-out on Jamaica Ave & 126th. Also Our Lady of the Cenacle schoolyard and area. Also Jamaica Ave. & 114th area. Would like to reconnect with anyone from those areas from the '60s. If you recognize the name please contact me.
Read comments about The Keith's, Danced on the stage in the '50s. Can anyone remember 'The Gertz Pie Club'? Saw the Three Stooges live on stage at a movie theater in Jamaica. Does anyone remember them being there?
Went to P.S. #54, Van Wyck J.H.S. #217 and RHHS. Family attended The Church of the Resurrection on 118th St and 85th Ave. Married Kathi Giambertone in '69. Then moved to Savannah, Ga. in '72 and, No, I don't know Paula Deen. Hope to hear from anyone from my youth. Thanks
Added: April 8, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Art Bornschein Sr.
From: Williamsburg, Virginia
E-mail: artieb1@cox.net

To Joseph Matragano:
Your brother Ralph and I were best buddies in P.S. 121. We lost track of each other after graduating in 1957. He's a great guy and I always thought that he would become a priest and then we met at a gathering in S.B.J.L., with his girlfriend a few years later. Please have him touch base with me I would love to hear from him.
You have had a great family and your Mom was a typical special Italian lady. "You have to eat". I remember our science teacher saying that she ate at your home once and couldn't believe the amount of food she was served. I learned later on, how that works when I married my Italian wife Rose Marie 43 years ago. She still cooks that way. Art B.
Added: April 7, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Dougie Flynn
From: LI New York
E-mail:

Hey Richie Lavaglio, I didn't really hang out anywhere in particular. I remember John because he sat behind me in homeroom.
I remember playing in a football game at Victory Field with some of the guys from 90 park, Kevin Coen, Phil Manino and a guy named "Fitzi". It was alot of fun. They were real cool to me. The girl who I liked was there too. She was there for the other team who hung out at 66 park. She gave me grief about it at school later on in the week.
Hard to believe that was over 30 years ago!! Take care
Added: April 7, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
liz mccarthy
From: pa
E-mail: bjbuckley7@verizon.net

I was wondering if there were any readers who graduated from Holy Child School in 1952?
We had a fun class and I would like to hear from anyone - Joan Lidell, Gerry Cook, Arnie Haffner, Robert Baker, Frank Burns, Nicki, Francis Messick, et al
Added: April 7, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Donna Sohl Greenbaum
From: San Diego
E-mail: dmgreenie@yahoo.com

In response to the question about the kids from 110 St., I was one who spent lots of time on that street since my grandmother, Anna Sohl, lived there until 1977.
I'm looking for any memories of my grandparents. They used to own the corner store at 110th and Atlantic during the 40's and 50's. I'm also looking to renew friendships with anyone who went to PS 51 and "graduated" from 5th grade in 1969.
Added: April 6, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
mary johnson
From: long branch nj
E-mail:

Hello Everyone!
I was just wondering if any of my old friends from years back are on this website. They were two sisters, Barbara and Carol Southwick, Mary Ann Donnaruma, Andrea Siglain, Dianna Schneider. We all grew up together and some of us attended the same schools.
Happy Easter everyone. Regards, Mary
Added: April 6, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Jan Simmons
From: Wall Township, NJ
E-mail: catladyjan@gmail.com

I am asking anyone on this site for information on the murder of Cheryl McCarthy way back in December 1969.
Did anyone recall if it was ever solved? I lived down the street from where it happened. Any information would be appreciated.
Added: April 4, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Rafael Rivas
From: Jacksonville, Florida
E-mail: rafar63@gmail.com

Diana Wantola.
Please, look for my email on this page. I want to say hello to You.
If somebody have the chance to contact Diana Wantola, please, let her know about this add. Thank you very much. Bye Rafael Rivas.
Added: April 3, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
diana munzer
From: california
E-mail: dianamunzer@gmail.com

I was born at Richmond Hill Sanatorium, 1939.
I am looking for Steve Stetzer who lived at 87-15 91 St. Woodhaven, New York. Any one have any information? Thanks, diana munzer. Also information regarding Marta Hink, thanks
Added: April 3, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Patricia Erhard Trainor
From: Glen Ridge, NJ
E-mail: Pattee217@aol.com

This looks like a great sight !
Added: April 3, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Erika Mack
From: Spring, Texas
E-mail: erika.p.17@hotmail.com

I recently started a family tree and have worked my way back to my grandfather and his parents.
Since my grandfather died when I was young & his parents died when he was young- none of their information got passed along to the rest of the family. I'm hoping someone might be able to help me find information on them.
My grandfather's name was: Arthur Walter Mack born on October 4, 1932 in Jamaicia Hospital in Richmond Hill. He graduated from John Adams High School in 1950. His father's name was: William Mack (born in Germany and his mother's name was Irene Hahn Mack (born in New York).
If anybody has ANY information on this family I would greatly apperciate the help!!
Added: April 2, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
paul galbraith
From: highland falls, ny
E-mail: pgalbraith1956@msn.com

Below is the obit for my dad... Dad was a great man!
John H. Galbraith, a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away on Tuesday, March 17th at 92. He lived a long, blessed life. Born in New York City, he moved to Richmond Hill, NY to raise his family and lived there from 1949-1974.
He attended Xavier High School in Manhattan and Fordham University where he received his MA in Education in 1940. From 1940-1942 he served in the Army Calvary during World War II.
A dedicated educator, John was a middle school teacher for 30-years with the New York City Board of Education. He began his career teaching Latin and the Classics. Upon his retirement in 1974, he and his wife moved to Leisure Knoll in Manchester, NJ, where he took great joy as a member of the Golf, Organ, and Bowling Clubs.
He loved baseball, especially the Mets, and pitched for 15-years for the Leisure Knoll Owls Softball Team, often bringing a grandchild to games for luck and to serve as the bat girl or boy.
An avid musician and lover of music, John always got the party started by playing the nearest piano. His favorites were Irish tunes and beloved songs from the 30's, 40's and 50's by greats the like of Frank Sinatra and Benny Goodman. He could also play any song you were able to sing to him. He loved sing-a-longs and dancing, particularly with his wife.
John is predeceased by a son, Kevin in 1998. Surviving are his loving wife of 65 years, Grace Veronica Barton Galbraith; devoted children: John F. of Manhattan, NY, Paul J. of Highland Falls, NY and Lynne Fitzpatrick of Toms River; six grandchildren: Laura, Sean, Kathryn, Alecon, Patrick, and Megan; and two great-grandchildren: Samuel and Ruby.
It is with both great joy and sorrow that we say goodbye. Interment at Brigadier General Wm C Doyle NJ Veterans Cemetery, Arneytown.
In lieu of flowers please make your donations to the Epilepsy Foundation, Catholic Medical Mission Board, Inc. and Marist Brothers.
Added: April 2, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Richie Lovaglio
From: Florida
E-mail:

Hey Dougie, John Girace is doing well. He lives in PA.
Dougie, with who and where did you hang out growing up.
Added: April 2, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Barbara Baas aka Bobbi Bass
From: Ozone Park NY
E-mail:

Whatever happened to all the "kids" (1950's & 60's) from 110th St. between Atlantic and Jamaica - Owen Boyle, Joey DiBlasi, Carl Langensdorf - Marie & Lois Kennedy, Delores Ciccone, Jerry Johnson?
What about the "Catholic School kids" who hung out in Poppies (aka Cordes) like Marie & Barbara Scherer, Mary Hauck, Mary Ellen Gordino, Kathy Reilly, Michelle Funk, Gordon Scharpf, Billy McAuley etc., etc., etc. Where are you?????
Added: April 2, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Richard Franek
From: Ridge, L.I., N.Y.
E-mail: usscv15@hotmail.com

I went to RH from 1955 to 1959 and would like to hear from anyone who went there during this time. Till then, Richard Franek
Added: April 1, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Dennis Doyle
From: Richmond Hill, NY
E-mail: richmond.hill.history@gmail.com

Please Note: If your comments had not been posted lately it was due to a script error which I hope has been resolved. My apologies to those who had not seen their comments posted in our Guestbook. Please try again. We do appreciate your entries!
Added: April 1, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
thomas p corso
From: damascus pa
E-mail: corsotom@ptd.net

living in northeast PA, raised four wonderful children, still married to my wife the former susan carney, God bless her.
Just had our 3rd granchild 12-20-08 and an additional set of twins on 3-16-09, makes five all total.
Just found this site and brings back good memories of the neighborhood I grew up in. See a lot of old friends on the list would love to hear from some. Am looking forward to the richmond hill north reunion.
Added: March 20, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Barb Wojtko
From: Colorado
E-mail: bwojtko@msn.com

Saw an entry from Frank Guardino... did you graduate from SBJL in 1963?
Added: March 15, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Mike D. Wilson
From: Barrie Ontario
E-mail: wilson5002@rogers.com

First time on site, great idea, will be back.
Added: March 14, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Judy Shapiro Leone
From: Belchertown, MA
E-mail: jude01007@yahoo.com

Hi Everyone,
Wondering if anyone would remember me, I was Judy Shapiro, went to P.S.90, P.S.58 and should have graduated with the class of 1954 from R.H.H.S. I lived on 109th ST across from P.S.90 for awhile, but was born and returned to Ozone Park, awhile on 104th St near 101st Avenue, then moved around the corner to 103rd St near 101st Avenue.
I would love to hear from anyone that might remember me.
Added: March 14, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Carol A Marano
From: New York
E-mail: carolmarano@aol.com

Memories of my childhood with my dearly beloved mother, shall live on in my heart forever.... May God Preserve these Precious Memories and Give Them Back To Me, To Share With "MOMMY," Once Again!
Added: March 13, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Virginia Oldfield Kopp
From: PA
E-mail: kopp_gina@yahoo.com

Joseph Matragano, This post is in answer to yours.
Of course you do not remember me, but I was in your home on many occasions and your brother Pat and I were and I hope are, good friends. Your Mom & I loved each other and she use to try to fatten me up as I was skinny.
I sat with your brother, along with my husband at our 25th. Adams H.S. reunion in 1979. I think his wife passed away and I was sorry to hear that. How is he and please give him my love. I hate to ask about any of our Mothers since they, if alive, are so old and fear they have already passed away. Mine is now 96 yrs. old.
Pat and I use to hang around together in 121 and even years later in Adams. I would love to see him again and relive those years. Too bad we have to get old, but it is better than the alternative I guess. Margaret Rubenacker does have a sister Barbara. She was a good friend of June Rau,s sister, also named Barbara as they were in the same classes and same age.
I am in shock to hear from Pat's brother since we exchanged Christmas cards up until about 5 or 6 yrs. ago and then he just stopped and I no longer had a current address on him. If he uses the computer at all, unlike my late husband, please tell him to email me. He was a great friend and just a wonderful person. Your whole family made a person feel so at home when they stopped in back in the "olden days". Tell Pat that I remember the many nights we would all go to O'Sole Mio's for pizza just to give Neri's a little break.
We lived in a great neighborhood, had wonderful friends, and the kids today just have no idea how uncomplicated and carefree it was in comparison to today's lifestyle. God bless you and your whole family. Ginger
Added: March 12, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Carol Friese Farrell
From: Winslow Twp. N.J.
E-mail: farrca1@aol.com

Corrected e-mail address
Added: March 12, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Bill Heaney
From: lincroft new jersey
E-mail: btjk35@aol.com

Richie Newell, your name sounds familar, I played alot of softball at both the richmond hill annex and the main school.
I was very good friends with both marty and tommy kreppein, and remember richie who was older than me. Were you a swimmer, I know richie was very good and remember julia the sister, they were a great family, but they swam for sacred heart if I remember correctly, they swam against holy child, oh well thought the name rang a bell.
Our crowd was the richmond hill royals, and dennis oconnor and tommy from 110 st... just asking if you remember any of those names...
Added: March 11, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Marilyn Mayer-Gaffney
From: Richmond Hill, Queens, New York
E-mail:

Reply To Anthony Palmisano:
Sorry I'm late getting back to you as well but we've been having some computer problems here. It's always great hearing from you and your wonderful stories. I love reminiscing with someone who remembers! Of course I remember the old windows in the old building since I didn't have the pleasure of having a class in the new one with air-conditioning and carpeting. We were always freezing in the winter and sweltering on the warm/hot days. It was bad enough on a cold day, but a few of the Nuns on some days would say that the class was lethargic and order one of you window boys to open them wide to wake us up!
Yeah, that was really invigorating, shivering as we did our work! LOL Then, the girls didn't have the pleasure of wearing uniform pants as they do now. We had those wool jumpers with short sleeved puffy sleeves, which were cold in the winter and hot in the summer. All we were allowed to wear over them was preferably a school sweater, or it had to be navy or white, as were our socks. I remember some of the boys, if they forgot a tie their Parents were called immediately to bring them one. The same applied if they got ink on their shirt during the day and sometimes it was no one's fault if they had a cartridge pen which exploded! LOL During the first week of school, we were allowed to wear our own clothes and sometimes maybe a day or so towards the end of the school year.
I remember being embarassed by Sister Mary Sarto in front of the class, telling me at lunch time not to come back wearing the same skirt since my knee caps were showing. I was very modest and wasn't showy, but I did notice as time went on that there was favoritism at times with some who were and got away with it! In 8th Grade I had trouble with Sister Ann Michelle or "SAM" as most called her. I was a good student, mostly keeping to myself and the problem she had with me was my bangs were too long for her. When I look at pictures now, they weren't bad at all with the front looked like a Beatle haircut! She haunted me to cut it all of the time and even when I did, it wasn't enough. Every day, she'd call me to the front of the class to put paper clips in it to hold it back. I went through this torture until I graduated and then again, she tried to stop me from that.
On Graduation day when we all had to go to our classrooms before the ceremony, my bangs were down with my cap on. She didn't like it and there was another boy {?} in the class also who she was giving trouble to. She let everyone walk over to the Church except us. She kept telling us that all of our families were probably looking for us, which they were. When I heard the organ, knowing that they were about to start, I put my hair under my Graduation cap to appease her. She ran us over quickly to put us in line in the Church.
As we started walking up the aisle, I lifted my cap to let my hair down, thinking let her stop me now. The rest went smoothly, but I'll never forget how she semi ruined my day. Being a shy honor student with no back-bone, I allowed this to happen. I know she got in trouble with another girl's Mother after putting gum in her hair, having to have it cut out. Now a days, it wouldn't happen.
So you were in charge of erasing the blackboards. Did you also get to go outside to clap them out? They always picked the boys for that and it actually looked like fun back then, as well as to get outside for a bit. In 8th grade my job was to clean the chalk holder around the boards. I felt kinda humiliated with a wash rag, walking around the room scrubbing it down, feeling like a cleaning lady.
Your story about going to Gebhart's and nearly getting hit by the bus was hysterical! I'm sorry and I'm glad you're here to tell it, as I'm sure you are too! LOL That must've been quite a sight and Sister Regina Margaret should've given you a Purple Heart for almost losing your life on your expedition for her cakes. I had her in 7th Grade. Funny thing happened to me in her class since I was so quiet. I think it was probably November and I had been given the last seat all the way in the back. You have to realize too that classes were very crowded when I was there. We had over 80 children in each first grade class, having to share those old flip down seats and even when graduating had over 60 in each class. Anyway, here I am being in her class since September, always doing all of my class work, homework, passing all of my tests, etc., coming in and out of the room everyday, seeing her. Two months later she stretches her neck out, looking down my aisle and announces to the class that we have a new student. I'm looking around as well. She was referring to me! LOL I think everyone started to laugh and as usual I got embarassed, as everyone including myself corrected her. Gee, I was there since Kindergarten and now I'm a new-comer?! So what did she do but reprimand me for not participating in class, meaning raising my hand with answers etc.. What does she do now, but change my seat immediately to the first seat right in front of her desk! Ugh! I thought they only did that with trouble makers, which I wasn't. There I sat for the rest of the year. That's what I got for being quiet and shy, while changing my seat wasn't going to make a difference!
I was in the convent a few times and was in awe, when I saw the giant kitchen, with giant pots cooking on the stove and the Nuns, some of whom weren't in full habit. I took piano lessons there for a short period, from 12:30 - 1 P.M., so I'd have to go home, swallow my food whole and run back to the convent to play. It was beginning to interfere with some of my school work, especially on test days, where I'd be rushing though them when everyone else was 15 mins. up on me. Though I did enjoy piano, I did have some knowledge from my family and having played before. I'm not sure who the Nuns were who taught, but all she wanted me to practice was scales. I found that boring, so one day when she came in, I said, "Watch this", and went off playing a song. She was furious, not happy with me at all as I was afraid of getting the old metal ruler across the knuckles, which they were still doing and allowed to.
So, it was around that time that I told my Mother that if she wanted me to play music, that it was time for me to quit while I still had my hands in working order. LOL Soon after that, I bought myself a guitar with my Confirmation $ in 5th Grade and learned.
The rest is history, though I can still play some piano. I've played clubs on and off for years, still having a Classic Rock band now. In fact we were supposed to play Forest Park last summer but got rained out! We're already signed to play this year, as well as some club offers that we're looking at. So much for music lessons back then. LOL
As always Anthony, it's a pleasure hearing from you and I do hope you will write back soon! You're so much fun! Sincerely, Marilyn P.S. ~ Are you on classmates.com?
Added: March 9, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Bill Heaney
From: lincroft new jersey
E-mail: btjk35@aol.com

hello dennis, yes the kreppeins, were a great family, and marty was one hellva miler for bishop loughlin... I ran with marty for 3 years at loughlin, and tommy his brother also went to loughlin.
Added: March 9, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Richard Newell
From: Galloway, New Jersey
E-mail: coachrich00@yahoo.com

Hi Dennis, Marty is Richie's & Julie's brother.
I will try and get his e-mail address for you and send it. Marty was in my wedding party back in 1970. Rich Newell
Added: March 9, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Frank Biscay
From: Iselin, NJ
E-mail:
bisc928@aol.com

Went back to Rich Hill/Ozone Park today for a wake and was I ever woken up!
Lived on 109th street between 107 & 109 Avenues from 1947-1968. Went down Lefferts from Belt Pkwy, turned on 107th Ave until I made a right on 109th Street; thought I was viewing a neighborhood contest to see which house could make the gaudiest wall/fence in the front of their property topped with elephants!!!. They were replacing the siding on my house and the place, grey in color looked like a dump! Had intended to stop in and ask if I could see the place but that was a turn off. What happened to all the trees on 109th street? 90% of them were gone!! And what happened to the school yards at PS 121 and PS 108? They were less then half the size we grew up enjoying! And Aqueduct parking lot off Rockaway Blvd. was empty!! I remember when it was filled to overflowing in the mid 60's!!
Sometime progress and change sucks!! Oh well, "you can't go home again"... thank God for memories...
Added: March 9, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
John Saladino
From: Wantagh, NY
E-mail: jssdino@optonline.net

Joanne Czaikowski Archer are you related to Michael Czaikowski from the Holy Child Class of 1970?
I am organizing a class reunion and have been trying to find him. Please send reply to my email if you are related. Thanks, John Saladino
Added: March 8, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Dennis Doyle
From: Richmond Hill, NY
E-mail: richmond.hill.history@gmail.com

I was friends with a Marty Kreppein. Any relations?
We hung out at the "Log" in Forest Park.
Added: March 8, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Richard Newell
From: Galloway, New Jersey
E-mail: coachrich00@yahoo.com

Final Notice
We are getting ready to put together the friends reunion to be held on June 13th, 2009. Please start sending me your e-mail address so I can send out more information to everyone. We hope to have a good turn out of old friends from the Hill. Please also respond if you are unable to attend.
Attention Richmond Hill Friends Reunion (1960-1965). If you went to Holy Child or hung out at the Richmond Hill Annex and High School School Yards or were part of the Nations we would like to hear from you.
Do you remember the days of School Dances, House Parties, and Stick Ball Games, Hanging out in the School Yards or Forrest Park? Maybe you remember Cordes Ice Cream Parlor, Steve's Pizzeria, RKO Keiths Movie Theater, or Club 111 Bowling Alley. Have you ever wondered of what happened to old friends from the neighborhood? Well now is your chance, Julie Kreppein-Wissell, Rich Newell, and Richie Kreppein are putting together a friends reunion for Saturday June 13, 2009 to be held at the American Legion Post #948 located in Bellmore, Long Island.
The cost will be $70.00 per couple or $40.00 per individual. (Non-Refundable). The price includes Food, Beer, Wine, and Soda.
It has been over 40 years since our childhood days, so what do you say lets get together and catch up on lost years. We are looking for names, address, phone numbers, and e-mail address of old friends. Please RSVP to any of the below address if you have any information and would be interested in attending by May 13 2009. We are also looking into blocking off hotel rooms for those who will need a place to stay. Julia Kreppein-Wissell - julia1950@msn.com; Rich Newell - coachrich00@yahoo.com; Richie Kreppein - hacksquad@aol.com
Added: March 8, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Joseph Matragrano
From: Saint James, New York
E-mail: jmatr@optonline.net

I lived at 104-48 124th St. between Liberty and 107th avenues with my brothers Pat, Ralph, Anthony and sister Teresa.
I graduated PS 121 in 1953 and John Adams HS in 1957. Not too many entries on this fantastic site from my old section of Richmond Hill, so, I was happy to see a few submitted this week.
To Virginia Oldfield Kopp... you mentioned a Margaret Rubenacker. Does she have a younger sister named Barbara? I seem to remember that name from PS 121. Also, your entry of June 2008 brought back fond memories of that school as well as the old neighborhood in general. I remember Miss Behnke, Miss Littwin, Miss Grable and a lot of the great teachers we had then. Although I had Mr. Grabow for shop class instead of Miss Strang for cooking, for some reason I was assigned to do the grocery shopping for Miss Strang. She would give me a list with some money which I took to a grocery store on 111th Ave. On Liberty Ave. Levinsons had the best french fries but the fish market also under the El just past Lefferts Blvd. had great fries not to mention unbeatable fish cakes on a friday night.
Spent a lot of time in Neri's restaurant with friends John and Anthony Neri. Almost every weekend at the Lefferts movie where Barney the manager arranged for live shows on some Saturday afternoons with appearances by Hopalong Cassidy, Zero the Clown and many others. They also had Costume Day where the kids would all compete. Millie the matron was in charge of crowd control. We would bring a pint of ice cream from Nick's into the movie.
To John Parenti... I also stood in front of the A&P with my wagon to deliver shopper's groceries. Probably stood right next to you.
Richmond Hill, in those days, had to have been the very best place in which to grow up.
Added: March 8, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Kathy Giambertone Rapach
From: Savannah, Georgia
E-mail: krapach@comcast.net

Hi everyone from SBJL!
Louise (Garretto) it was so great to read your comments. Please say hello to your family for me. I always had such a wonderful time with all of you.
I called SBJL and found out that they are having a reunion on April 25 for everyone who ever graduated from there (doesn't matter what year).
I don't know if I'll be able to come up for it because I'm coming up next week. My son moved to NY and was a Restaurant Manager until he was laid off last week. He may be moving back to Savannah if he can't get another job soon.
I'd love to see everyone that graduated in 1964. Boy have those years gone by (I guess we are now our parents!). I had wonderful times with Nancy Rudolph, Ann Marie O'Neill, Edith Von Werne, Denise Butler, Sarina Saporito, Joanne Gagliano. Richmond Hill was a wonderful place to grow up. Fr. Smith was the one that brought CYO to school and my hair used to freeze on the way home from swim practice at RHHS (no blowdryers back then!). I hope everyone is doing well. Keep the comments coming!
Added: March 7, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Joanne Czaikowski Archer
From: Levittown, NY
E-mail:

Thank you for the updates on the teachers from HCJ.
Mrs O'Rourke was the sweetest lady! I remember how the kids would joke about Miss Place. Mrs. Petrilla scared me from drawing to this day! lol! I do remember when the new building opened and thinking the tunnel connecting the 2 buildings were cool.
How about St Patricia making sure the girls didn't have their skirts too short as they entered the school in the morning? And Sister Loretta turning as red as a tomato when she got mad was always funny! "Reggie", Mr. Cinicola, Mrs. Mahoney, Mrs. Spiro, they were all characters!
Added: March 7, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Dougie Flynn
From: Merrick NY
E-mail:

Richie Lavaglio, I read you had a Reunion at 90. I went to school with John Gerace. Do you know what ever became of him? Dougie
Added: March 7, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
richie lovaglio
From: rockledge, fl
E-mail:

hi theresa, sure i remember you and your brothers.
i lived two blocks from you. had a reunion with my friends from 90pk. my brother michael came with me.
i am living in florida, good job and a beautiful house. no more drinking, just golf and softball. miss alot of people and will be up for christmas. talk to you soon
Added: March 6, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Dr John Rodgers
From: Terra Vista, FL
E-mail: drjohnrodgers@yahoo.com

To those of you with PS 121 memories.
In the summers of 1947-1949, my mother worked at the vacation playground at 121 for the entire summer. She would bring me along and I would join in some of the activities (Dance Festival, etc) but I was only 5 yrs old in 1947, and 7 by 1949.
I do remember a Doris Schaffer who was one of the older girls in the program. We lived on 120 St. between Jerome and 97th Avenues.
My uncle, Dr.McInerney, became the principal of PS 100 in the early 1950's and remained the principal for over 20 years.
Added: March 5, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
mary johnson
From: long branch nj
E-mail: mjohnson@pershing.com

Hi Folks! I love this site also.
It is so nice to read about some of the old times and places. I too remember Neri's and Karp's and Kresge's. I grew up on 124th between 107th and 109th aves. My family name was Micka. I had many a root beer at Kresge's counter.
When I was a little girl around 8 or 9 I would buy all my Christmas presents in Kresge's for my Dad, my Mom my sis and my Grandma. It was fun. I would get usually a scarf for my Grandma because she loved scarves; and some perfume for my Mom, usually Evening in Paris. I'd get a pair of gloves or some handkerchiefs for my Dad. And usually a little doll or some Colorforms for my sister. Does anyone remember Colorforms? I haven't thought of them in years!
I hope everyone has a nice day. Regards Mary
Added: March 5, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Ginny Oldfield Kopp
From: Pa.
E-mail: kopp_gina@yahoo.com

George Patton, I rarely see anyone post from P.S. 121 and it sure brings back memories.
Mrs. Dean (if she was married) was a real pip. Miss Strang from cooking class, which you guys were lucky enough to avoid. Miss Behnken, then Miss Littwin as principle, etc. etc. I attended from 41-49, and had a blast.
I lived at 104-20 126 St. I played the violin in the orchestra, there and at Adams. Also married my H.S. boyfriend, Andy Kopp who passed away in 2007. Getting older is difficult, seeing my husband, friends, and so many others leave after all the years they were around.
I still keep in touch with some of my 121 friends. One is Margaret Rubenacker, the other June Rau. We all played violin and were considered goody-two-shoes. Violins must turn regular folks off. I played terribly so that was a misnomer, for sure.
I miss the old neighborhood, my old friends and the joys of walking along Liberty Ave. each day working or not, with or without my kids. It just was the thing to do. Stopping at Kresge's for a cup of coffee also was a must, as was a pizza at Neri's or a soda at Karps.
I was saddened to hear Billy Karp passed away as he also was in my class in grade school along with his wife Joan Ann Peterson. They were a lovely couple.
I only left that area in 1982 and moved to Pa. It was nice here as a married person, but as a widow, not very feasible. Not in the woods anyway. Glad to see a fellow P.S. 121, posting. Keep "em coming.
The memories are great. God bless, Ginny
Added: March 4, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
George Patton Jr
From: Rhode Island
E-mail: aristarcus2@aol.com

Correction: Agnus Dean was in room 514, not 814. I mistakenly added 3 floors to P.S.121.
In perusing the many entries I ran across the name of Nucci. Not a common name, but I had a classmate in grammar school named Gabriel Nucci... Just wondering if there is a connection.
For any other old timers like myself, I stayed in touch with Irene E. Lavin and Marie C. Voehl from the teaching staff for some time, (until their demise).
Dan's supermarket on 111th ave was a souce of income for me when I was about 10 or 11 years old. Each saturday morning I would pull my 'Radio Controlled' wagon up to Dan's storefront, and together with another small group of kids offer our services as "delivery boy Mam?" Much more about neighborhood memories and names in the future. G.P.
Added: March 4, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Frank Guardino
From: Middletown N.Y.
E-mail: mecfd53@gmail.com

I use to live at 119-07 Jamaica ave. it use to be 2 apts. on top of the store. my apt. burned in the 70's.
i look though your site and it brought back some memories. use to think of my parents taking me to Jahns Ice Cream for birthday and the RKO keiths for a movie.
yes memories keep up the good work. great site.
Added: March 3, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
George Patton Jr
From: Rhode Island
E-mail: aristarcus2@aol.com

Memories galore!... Will begin post them willy-nilly as time passes. Lived at 111-23 125th Street from 1936 to 1945, thence to Lincoln Street in S. Ozone Park. A very happy student at P.S. 121 during this period, (Graduated in January 1945 - then on to Brooklyn Tech) with fond memories of Erna L. Behnken and her crew. (I can still name most all of my teachers - including "Old Lady Dean with the wig on her bean. Lived upstairs in 814". More later.
P.S. A curious Google inquiry about Krug's and Dugan's delivery trucks brought me to this sight.
Added: March 3, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
HONEY CHAMBERS
From: NORFOLK, VA.
E-mail:

Nick amd Carol, I lived on Jamaica Ave. across from the Garden Sweet Shop from 1943 to 1953!!
I hung out in the Sweet Shop and my mother worked as Ticket Taker in the Garden Theater next door for a while. All the Baseball and Basketball Players (Sweeties) hung out there.
I was just looking at a small Halloween picture taken inside there and the two brothers are in the pictures along with all the teens dressed up in costumes. Was the other brother named George??
Did one of them have a convertible car. I remember having a ride in it!! Small World!
Added: February 27, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Ginny Biscay
From: then 107-37 109 St. now, Amityville, NY
E-mail: gray2steel@aol.com

Billy "Bingo" Denis:
I remember you, and your brothers and sister, your Mom and Dad. Your Folks and mine would have sing-alongs. While my Dad, Clint, played the guitar, your Dad, Bill and Mike Meany and Bob Wren would harmonize.
You must remember my younger brother, Tom and my sister Mary Ellen. Hope this brings back some fond memories for you. Ginny
Added: February 26, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Nick & Carol Calcanes
From: Homosassa, Fl
E-mail: calcanes1@earthlink.net

After reading all of the comments, I realize that you are all much younger than my husband and I.
Maybe your parents remember the Garden Sweet Shop next to the old Garden Theater on Jamaica Ave. and 114 St. My husbands family owned the Garden Sweet Shop. Nick, my husband, took over the shop when he came home from the service. He graduated from Richmond Hill High School. His sister, Nora worked for Richmond Hill Savings Bank. I worked for the telephone company on Myrtle Ave off of Hillside Ave.
I came from S. Richmond Hill and graduated from John Adams H.S. in 1955. I lived on 121 St. and 107 Ave. It's so nice to read about the old neighborhoods.
Added: February 26, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Dougie Flynn
From: Merrick NY
E-mail:

Funzi, I remember playing softball with you and Anthony, your brother and you would do your own "Play-by-play".
You'd be playing third and you would say "Ground ball... third base line... throw to first!" and when Anthony would drop the ball you would stare at him and say "Youuu suckkk " in the play-by-play!
That memory has lasted almost 40 years and is still funny today. Hope all is well, Dougie
Added: February 26, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Mark Rollins
From: Griswold CT
E-mail: rollinsct@gmail.com

Hello all... 67 from holy child, and 71 from bishop loughlin... great site... miss the old neighborhood... changed a little I hear... live 108st few houses south of Jamaica... keep up the good work on the site... Mark
Added: February 26, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Mike Dunn
From: Massapequa Park, NY
E-mail: Didit27@msn.com

Great site, many memories.
Added: February 25, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Bill Heaney
From: lincroft new jersey
E-mail: btjk35@aol.com

Great hearing from you Bob Raines, and Dennis Doyle
Was up in the old neighborhood last week... Stop by jackson pond, damn that brings back memories, Jimmy Loughlin, Ox Polker, Fat Jack Maple, and the drinking at the upper log and the lower log.
Great times to be had... especially on Patty day... seems the whole neighborhood was up there drinking before we go into the city and raise hell... lol... and yes the name the richmond hill wild men... ala lugar doing his john wayne act... man was that fun or what... great to here from all of you.
Added: February 25, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Nancy Favilla
From: Sterling, Pa.
E-mail: deed5@echoes.net

Good Day All. Hey Dennis Rudolph, nice to see a family name on the site, and you're right, everyone remembers your dad.
This June I am bring my 12 yo daughter home to Richmond Hill for a few days. She wants to see where I grew up. I can't wait. It has been years since I've been home. She'll get to see where we all learned to play handball in 90's school yard (and punch ball and stick ball, ect.) She will walk the route I took to school everyday. The park, the ave., and with a little luck, perhaps I can get a tour of HJC and show her what the place was like.
She has no concept of what it is like growing up in a neighborhood, and I think we were all blessed to have that. I will be taking tons of pictures and hope to post them to the site. If anyone has any requests, let me know. That's all for now. Nancy
Added: February 25, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Theresa Cervino - Jenkins
From: Richmond Hill, New York
E-mail:

Hey Richard Lavaglio, I couldn't help but see your name on here.
We went to Holy Child together and graduated in '72. I lived on 86th Ave. between 114th St. and 115th St., where I still reside. I remember who you are very well. Do you remember me? It will be 37 years this June. It would be nice to hear from you after all of these years.
Anyone else out there from the class of '72 and/or the neighborhood, I'd love to hear from you. Sincerely, Theresa Cervino - Jenkins
Added: February 25, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
John Treubig
From: Hazlet, NJ
E-mail: jtreubig@comcast.net

Hey FUNZI,
Grew up around the corner on 110th but practically lived at 62's schoolyard across the street from your house. If I remember correctly you were the younger bro of Vinny, Louie and Tommy? Anyway, great times for sure.
Added: February 24, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Anthony Palmisano
From: Lynbrook, NY
E-mail:

To Marilyn Mayer-Gaffney
Hi Marilyn, I apologize for taking so long to write back to you. Hope all is well. I remember the first time I chnaged classrooms was in 6th. grade. That had to be 1971 seeing I graduated in 1973. Before them the teachers came to us.
Glad to have jogged your memory about the new building. (LOL) I do remember the teen dances although I never attended one and I remember the plays also, but again I don't think I ever attended one. I guess I was a real bore. (LOL) I remember the teachers letting us out in the school yard on nice days or very hot days. It always seemed to be hotter inside than outside, well then there was no air conditioning. My job was to open the windows every morning before class with a long pole. Do you remember the old windows at HCJ, they opened out. Also, I erased the blackboard every day. As you can see I had all the fun jobs. Oh, this is a good story. every Friday at lunchtime (I used to come home for lunch) Sister Regina Margaret would give me a list of items for me to pick up at Gebhardt's Bakery on 111th. St. This one day I am loaded with cake and buns and God knows what else and as I was stepping off the curb trying to cross Jamaica Ave, as I did I almost got hit by a bus because I could hardly see above the bags and boxes I was carrying. In a panic I dropped the boxes and the bus ran over them. Now I had to go to the convent with the crushed boxes and cake oozing out of them. I was petrified. Of course Sister Regina was not happy and let me know it. (LOL) She didn't care about me almost getting hit by the bus, only about the cake and how much it cost. (LOL)
Take care and be well. Anthony
Added: February 24, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Paul Galligan
From: Long Island
E-mail: pjgalligan@hotmail.com

It's hard to describe to my children of the suburbs what life was like growing up in a place like Richmond Hill. The idea of walking to a store or a park is almost unimaginable to someone who has grown up in Suffolk County but is a fond memory to a boy from Queens.
I was born at Jamaica Hospital. My older brothers went to St. Benny's but when it came my time to go to school we were out of the parish by one block! I wound up going to P.S. 55 and became the public school "black sheep" of the family.
Graduated Hillcrest HS 1975 (again one block east of being allowed to go to Richmond Hill HS). I loved growing up there. From childhood to teen years there was always someone around and always something to do. Touch football on 131st St, stickball on 95th Ave. movies at the Lefferts Theater, it was a great place for a kid. I remember Liberty Avenue, the Memorial Day parade in the spring then looking forward to the Christmas lights after Thanksgiving.
Growing older I got to enjoy working at local businesses like a gas station on 101st Ave. or MX Automotive on Atlantic Ave. And I fondly remember many evenings spent at Lennihan's (some may have been before I was 18?) playing pool, watching a ball game and singing "My Way" when it came on the juke box. It was a good time!
Added: February 24, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Billy "Bingo" Denis
From: 107-27 109st... now suffolk county
E-mail: nycbillybingo@aol.com

Where to begin... I went to PS 108 for kindergarden then OLPH for grammer school and TA Edison for HS.
I was with the FDNY for 20 years and 1 day working in South Jamiaca off Liberty Ave and retired just before 9/11. I started performing Stand Up Comedy in 1999 and stuck with it.
I was doing a show last night at a place called Fin's Pub in Oakdale and started talking to one of the guys in the audience only to find out he grew up in the old neighborhood. After my set we sat and started talking and found out we had LOTS of the same friends from the South Queens Boys club. Funny how when you are 16 you do not talk to the kids that are 13... now at 53 I'll talk to just about anyone who will listen.
If you remember me or my brother Bobby, Joe (killed in a motorcycle accident) or sister Diane drop me a line. We all live in Suffolk only a few miles from one another. If you want to suprise me and come to a show you can check my schedule at www.myspace.com/billybingo
Later Folks, Billy Bingo Denis
Added: February 24, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Rafael Rivas
From: Jacksonville, Florida
E-mail: rafa.rivas.6@gmail.com

Diana Wantola, (If anyone knows her, please say to her that i say Hello!) and I will be verry thanksfull for it. I realy want to see Diana after so many years (maybe 32 or 33 ). My email is in this guestbook. Thanks so much from Rafael Rivas.
Added: February 24, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
bob rainis
From: long island
E-mail: elcadcnrainis@optonline.net

Bill Heaney, you and I graduated from HCJ in '71, in those days we were in the same class (A or B) for our whole school expereince. That was the case until the 8th grade. Andy Shea, another classmate is on this site, he went to St John's prep, me- St Francis prep when it was still in Brooklyn.
Number of guys from RH went to the Prep, when it was all boys and the brothers were known to tune you up for the slighest infraction! I got two black eyes from the same "brother" in one day! There was a flick, years back about a fictious Brooklyn boys HS (Donald Sutherland played the Franciscan Principal)... it was the PREP all over, except for the nude swimming, that was St John's. Back in the day that was the norm. Freshman year we competed against St John's, the prep had blue/red speedo's, St john's well... didn't recognize Shea. The church I serve in the Bronx caught fire on jan 3, thankfully it was limited to the social hall/basement.
Been back in the neighborhood as recently as last week paying a "pastoral visit" to a fmr member of the now closed St Paul's Lutheran on 114th St. Good to check in every once in a while... shame about St bennie's though. SBJL actually 'planted" HCJ.
Added: February 23, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
mary johnson
From: long branch nj
E-mail: mjohnson@pershing.com

Hi Folks!
Speaking of the old neighborhood, I went back recently to see the house my parents owned once on 134th St. It looks entirely different. I drove right past the house at first; I didn't recognize it. Of course I hadn't seen it since around 1963. But what a transformation! It used to have a big front yard as well as a back yard. But it seems they added onto the house in front and made like an enclosed porch and put a big white fence outside all around it.
I was kind of surprised but felt like whoever lived there took pride in their home. It made me feel good. There are still people who care and want to live in a nice community and be good citizens. Even in this day and age when so much of the bad is published and never the good. Have a good day everyone Regards Mary
Added: February 23, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Fred Sloviko
From: Thurmont Md.
E-mail: ramblereinn@comcast.net

Does anyone remember the Checker Diner across from the RKO and Jahn's? My father owned it from the mid 40's to around 1957.
Added: February 23, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Steven Calise
From: Commack / 111th street
E-mail:

How do they close down Jahns ???????
Added: February 22, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Susan M. Karaban Maxwell
From: 120th & 121 st between 109th & 107th
E-mail: max3456@5107sitca.net

I grew up in Richmond Hill. Now live in Texas.
The place sure is not the same.
Added: February 22, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
John Celauro
From: Centre Island, NY
E-mail: jac4c@aol.com

A few comments about Salerno's.
Growing up in the 60' and 70's in Rich Hill, my parents, being Italian, went to Salerno's all the time with us, their beloved children. Some of you may recall my siblings... my sister Virginia, my younger brother Frank. Anyway, we used to go there all the time to celebrate whatever event.
When I achieved semi-adulthood, age 20 or so, I took my date and future wife, Roseann Garretto on our very first date there. Despite the soon to be described disaster, this poor woman did eventually marry me. Nonetheless, our beginning was less than auspicious. We arrived at Salerno's for dinner and the maitre d promtly seated us with a wink. Nothing but the best table, near the kitchen for the scion of one of Salerno's favorite clients. Roseann was oh so impressed with the table and the fact that this place was far beyond her (and mine) usual haunts of pizzaerias and Jahns. We were in the big time and she knew it.
While scanning the menu and the exotic dishes of fried calarmi and veal parmesan and the like to her, the maitre d' brought our Shirley Temples and Roy Rogers drinks, cherries and all. All was fine.
After ordering our meal, our now friend, the gracious maitre'd, comes over and proclaims to me, that I have a telephone call. I say "what?" he repeats, you have a telephone call. I excuse myself from the table, saying to my date, "I have a telephone call". I see the wow factor on her face. Mr Maitre'd ushers me to the phone booth.
You recall phone booths, don't you? Anyway, this one had the glass doors that allowed you peer through and others to peer in. I sat and twiddled my fingers at my date sitting longingly at the table, awaiting my return from the telephone call. She twiddles her fingers back. I point to phone all the while, sort of wordlessly saying "I have a telephone call". My head bobbed back and forth, as I picked up the phone. I said hello and heard back "Hey Big Shot, how does it feel to get a phone call in a restaurant?." The caller then abruptly hung up.
I am mortified and clueless as to what to do. I decide to fake talk into a dead phone, again twiddling my fingers at my date and thinking to myself that I was going to shoot my father when I got home. What was I going to say when I got back back to the table? How could I tell her it was my father who called?
I left the booth, and once again the maitre d' winked at me. The most feared question in my life, had shrunken to my date asking "Who was it?". To this day, 40 years later, I still can't tell her. Ahh Salerno's. (wink wink)
Added: February 21, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
John Celauro
From: Centre Island, NY
E-mail: jac4c@aol.com

A few comments about Salerno's.
Growing up in the 60' and 70's in Rich Hill, my parents, being Italian, went to Salerno's all the time with us, their beloved children. Some of you may recall my siblings... my sister Virginia, my younger brother Frank. Anyway, we used to go there all the time to celebrate whatever event.
When I achieved semi-adulthood, age 20 or so, I took my date and future wife, Roseann Garretto on our very first date there. Despite the soon to be described disaster, this poor woman did eventually marry me. Nonetheless, our beginning was less than auspicious. We arrived at Salerno's for dinner and the maitre d promtly seated us with a wink. Nothing but the best table, near the kitchen for the scion of one of Salerno's favorite clients. Roseann was oh so impressed with the table and the fact that this place was far beyond her (and mine) usual haunts of pizzaerias and Jahns. We were in the big time and she knew it.
While scanning the menu and the exotic dishes of fried calarmi and veal parmesan and the like to her, the maitre d' brought our Shirley Temples and Roy Rogers drinks, cherries and all. All was fine.
After ordering our meal, our now friend, the gracious maitre'd, comes over and proclaims to me, that I have a telephone call. I say "what?" he repeats, you have a telephone call. I excuse myself from the table, saying to my date, "I have a telephone call". I see the wow factor on her face. Mr Maitre'd ushers me to the phone booth.
You recall phone booths, don't you? Anyway, this one had the glass doors that allowed you peer through and others to peer in. I sat and twiddled my fingers at my date sitting longingly at the table, awaiting my return from the telephone call. She twiddles her fingers back. I point to phone all the while, sort of wordlessly saying "I have a telephone call". My head bobbed back and forth, as I picked up the phone. I said hello and heard back "Hey Big Shot, how does it feel to get a phone call in a restaurant?." The caller then abruptly hung up.
I am mortified and clueless as to what to do. I decide to fake talk into a dead phone, again twiddling my fingers at my date and thinking to myself that I was going to shoot my father when I got home. What was I going to say when I got back back to the table? How could I tell her it was my father who called?
I left the booth, and once again the maitre d' winked at me. The most feared question in my life, had shrunken to my date asking "Who was it?". To this day, 40 years later, I still can't tell her. Ahh Salerno's. (wink wink)
Added: February 21, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Susan Cairns Newman
From: Duluth, Georgia
E-mail: jnewwm@bellsouth.net

I graduated from Holy Child in 1959, Mary Louis in 1963, and St. John's in 1967. Got married in Holy Child Jesus Church in 1968 and have 2 adult sons.
We have been in Georgia for 33 years. My dad passed away in 2007 at the age of 93. My mom is 91 and lives with us.
Added: February 20, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Sharon Fine Draisin
From: Huntington, N.Y.
E-mail: stilfine@gmail.com

Hi... As you can see, my maiden name was Fine.
My family lived on 121st St., between 97th Ave and 101st Ave. I went to PS 57, 55, and 121, graduating in 1955. I graduated from Richmond Hill HS in 1959. I had lots of friends and would like to get in touch with any or all of them.
At the same time, my brother Stu had a friend named Tony Pepe who lived off 97th Ave. on either 124th or 125th St. They went to PS 57 and Brooklyn Tech together, and Stu would love to find Tony. I'd be grateful for any help. Thanks.
Added: February 19, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Dennis Doyle
From: Richmond Hill, NY
E-mail: richmondh.hill.history@gmail.com

Hey Jeffrey, Mr. Bates!
How are you doin'? Thanks so much for your visit and keeping Nancy in your prayers. So glad you can connect with old friends. Wow, I remember Glen, I believe he lived right near where I worked for the LI Press on 113th and 101 Ave. Hopefully Mike Deegan will pay us a surprise visit once again.

Bill Heaney!?!
When I read your name I knew I knew you but from where. Then when I read your comment, it confirms that I knew you but I can't truly visualize you. I hate that. My memory stinks sometimes. I know I know you but I can't picture you. Please forgive my blankness, and I truly appreciate your memory of me. Yes softball at RHHS schoolyard in the summer, plus swimming at the pool in the Hill, and hangin' out on those steps on 91st Ave.

richie lovaglio:
I certainly remember Ronny Gorecki. He lived just around the corner from me. He was a bit older than me (4 yrs.) and I thought he was pretty cool. He lived above the "Family Bakery" that his family owned on Jam. Ave. betwn 114th and 115th Sts. He was such a good baseball player. I believe he played in Minor League or Farm League for the Mets. He later became a Phys Ed. teacher at the Hill during my senior year at RHHS. Because of him I became "Locker Guard" during 10th period Gym which is another story all together.
Added: February 19, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
richie lovaglio
From: rockledge, fl
E-mail:

hi bill heaney,
you played softball with my brother nicky. also you played with ronnie garecky, kevin hayes and the big guy bobby. i played ball with your brother kevin, how are you guys. i hung out in the school yard off of jamaica.
Added: February 19, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Jeffrey Bates
From: Newburgh N.Y.
E-mail: cinbat2@aol.com

hellow Dennis, Sorry to here about Nancy, God be with her.
I am happy to say that I found Jimmy Kravcivnas or he found me. We got together and still have alot in common. I would really like to find Mike Deegan, so far no luck. I also found Glen Wolfinger.
Your sight is the best. Thanks
Added: February 18, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
richard lovaglio
From: rockledge, fl
E-mail:

hey funsi, richie lavag.
i played hockey with you and your brothers. aslo the mccans at the boys club and 62pk. hope everything well with you and your family and how is vinny sanamo
Added: February 18, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Bill Heaney
From: lincroft new jersey
E-mail:

just found this site, grad. 67 from holy child, and 71 from bishop loughlin, its fun looking at the names of some people, and it brings back memories, lived on 109 st between jamaica and 91 ave.
I see dennis doyle is on here, hello dennis do you remember me... softball at richmond hill h.s... lol... oh well just saying hello to all.
Added: February 16, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
John Fehling
From: New Hyde Park NY
E-mail: Batteach@aol.com

I have enjoyed reading the entries by the former and current residents of Richmond Hill.
My Grandfather purchased the house that I called home in 1928. I lived there from 1943 to 1966. The address was 86-35 121 St. I attended HCJ school and graduated in 1957. I later went on to Bishop Loughlin HS in Brooklyn.
I do return a few times each year but am sad as to what I see. My old home has bars on the first floor windows and has taken on the appearance of a jail. Well I guess that is progress. I wish all the best to my friends of years ago.
Added: February 16, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Mary Hamel
From: Ma.
E-mail: ma5hm@aol.com

Class of 62' does anyone remember St. John Edmond also 8th grade.
Added: February 16, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Vince Glasser
From: Claremore Ok
E-mail: vinceglasser@cox.net

I was truly saddened to hear that SBJL was closing.
Why if it wasn't for Sister Agnes Jeromita in the 8th grade would probably still have a full head of hair. Actually, God bless her for tolerating me. I was too busy working on my standup routine to do my work. Richmond Hill was a wonderful place to grow up. During the summer we would play stickball on 123rd St. from early morning until it was too dark to see the ball anymore.
Then there was the "world series" between 121 St & 123rd. It was our world series anyway. Between those 2 streets there was a great bunch of kids.
I'd like to thank those that work so hard to keep this page alive. I have been checking guestbook entries for about a year now and it has brought back some wonderful memories.
Added: February 15, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Eileen Morin (Tierney)
From: Howard Beach NY
E-mail: eye727@aol.com

Sorry to hear about SBJL closing.
Anyone from the class of January 1957 I would love to hear from you. Recently got together with Kathleen Flanagan so good to see old friends.
Added: February 14, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Dennis G
From: Ozone Park
E-mail:

Whats up Bill Peck, how are you doing.
Added: February 14, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
edward bornschein
From: east rockaway ny
E-mail: eddieb1222@aol.com

to barry cosgrove:
that was sunnyside garden's, any question's email me or post on rich hill
Added: February 14, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Teresa Smith Pedone
From: PA (weekends) / NYC (weekdays)
E-mail:

SBJL Closing - Reunion in April or March
SBJL would like you to contact THEM with your info for thier open house reunion. Here is the contact numbers for you:
SBJL's phone number is 718-441-6674 and the fax number is 718-441-4367
Added: February 13, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
paul galbraith
From: highland falls ny
E-mail: pgalbraith1956@msn.com

Hi Dennis, We were neighbors.
I lived at 85-44 111th St and was good buddies with thomas pholman who lived next store to you. we moved from RH in 1974 and the Quervos bought the house. I was also friends with Don Rudolph who lived on 111th St between 86th and Jamaica Aves. I was out there this past Summer and saw Ronnie Hoeffner and his wife who now own the Pohlman home and my next store neighbor Lisa Corridore.
Except for Jamaica Avenue the neighborhood looks extremely good. Paul
Added: February 13, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Dougie Flynn
From: Merrick ny
E-mail: dflynn33@verizon.net

Mike Lavaglio, Thanks for the info. Dougie Flynn
Added: February 12, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Anthony Mastromarco
From: Long Island
E-mail: Stayto@aol.com

I went to St Benidict Joseph's.
I would have graduated in 1980 but my family moved out of the neighborhood in 1979. I have an older brother Vincent who went to the school also. I heard they are looking to close the school next year do to budget cuts. I was sadden by the news.
I googled the school to find out more information and came up with this site. If anyone was from that class please email me. Anthony
Added: February 12, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Teresa Smith Pedone
From: PA/NYC and 114th in Richmond Hill
E-mail: apedone@ptd.net

SBJL Closing in June 2009.
They are looking to get a list of all interested in attending an Open House Reunion in either April or May because of this closing.
Please send your name, address, and contact info via phone or fax as per below. They will contact you all the info when it is finalized.
Also, anyone from 1968 graduating class from SBJL please contact me at my email address as we are getting a Reunion together as well. Thanks and thanks to this website.
Added: February 12, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Dennis Rudolph
From: Levittown, N.Y.
E-mail: drrudy411@aol.com

Just got turned-on to this website yesterday and spent much of the last 2 days "catching up".
I lived in R.H. along with my parents Pat & Joe (currently residing in Oceanside) and 8 brothers & sisters. I think many of you will remember my Dad, Joe who worked and coached at Holy Child Jesus for decades! We lived at 95th Ave./111-112 Sts., then right behind the Church on 111th St. & 86th Ave., then on 106th St./Jamaica Ave. to 86th Ave. Brothers Joe, Gary, Tommy & Michael and sisters Nancy, Diane, Judy & Karyn.
Would like to hear from any and all. Don't hesitiate!!!
Long Live Richmond Hill (in whatever language their speaking !)
Added: February 12, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
richard lovaglio
From: rockledge, fl
E-mail: rlbomberone@aol.com

just want to say hi to everyone in richmond hill, my home town
Added: February 11, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Joanne Froehling Gojan
From: Greenville, SC
E-mail: jgojan@hotmail.com

To Marilyn Mayer
Hi - we were in the same class (69). How are you doing? Been a long time. There is a website for Holy Child graduates on Delphi Forums under Holy Child Alumni - its great - lots of classes on there.
Added: February 11, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Jonn Mulry
From: Chattanooga
E-mail: JonnNightwatcher@hotmail.com

Stephen,
Al's Stereo (which succeeded the C&F Bar&Grill owned by my Mom and stepfather) as of 2000 when I was last in the neighborhood is a West Indian sports bar.
While I got you here, what happened to you? did my bad boy image at P.S. 100 scare you off?
Added: February 11, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Stephen Mistretta
From: Forest, VA
E-mail: smistretta@verizon.net

Terrific website! Grew up between 107th and 109th Avenues on 115th Street.
Could not have wished for a better neighborhood or a better place to live. I haven't been back to visit in over 25 years. Anyone who hung out at O'Neills or Al's Stereo Bar please tell me what's become of both "institutions".
Added: February 10, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Dennis Doyle
From: Richmond Hill, NY
E-mail: richmond.hill.history@gmail.com

To Frank Onolfi:
Sorrento's is located where Salerno was once located next to RKO movie theatre.
Sorrento's Restaurant
117-11 Hillside Ave
Richmond Hill, NY 11418
718-850-2100
Added: February 10, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Frank Onolfi
From: Maryland
E-mail: ccheney@sbcglobal.net

Where is Sorrento's Restaurant, I'd like to check it out?
Added: February 10, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Chris Cheney
From: Santa Ana, CA
E-mail: ccheney@sbcglobal.net

I'm looking for any information on the Richmond Hill Sanitarium or Sanatarium. This is for genealogic research.
I have a friend who was born there in the 1940s and I'm helping her with her family tree. If you know about this facility or anyone we might contact about it, please let me know. Thanks!
Added: February 10, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Sean Scharf
From: Kew Gardens, NY
E-mail:

To: Marilyn Mayer-Gaffney regarding Salerno's
I do not know the "politics" of Salerno's Restaurant or Sorrento's. All I know is that I went there for an Italian dinner there a week ago and I was thoroughly pleased with the food, the service, and the atmosphere.
Added: February 9, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Mary Hamel
From: New Bedford, Ma
E-mail: ma5hm@aol.com

Re: Salerno's --
I remember it well, going there after dance or a birthday and when the city of NY was closed down in 1969? I got engaged there, couldn't make it to the City so we walked in the snow to Salerno's up 118th st and 89th ave passed 102, to Salerno's Feb 14, 1969
Added: February 9, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
John Saladino
From: Wantagh, NY
E-mail: jssdino@optonline.net

To Marilyn Mayer-Gaffney.
Regarding Sister Wiletta, after Holy Child she went on to teach at Mary Louis Academy in Jamaica in the 1970's. There she was known as Sister Elizabeth Schroeder. I met her there when I was in a TMLA spring musical in 1974 in my senior year of HS.
I also had the occasion of meeting here around 2000 when I was a copier sales rep. I met her at a trade show and at the time she was the principal of a Catholic Elementary school in Brooklyn.
Added: February 7, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Ronnie Jones
From: brooklyn, ny
E-mail: juicygirls94@aol.com

I lived on 85th road off 102nd street.
I was talking to my sister Mary Jones Santopetro and she was telling me about this website. What a wonderful way to get in touch with and hear from special people from the past.
Growing up you may have known me and my family by my sister Mary and my brothers George and Kenny. I went to P.S66 and P.S90, Mary had told me she got intouch with Judy Schmitz exuse my spelling if its wrong, what wonderful memories we have of growing up in Richmond Hill. I have bin searching for years for my best friend Barbara LeMayer she lived off Liberty on Lefferts blvd. Shes a twin to John sister of Ralph and Robert, if anyone knows of her or where she might be please comment me back or email me, thankyou.
Just want to say once again what a great site, all the fun in forest park, the bowling ally, the rko, and the sled riding down the hill in the school yard of PS66. If anyone knows of me and my family i would love to here from you. thank you.
Added: February 6, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Marilyn Mayer-Gaffney
From: Richmond Hill, New York
E-mail:

To Anyone Who Remembers Salerno's Italian Restaurant:
As some of us know, it was bought last year by people of Indian decent. That was supposed to have been kept a secret, while they still kept the same staff in the front and cooks in the back. It was called the "New" Salerno's until the Salerno family didn't want their name used anymore, no longer owning it. It then became Sorrento's Italian Restaurant, glowing in their neon sign.
Awhile back it changed saying "Now serving Italian and Indian food." As I happened to look at it the other day, the Italian is not lit up anymore and a big red neon sign has been added to the top saying "Royal Punjab." I have many memories of Salerno's beginning with my first Communion until late. Anyone know where to get a nice Italian dinner?
P.S. Nothing's been done with Jahn's yet, only a few doors away. Montezuma's Mexican Restaurant never opened and there's still papers taped to the window over a year later. All we know is that the whole interior and fixtures were sold for big $, as the building was gutted. It's becoming an eye-sore and the exterior alone is in dire need of help! Another loss!
Added: February 5, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Dennis Egan
From: Hilton Head SC
E-mail: egand@hargray.com

To Maureen Whalen Bovet...
I have the graduation picture from the HCJ Class of 1964 that included you. There were 57 of us in that picture.
Added: February 5, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Jim Delvers
From: Oregon
E-mail: jimdelvers@comcast.net

I lived in RH from 1963-1969, Lefferts and 91st. The house is still in the family. Hung out on 121st.
I remember Willie's deli located on Lefferts (great Potato Salad), he had to move his shop the south side of Atlantic Ave. Couple of years later he sold it to a nice couple. Who continued to make that great Potato Salad.
Also remember Tony the shoe repair guy. Pete the Barber, G&O's, SBJL was the church I went to, but attended PS51 Class of '66 and JHS210 Class of '69. I had alot of great times and great friends during that time.
Visiting this site brings back alot of fun memories.
Added: February 3, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Chris Smith
From: Floral Park
E-mail:

Barry Cosgrove:
Niedersteins was demolished and is now an Arby's. The Triangle looks mostly the same on the outside but it is now a medical office. Jahn's is a Mexican restaurant.
Added: February 3, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Marilyn Mayer-Gaffney
From: Richmond Hill, New York
E-mail:

Hi Anthony, I'm so glad you wrote back!
Since you mention the Bishop being at the dedication of the new building, it's appearing more clear to me now, but how much do I remember, being 11 or 12. You must have a great memory! I don't remember Sister Francis Agnes, but obviously I was in the school at that time. I don't think we did the changing of the classes as per say as you did. I vaguely remember probably in 7th or more likely 8th, that they wanted to prepare us for high school. IF we did change, it wsan't on a regular basis and how far did we go? Next door?! LOL Maybe it was a once in a while thing or possibly another teacher or 2 would come to us.
If there's anyone out there from Holy Child, class of '69 that remembers better than me, please refresh my memory. Basically we always had the one assigned teacher that we got in September who taught everything. We didn't even have gym and felt lucky in the lower or middle grades if they let us out in the school yard to play on a nice day. That was a rarity! We had music and art, I think once a week, only in the later years that I was there, having the same teachers as you.
You made me laugh, being one that Miss Trumbetta tossed. You're not the only one, having seen it before. Yes, we all came out of that school traumatized by someone! LOL Even though there's only 3 years between us, I'll bet you missed out on the teen dances or did you?
They were so much fun on a Fri. or Sat. night and the bands were great! We'd all look forward to them. I also used to love going to the plays every summer, usually knowing someone in them. I know they still have them.
Anyway, thanks for writing back and testing my brain again! Please keep the questions and stories coming. It's so much fun to share after all of this time. It's always a pleasure, Anthony! Take care, Marilyn
Added: February 2, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Barry Cosgrove
From: Brockton, Ma.
E-mail:

I was raised in Richmond Hill in the mid-50's to 60's, and moved to Brockton after graduating elementary school.
I'm sure the boxing fans out there know that Brockton, Massachusetts was home to the beloved boxing great Rocky Marciano, still the only undefeated heavyweight in boxing history, retiring with a record of 49-0 with 43 knockouts. I remember my grandfather telling me about the boxing arena in neighboring Ridgewood, where Rocky and other up and coming fighters would box on Friday nights during the 1940's-50's.
Does anybody remember anything about this? What a great time, to take the family out to the fights, then dinner at the Triangle Hofbrau or Neiderstein's in Glendale, and probably all for less than a $20 bill!
I check this website regularly and enjoy reliving the memories. I wish more of the older residents would write in with their stories of the old neighborhood. I hope to visit soon and see what's changed and what's still the same.
Added: February 2, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Jasoni Vincenzi
From: Anchorage, Alaska
E-mail:

Hey! It's been a long time since I visited this site. Great comments! I'm thinking about coming to Richmond Hill in March. Can't wait!
Added: January 31, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Alfonso (FUNZI) DeMartino
From: 95-41 109 street
E-mail: ldemartino@nycap.rr.com

hung out at 62 park. 109st. 101 ave. great times in richmond hill.
Added: January 31, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Teresa Tomblin
From: TX
E-mail: akaav8fox@aol.com

HAHAH... Rosemarie... I have to say... I remember you too Hugs... Teresa...
Hey have ya heard from Margaret lately? Thanks to this site I have been found by a long lost friend. :)
Added: January 30, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Theresa E. Mccabe
From: new york, NY
E-mail: tmccabe212@aol.com

For the decedents of John and Rose Dowd who would have been born in the early 1900s.
My grandparents, John Mahoney and Catherine O'Neill, had their wedding reception at the home of John and Rose. We know the home was in Woodhaven. We do not have the address. We are looking for the address so we can find the parish my grandparents were married in as I am seeking my Irish citzenship and need their marriage certificate.
I noticed that Richmond Hill is in Woodhaven and that there is a John Dowd on this site so I thought I would ask for help.
Many Thanks (I know it's a long shot), Theresa McCabe (desperately seeking Ireland)
Added: January 30, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Anthony Palmisano
From: Lynbrook, NY
E-mail:

Hi Marilyn, Thanks for writing back.
I'm not sure if the dedication for the new building was '69 or '68. I can't remember, but I do remember the bishop being there for the dedication. Funny you should remember Miss Trumbetta going around the class listening to us sing. I remember her doing something similar which was having all the boys line up in front of her desk and then all the girls. One at a time she would listen to us sing. I was one of the ones that got tossed out and was mortified.
Glad to hear Mrs. Petrilla was seen around the neighborhood recently. I was wondering if you remember a nun named Sister Francis Agnes. I went to P.S.90 for 1st. grade and for religious instructions she was my teacher. When you were at HCJ did you have departmental (the changing of classes). I remember in the 6th. grade we started changing classrooms instead of the teachers coming to us we went to the various classrooms.
Marilyn, it has been really nice talking to you through this site. Keep in touch and all the best. Anthony.
Added: January 30, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Maureen Whalen Bovet
From: Lexington, MA
E-mail: dbovet@aol.com

I recently saw the movie DOUBT which sent me back to my memories of Holy Child school 1955 to 1964.
We lived on 110th St and I remember climbing up and then down the stairs of the ell train to get across Jamacia Ave on my way to school. I have a photo from 1955 when I was in kindergarten with Sr Carol and friends do not believe there were 60 kids in my class.
Once my sister in 5th grade forgot to fetch me home and Sr Carol took me over to the convent to wait to be picked up. I was so astonished to see the sisters with their bib off!
I used to love to go with my friend Julie Bisbee when she went to the German bakery to buy bread and other goodies for the sisters. I wonder what the neighbors used to think when they had to listen to the marching music the school used to broadcast into the school yard as we marched in line into the building twice a day. Boy did I love it when I had a nickel for a big pretzel during recess.
On the avenue I remember stopping each time I passed the window of the florist who had wrist birthday coursages in the window, eight dog biscuits for your 8th birthday seemed like a big deal to me.
I have never heard from old friends Susan or Janet Petrowich who also lived on my block. Hope they are doing well wherever they are. I know my old friend Wayne Terzano passed away too young. I moved away in 1965 and have not been back since altho my daughter now lived in Manhattan.
I have lived all over the US and even a few years in Europe and my memories of Richmond Hill always go along with me. My best wishes to fellow travelers.
Added: January 29, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Bev Shaw
From: MO
E-mail: rachandhorses@yahoo.com

I was reading abought Mr. Jack Lord a.k.a. John Joseph Patric Ryan...
I had met him some 45 years ago, back when I was 9 or 10 years old. Back then he had given me a painting that he said he had painted a whil back and I treasured it, but it got lost during a move.
I read that he made quite a few paintings that he sold, but can not find hide or hair of anything about his paintings now. Is there any where where one could see on the internet, or buy any of his paintings or sketches even???
I also read that he made a book called Jack Lord's Hawaii, which was to containe photos of his paintings, but can not find any thing abought that either...
I would greatly appreciate any direction you could provide .... Thanks so much Bev.
Added: January 28, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Mike Lovaglio
From: East Northport
E-mail:

Doug, I do remember Carol and Nancy, but I have no idea what became of them.
Added: January 27, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Thomas Pepe
From: Saylorsburg, PA
E-mail: moparpep@ptd.net

I graduated SBJL in 1971.
We were the first class to have our class photos taken in 1971. It still remained in a frame outside the principals office in the late 1980's. I was a Police Officer in the 102 PCT until I retired in 1995.
I remember the SBJL teen club dances in the auditorium (gym) in the 70's. Live bands (Shock and Rampage). Met my wife of 31 years there. Fond memories of my old stomping ground. I Lived on 126 street and 97th Avenue.
Still keep in touch with my best friend Chris De Falco after 52 years of friendship. And Lori Eisenbarth. Love you both.... Tommy Pepe
Added: January 27, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Marilyn Mayer -Gaffney
From: Richmond Hill, New York
E-mail:

Hi Anthony P. {Class of '73},
Yes, isn't it funny that many don't remember the new school is obviously an extension, but as I say, I don't remember the construction myself. It wasn't there and then it was! LOL Could the dedication ceremony have been in '69 or around when I was graduating? It sounds so familiar!
That's so nice that you're in touch with a former teacher. Though I don't remember her, I do remember the Nuns, though I didn't have any as my teachers, maybe since I graduated a few years before you. Of course I had Mrs. Petrilla, though I had {I think her name was} Mrs. Cassidy before who left when she had a baby. I believe Mrs. Petrilla is still local here, though I haven't seen her. An ex-neighbor/friend told me that he had seen her on the Avenue a few years ago. I will have to ask around. As for Miss Trumbetta, I think we all had her. She'd come once a week carrying her portable keyboard, which looked like a suitcase! LOL
I remember joining the choir to sing at the lighting of the Christmas tree in Forest Park near the pond, probably in the mid-60's, having to stay after school to practice. She was good but tough, but that's what it took to get a good choir. She'd go around the room listening to each one of us sing and if someone was out of key, she'd throw them out, like an umpire thowing a player out of a game. LOL I know we practiced for months and we were doing three part harmonies, which wasn't easy. I'm sure it wasn't my imagination when I think back, but we were good and something to be proud of. Unfortunately, that was a past thing in Richmond Hill which made it a sweet community.
As for the priests, Msr. Murry was first in charge when I was very young. When he passed Msr. Leonard took over. He was very personable, always walking the neighborhood talking to everyone. I believe he passed from Altzeimer's possibly in the late '80's, early'90's, I'm not sure. The convent as we remember is now the Leonard Center named after him, which is used for meetings and such. Fr. Lockwood was there in the earlier years. Father White was also a friendly one. I remember him visiting our class to talk to us, as well as years later seeing him walking around the neighoborhood, always with a big hello and making conversation with everyone. I also remember Father Rogers, but not as well as the others.
Wow, look what you started! You really have me thinking back to those days now! As for my friend and former classmate, Joseph McBride, apology accepted. I'm sorry myself if I sounded sarcastic but when you said that you were looking for '69 alumni, I felt slighted, knowing that I had written to you a few times. I know that you wrote back in the fall when you and some others took my announcement the wrong way, thinking it was an official reunion. We have a Classic Rock band and were signed to play in Forest Park, but while some classmates had planned to come, Hurricane Hanna had another plan for us unfortunately, getting rained out.
Sure I remember Joe Depalo. How is he doing? As for the guys, I used to run into and talk to Peter Savino, who I think is still in the neighborhood a few years ago, as well as Reggie Rollins. I am in touch with Reggie on My Space, where we have a band site, "Nightwing" band. He seems to be doing well for himself. As for the girls, I've spoken to Marilyn Chingas by phone, heard from Kim Castleberry, Maryellen Mahoney {who left in 7th grade} and many more from either high school or growing up. I feel like I'm forgetting others that just aren't coming to mind now. It's a blast from the past, I'll tell 'ya.
Anyway, I wish that we could have a reunion. I had been to the school reunions in the 80's which were great, though not a big turn out for our grade. Well, hopefully someday and if I hear of any plans, you'll be the first one I notify. Peace, Marilyn
Added: January 27, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Joseph McBride
From: Virginia
E-mail: jgmcbride@verizon.net

This is a public apology to Marilyn Mayer-Gaffney.
To my best recollection I have written you back every time you wrote. If I didn't, I sincerely apologize. I do enjoy writing people I have known from my past. I went back and forth with Joe Depalo recently (remember him?). Thank you for pointing out my shortcoming (trust me I have plenty, lol)
I'll try to do better in the future.
Added: January 26, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Doug Flynn
From: merrick ny
E-mail:

Mike Lovaglio do you remember Carol and Nancy Bonvicino and if you do, any idea what ever happened to them?
Added: January 26, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Aurelia Santolla Kieffer
From: Midland, Texas
E-mail: fkief55224@aol.com

I remember Sister St. Lucy and Sister Marion Concilio.
Since I graduated from Holy Child in 1961 I was taught by those sisters in the '50's.
Added: January 26, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Martin Molloy
From: West Babylon
E-mail: Memar3@aol.com

Love this site; just heard from a friend of mine who i would not have been able to get in touch with without this site.
Added: January 26, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Judi Schmitz
From: new jersey
E-mail: jfrederico@ccts.net

Does anybody know what happened to The Rizzuti girls (Janet, Lynn,or Bettyanne) or any of the Sica family from 102nd street?
Added: January 26, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Anthony Palmisano
From: Lynbrook, NY
E-mail:

Hi Maureen, Thanks for writing back.
In response to your question about how I knew of the passing of many of the teachers from HCJ I am in contact with Sister Margaret O'Donnell and Sister Rosemary and also Mrs. O'Rourke who taught third grade. I actually saw Mrs. O'Rourke several years ago at our reunion (Class of 73) and have kept in contact with her. I remember Sister Willetta definately although I never had her as a teacher.
I'm glad someone besides me actually remembers the "new school" as it was called. I also remember they had a dedication ceremony for it. Do you remember any of the priests that were assigned to HCJ? Msgr. McGirr, Msgr. Raymond (I think I have his name correct, but not sure) Father Moore, Father White, Father Rogers, and Father Lockwood.
Do you know anything of Mrs. Petrilla or Miss Trumbetta the art and music teachers? Just curious. Thanks for remembering me. Best regards, Anthony
Added: January 26, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Marilyn Mayer-Gaffney
From: Richmond Hill, N.Y.
E-mail:

In reference to Anthony Palmisano's question, I remember the new school being added to Holy Child.
I am a graduate of '69, so I never had a class in there, though I got a glimpse of it, getting a kick out of going through the connecting tunnel. I vaguely can picture the area before as just being the fenced in school yard and a Bulletin board in the front announcing the Masses. It's ironic that I was in the school at the time and don't recall the construction of it all too much though, maybe since being young.
I am sorry to hear about the passing of so many of our teachers, knowing of all of them and more. I had Sr. Regina Margaret, Sr. Elizabeth was the Pricinpal of course, but does anyone remember Sr. Maureen? She was Principal when I first started, though not for too long before Sr. Elizabeth took over. Miss Sheridan was wonderful. I had her in 2nd Grade and we'd ride the bus together some days after school. By the way, how did you find out about them? I still live nearby and I don't hear anything. Then again, I don't ask. I saw many at a reunion, in the late 80's. What astonished me was seeing Sr. Willetta. Does anyone remember her? She was the best and I didn't know it was her until someone pointed to a lady in an orange business suit by the Church. Sure enough it was her and she was as sweet as when she taught me in 4th Grade, not aging a day! She knew who I was as well as my friends, even remembering where I lived, which amazed me. What a wonderful person and a great teacher at that. God Bless her and all!
In response to Joseph Mc., class of '69, I am glad that you heard from a classmate and are hoping to hear from others. Have you written them back though? I've had great luck on classmates, being in touch with quite a few, including some close friends from high school and planning to get together with some after keeping in touch by phone since '07. It's a nice thing getting reaquainted and excited at the idea of seeing each other again. My advice is if you hear from someone, write back to them. It's only common courtesy. The only reason I say that is that I've written you more than once and you only wrote back when you misread that I was having a reunion. That's okay though. I have plenty of friends and I was just being nice as were the others. No hard feelings, I mean we are all equals.
Good luck to you, hope you reconnect with an old classmate and I guess we'll see you at a reunion when it happens.
Added: January 25, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Aurelia Santolla Kieffer
From: Midland, Texas
E-mail: fkief55224@aol.com

I am so sad the SBJS is closing.
I went to Holy Child from 1953 to 1961. I remember those dances as well. That is what we all did on Friday nights. I lived at 114-80 Metropolitan Avenue until 1970 when I got married and moved away. My parents lived there until 1982.
Added: January 24, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Christine Menzel Fitzpatrick
From: Poughkeepsie NY
E-mail: chris_fitz@juno.com

Hi, What a great site!
Even if I don't know everyone I have the same memories. I lived on 114 between 101 and 103 from 1959 until 1981 with my family (Marion, Gerry, sister Pat and grandmother downstairs). I went to St. Benny's ('73 graduate)(which I heard was closing - which made me so sad) and then to CK.
The memories of the candy stores, the movie theaters, the bowling allies, and walking to Liberty Ave to get everything you needed is such a rush. Playing handball at the factory (101 and 114 St). Remembering the teen club at St. Benny's and the dances. Father Smith set up so many great trips for us.
There was always something to do in Richmond Hill, with so many great friends. I could go on about memories but I don't want to take up too much space.
Would love to hear from more people. Happy New Year.. Chris
Added: January 23, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Larry Smathers
From: Sacramento, CA
E-mail:

I was born (1950) and raised in Richmond Hill during the early sixties.
I joined the Navy and then settled in California. I have not been in Richmond Hill since the 1960s. It's been a real pleasure finding this website and I want to thank all who contribute to this website for making it possible for those who miss the neighborhood to share their memories of Richmond Hill.
Added: January 22, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Kathy Giambertone Rapach
From: Savannah, Georgia
E-mail: krapach@comcast.net

Hi Ginger Kopp, I read your comment and it really touched me.
It's a shame how people treat each other. I've seen it here when I moved to Savannah. But as time went on and more Yankees moved in, it got better.
What school did you go to (grammar or highschool? We have many friend that would love to make you feel better about yourself. How old was your husband when he passed away.
Please email us the information we need and we all can help. That is what we were on earth to do - help each other. Send me an email even if you can't do it on this site, don't put it off... we can help! We will keep you in our prayers.
Added: January 21, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Ginger Kopp
From: Hollidaysburg, Pa.
E-mail: kopp_gina@yahoo.com

Hi to Nancy Favilla, I, too, lived near you in Pa. Now I am even further from my favorite place of all, Richmond Hill.
I enjoy this site so much and all of the memories cannot ever be replaced as that was the best years of our (or at least, mine) lives.
I remember each and every place that has been mentioned and nowhere I have ever lived has anything comparable. I know it has changed but it was the friendliness and neighborly atmosphere that abounded there. That probably has changed also, but if I could revisit my days there, even for a week, I would be so much happier.
My husband died last June, so I had to move away from where you now live. I lived on the border of Pike and Monroe Counties, Greeme township which is a little spot of nothingness. I do know Sterling, however, and now I have had a taste of two of my prior homes, in just this one visit.
It is a shame, (I read that post about the helping older people) with such sadness, since it is the way it is now. I have dug my own car out of ice and snow this week, and all of the other tenants, all young and able and guys to boot, watched from behind curtains or openly laughed while hoisting a few.
Richmond Hill was so different and every neighbor, whether we were particularly fond of them or not, should they call for help or even look like they needed some, one could count on someone to come running. We were also tolerant of other races, religions, etc., and I am writing this on Inauguration Day, and am thinking how Pa. for example, has a lot of hatred for minorities, people from other States and sometimes even their nearest neighbor.
How can this be? This is the United States of America, yet it is not united in every State. Do you remember anyone in Richmond Hill, in our days or even later, who even used the word hate. I do not. I lived near Liberty Ave., and my friends were all of the Jewish girls from the stores, the little black girl (there was only one in P.S. 121 when I attended until 1949) the German girls who I never associated with the war going on, and every nice person of any Nationality, coming to my house to play, and prejudice was unheard of. Maybe that is because I am shanty Irish (kidding).
My sons, who all were in the Military always said that fellow members always said they heard how awful and cold people from N.Y. were. Not the New York we knew or our kids for that matter either. I was forced by circumstances beyond my control to move to this Central Pa. area now and you would be shocked. Not one person who lives in this apartment or lives in this area speak or even smile to each other. It is so cold it rivals the weather. We cannot go back to what we had but is this the way anyone wants to go forward?
Right now I am trying to find a place to rent for a few weeks in any part of Fla. just so I can regroup, get warm and think about all I have read here and where to fit in with a World that has gotten so uncaring. I know there has to be a place and am not a quitter. I may not have much money, but I do have determinatiion.
None of us, or at least my friends from Richmond Hill were rich, but we never felt poor, either. If we had a roof over our head, food in out tummies, we were happy campers. Of course we had so many friends, many of whom I still talk to at least once a month, neighbors and familiar places where store keepers knew your name and your parents as well. Maybe I am naieve but I think that maybe this new President will bring back some simple courtesy and love of neighbor, back into style. One can only hope and pray.
BTW if anyone has a place to rent in Fla. please let me know. I have to at least get warm for a few weeks. Ginger
Added: January 20, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Susan Persampieri
From: Geneseo, Illinois
E-mail:

My Daughter Katherine Persampieri (Tague) is looking for a 1988 yearbook from Richmond Hill High School.
Anyone haveing any leads to one?
Added: January 20, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Rafael Rivas
From: Jacksonville , Florida. U.S.A.
E-mail: rafar63@gmail.com

Hello. Does anyone had seen or know something about Diana Wantola?
If so, please tell her to contact me, my email is on this page and I will be very glad to reply to her, "A litle history", (Me, Rafael Rivas, and Diana Wantola use to be very good friends and in love in the year 1970 and that relation lasted for a good time. Now I want to talk to her and know what is of her life.)
I think it is very good to see a person that you know and you don't see for a long time... Thanks for your help in advance.
Added: January 18, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Mike Lovaglio
From: East Northport
E-mail: mlovag@yahoo.com

Shloshers (not sure of spelling) was next to the Chase Manhattan Bank on 115th St.
It did indeed have seating in the back and a bar next door(all connected) three doors down was another bar called Pete's Place and then The Corner Resturant on the Corner of 114th St.
I remember a little market on the other side of Jamaica ave. and 115th St. called Diamond Dairy. A little elderly man ran it.
How about the Hobby Shop two doors down, was it Larry's? Cameo's Pet Shop on the corner of 116th St. was there for the longest time. A lot of memories!
Added: January 18, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Chris Glasser
From: Corinth, Tx.
E-mail: glasschr7@aol.com

Upon recently hearing that S.B.J.L. will soon be closing, I went to the Roman Catholic Diocese of Brooklyn website for verification. Sadly enough it is true and S.B.J.L. is one of eleven schools proposed to close at the end of the 2008-2009 school year.
The eleven schools recommended for closure are: Flatbush Catholic Academy (Bk), St. Vincent Ferrer (Bk), Most Precious Blood (Bk), St. Elizabeth Ann Seton (Bk), Our Lady of Perpetual Help (Bk), Our Lady of Angels (Bk), St. Anthony of Padua (Qns), St. Benedict Joseph Labre (Qns), St. Catherine of Sienna (Qns), St. Aloysius (Qns) and Blessed Sacrament (Qns).
It appears that the changing demographic trend along with a struggling economy is now finally impacting the R.C.Church and it's community.
Added: January 17, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Linda Beyer
From: Silver Spring, MD
E-mail: lmchugh@american.edu

There were two delis a block apart and across Jamaica Ave. from one another. The German deli was Gassau & Camp near the corner of 114 St. and Woolworth's. It was the real old- fashioned thing, with huge celing fans, tin ceiling, even sawdust on the floors. Big barrel of pickles (Roberta McBride and I used to buy a pickle, have it cut and sit on the curb to eat the whole sour thing!). In the '60s they decided to modernize -- about 10 years before retro was in vogue and became a dull, ordinary-looking deli. Miles Shoe store and Loft's candy were on the two corners of 114 St.
Scholsser's was across Jamaica Ave. midway between 114 and 115 St. It was a fancier shop, good Jewish deli with half-sour pickles. I believe they had tables to sit and eat. Lipschutz, the stationery store was next door.
Added: January 15, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Judi Schmitz Frederico
From: Deptford, NJ
E-mail: jfrederico@ccts.net

I just stumbled across this site...
I went to PS 66 and PS 90 and lived on 85th rd off 102nd street. Are there any people from the neighborhood from 1952 - 1966? I remember all these places... let me know... my sister is Elaine and brother is Jack.
Added: January 15, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Bob Woods
From: Valley Stream, NY
E-mail: Bobny57@aol.com

To Cecelia Batthany Dunne:
I went to CTK HS with your brother Everett and my brother, Mike went to Archbishop Molloy with your brother, Mike. I also graduated from OLPH with Eleanor Dunne. Could she be your sister-in-law?
I would love to contact your brother so any help you can provide me would be appreciated. What is your email address? Bob Woods
Added: January 14, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Paul La Vecchia
From: Delray Beach, Florida
E-mail: dodgerman25@yahoo.com

To: Mike Lovaglio:
Yes I certainly remember you and all the guys in the stores Dept. Are you still in the Dept? Wish you and family the best for the coming new year, and who knows I might just walk in there some day and shock you. Take care. Paul.
Added: January 14, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Joseph G. McBride
From: Virginia
E-mail: jgmcbride@verizon.net

Left a short note in December 2008.
Got an old classmate to write me. Figured I'd write again, a longer note, maybe get a few more people from Hold Child Jesus, Class of 1969 to write. Been down in the Virginia area since 1979. Ready to retire in about 2 years from federal government (will have 32 years). Going to Johns Hopkins and getting my Masters.
Well that's all for now!!!
Added: January 14, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Jonn Mulry
From: Lynbrook, NY
E-mail: JonnNightwatcher@hotmail.com

am I glad to see the resurrection of the guest book.
the new format is great! I am sure that our beloved Nancy (eternal memory) is looking from above and smiling in approval.
Added: January 14, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Anthony Palmisano
From: Lynbrook, NY
E-mail:

Would like to hear from anyone from Holy Child Jesus class of 1973.
Also, who remembers the "new building" being added on to Holy Child back in the late '60's? And the faculty who taught us.
Sad to have learned that many of our teachers have passed on over the last few years. To name a few, Miss Place, Miss Sheriden, Sister Regina Margaret, Sister Elizabeth Patricia and Sister Loretta. May they all rest in peace.
Added: January 12, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Mary Hamel Theall
From: New Bedford, Ma
E-mail: ma5hm@aol.com

I remember Hillmart's next to Doc's Pharmacy.
My mother would walk my brother there in the carriage and the Hillmart's and others would sit and talk about the war 1942-43. Doc's pharmacy would take back med's that you didn't need and if you needed something you just had to call, try that today with CVS, or Brooks. Between them was a food store can't remember the name but I think the owner was my Mothers paper boy before he started the store and he delivered too.
Can't remember the last time I thought about Hillmart's etc. Such nice thoughts
Added: January 12, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Janice Cawley Daniel
From: Spring Hill, Florida
E-mail: jan39@tampabay.rr.com

Hi! Does anyone remember Dr Barber and his family?
They lived on 85th Ave right off of Lefferts Blvd. I have been trying to find Mary Barber. I grew up across the street from them. I practically lived in their house.
Dr & Mrs Barber were very special people who always opened their home to the kids of the neighborhood. Small skating rink in backyard to volleyball, basketball, all kinds of physical activities for us to do. I would like to thank them for the great childhood memories. There was Hugh, Mary, Robert, Alice and Edward Barber. I know Hugh and Mary attended RHHS not sure about the others.
Anyone know of them and their where abouts? I know Dr Barber passed on and they moved a long time ago from that home. Thanks, Janice Cawley
Added: January 11, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Rosemarie Nucci
From: Florida
E-mail:

hey teresa,
i remember you from 123 street and going to the dances to see six horse hitch. wow what awalk down memory lane. :0)
Added: January 10, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Nancy Favilla
From: Sterling, Pa.
E-mail: deed5@echoes.net

A Happy New Year to all.
I just saw the post from Richie "Lavag", wow, that names takes me back. Richie, I hope all is well with you. Believe it or not, my mom still lives in the house on 109st. My brothers are all doing well and still live in the area. Thomas in Queens, James in Howard Beach, and the rest on Long Island. Most of them are married and even have children. My dad pasted almost 10 years ago. I have been in Pa. since 1987. I have 4 children. I lost one of my children to cancer in 2007.
I miss the old town. Although just last month I realized just how much has changed. Remember when we were young and on snow days the boys would go around the streets shoveling for the older folks? Well, no more. Just before the holidays, my mother, who is closing in on 80 mind you, was given a summons because her walk was not cleared! 50 years in that house, and she gets reported for not shoveling the walk. What goes on with that? What kind of neighbors don't take the extra 2 minutes to clean the walk?
I know, your all thinking what about her sons? I thought the same thing. But not really the point. I remenber that my dad would have a fit if my brothers didn't shovel Margarets next door to us or if Mr. Craig was out side with a shovel, even the Seiferts next to the school. Times sure have changed. If anyone in town knows a kid who might need a few extra bucks, email me.
It was wonderful to see your name on the board, Ritchie. I will have to tell my brothers to check in and drop a few lines. All the best to you and your family. Even Mike! -Nancy
Added: January 10, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
John Saladino
From: Wantagh, NY
E-mail: jssdino@optonline.net

Hi Mike Lovaglio, I remember Hillmart.
It was like a general store where you could but almost anything. It was a good place to buy a stickball bat or a Pensy Pinky. I remember buying a hockey stick there. The owner, sold me on the line that it made from "Canadian" wood. It lasted the rest of the day.
Added: January 9, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Janet Clark-Duff
From: Sydney, Australia
E-mail: jclarkduff@hotmail.com

Hi, There is an entry in your guest book from Meredith Hoell DeLorenzo - Of Bellmore, USA on Saturday, 6 December 2003, that mentions a "Miss Clark-Duff" as a teacher at P.S.90 around 1958-1966.
If anyone has any information about Miss Clark-Duff, I would be really happy to hear from you via my email address. I believe that this Miss Clark-Duff is the step-daughter of my grandfather's brother, the Rev Robert Clark-Duff, originally from Australia.
There are now only six Clark-Duffs left in Australia and Robert would be long gone. I am assuming that "Miss" Clark-Duff is also deceased, but I would be very grateful for any information - eg: her christian names, what she taught, etc. Many thanks, Janet Clark-Duff.
Added: January 9, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Dr John Rodgers
From: Terra Vista, FL
E-mail: drjohnrodgers@yahoo.com

The Jerome Theater was located on the SW corner of 114th St and Jerome (101) Avenue.
By the middle 1950's the movie had closed, and the building became an aluminum window factory.
Added: January 8, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Mike Lovaglio
From: East Northport, NY
E-mail: mlovag@yahoo.com

Does anyone remember a little store called Hillmart?
It was on Jamaica Ave, two doors off the corner of 117th St. I went there all the time as a kid and bought little toys that would cost less than a dollar!
Added: January 8, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Teresa Smith Pedone
From: PA (weekends) / NYC (weekdays)
E-mail: apedone@ptd.net
S.B.J.L. 1968 Graduates
We are changing the Reunion to June 2009 to get more of our past friends to join us. Please continue your search of our friends and email me with any connections you have made. We already have quite a few friends ready to meet, greet and share memories!
Thanks to this website for helping us!
Added: January 8, 2009
Submitted by Comments:
April Koster
From: 113th Street
E-mail: aprildale18@yahoo.com

Hello Dan Smith.
I have a similar memories of those days. Such as "The Duquenes" practicing their harmony on 114th & 101 (Jerome). Someone (?) gave me a D. tape which I played a lot.
I also remember John's Candy Store. John would sometimes kick us out, complaining that the juke box was "getting rusty". We'd wait outside (sometimes in the freezing cold) until the storm subsided - for at least 20 minutes. When the coast was clear we all went back in to "grease" the juke box and order cokes and potato chips. Then John would be busy again and we were back in his good graces - until the next lapse.
Also loved those hot bagels from the bagel factory for just 7 cents each, but I never knew a Jerome movie. Can't believe this all happened over 40 years ago.
Hope you and everyone has a great New Year.
Added: January 6, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Rich Culotta
From: Baldwin, NY
E-mail: richculotta64@optonline.net

Raised in Richmond Hill (1964-1987), Attended PS55, JHS 226, and Hillcrest High School.
Too young to remember Paul's Candy Store but as far as I was concerned it was Rocky's. The youngest of 5, I've seen the most changes. I grew up with multiplexes but still remember going to The Casino and Lefferts Movie Theatres.
I always preferred a burger at Winther's or Karp's to McDonald's. Summer softball at 55 with Mr Keifer. Going to 88th St. Park to watch Carlo's Bar beat Mickey's in 1974 and remembering how happy I was to play in that same league 10 years later.
Played baseball at Smokey Park. Was told it was given that name because of the smoke coming across Atlantic Avenue from the Long Island Railroad. I had another theory. (Wink)
A person could find anything they needed on Liberty Avenue. School supplies at Uncle Jack's. The best pizza in the world from Carlo's & Tommy's, Shoes at Buster Brown's and 2 5&10 cent stores (Kresgee's & Woolworth's). I remember having fun hanging with the guys at Club Diner, or taking my girlfriend to places like Rocco's, Mohawk Resturant, and of course St. John's Resturant. (Where I proposed to my wife over breakfast).
I still return to Richmond Hill often and take notice of all that has changed. The (PS55) School Yard is only a quarter of its size since they expanded the school. I suppose that's just as well since Belman's Bakery is now a used car lot and there is no more smell of fresh baked bread to inhale as you are up at bat.
Ironically enough Karp's is now a McDonald's and chances of going to Jahn's Ice Cream Parlor went right down the "Kitchen Sink" about 2 years ago.
Most of the faces have changed, but that's alright. It's just another neighborhood full of kids making their own memories just like we did.
Added: January 6, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Mike Lovaglio
From: East Northport, NY
E-mail: mlovag@yahoo.com

Hey Paul LaVecchia! Did you work for the L.I.R.R.?
It has to be you, because judging by you email address, there can't be two Paul LaVecchia's that are dodger fans. I had the locker next to you in the Stores dept. Smitty and Jed are still in there but Todd is gone. So now you got Torre and Mattingly.
I guess you guys needed a couple of Yankees to show you how to win. LOL Happy New Year Buddy!
Added: January 5, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Mike Lovaglio
From: East Northport, NY
E-mail: mlovag@yahoo.com

Hey John Saladino!
Good to hear from you. LaMancha was my first play with the Teen Drama Club. I was a Muleteer and one of Don Quoties horses (ha-ha). I acually fell off the stage during one of the performances, because I couldn't see out of the costume head!
Do you have a brother named Joe? If so, he was the leader of a religous instruction group I was part of after graduating from Holy Child. Have a Happy New Year!
Added: January 5, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Richard Newell
From: Galloway, New Jersey
E-mail: coachrich00@yahoo.com

Happy New Year to everyone.
We are getting ready to put together the friends reunion to be held on June 13th, 2009. Please start sending me your e-mail address so I can send out more information to everyone. We hope to have a good turn out of old friends from the Hill. Please also respond if you are unable to attend. I will post this message one more time in Feb.
Attention Richmond Hill Friends Reunion (1960-1968) Holy Child - Richmond Hill Annex and High School
Do you remember the days of School Dances, House Parties, and Stick Ball, Hanging out in the School Yards or Forrest Park? Maybe you remember Cordes Ice Cream Parlor, Steve's Pizzeria, RKO Keiths Movie Theater, Glenn's Bar or Club 111 Bowling Alley. Have you ever wondered of what happened to old friends from the neighborhood? Well now is your chance, Julie Kreppein-Wissell, Rich Newell, and Richie Kreppein are putting together a friends reunion for Saturday June 13, 2009 to be held at the American Legion Post #948 located in Bellmore, Long Island. The cost will be $75.00 per couple or $40.00 per individual. (Non-Refundable) The price includes a Buffett, Beer, Wine, and Soda.
It has been over 40 years since our childhood days, so what do you say lets get together and catch up on lost years. We are looking for names, address, phone numbers, and e-mail address of old friends. Please RSVP to any of the below address if you have any information and would be interested in attending by Feb 2009.
We are also looking into blocking off hotel rooms for those who will need a place to stay. Julia Kreppein-Wissell - julia1950@msn.com; Rich Newell - coachrich00@yahoo.com; Richie Kreppein - hacksquad@aol.com
Added: January 5, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Teresa Tomblin (McGinnis / O'Brien family)
From: TX
E-mail: AKAAV8fox@aol.com

I have not commented on this site for at least a year, when I first found it, I was on Line looking up how to order a Kinish. HA...
My Family lived at 93-29 123rd St. It was my grandmothers house. Ellen O'Brien... and her sister and her family Lived downstairs (The Misewinkels). Then in the 70's we lived there with my Gma. My Mother was born in that house...
anywayyyyyyy what brings me here tonight it's a wonderful find... I found my Mothers Autograph book from 1942 from SBJL... some made me laugh so hard and others made me cry... but I thought I would list some names... Sister M Antonina, Sister M Melissa, Sister Mary Loretta. names in book Tillie Knuth, Francis Doherty, Maralyn Huffman, John Cromwell, Eddie Harrison.
Just name a few... also My Mother told me years ago... She knew Jack Cassidy and he was always a slick dresser (hehe) and they all called him Chick... or Chickie Cassidy... She also told me she had a Crush on Jimmy Breslin. Thats when we sat on the stoop and wait for Tony the ice cream man to come...
In My days in RH... I went to 210 and RHHS... I went to SBJL (Father Wentzel)... friends with Margaret Ringhoff, Rosemarie Nucci, Dorothy Ford, Sandra Krause... we went to dances... (Six Horse Hitch) was The Band... Ha... Ok... Long winded...
I found this book and it made my day... Best wishes for a great New Year! *Teresa*
Added: January 3, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Dennis Doyle
From: Richmond Hill, NY
E-mail: webmaster@richmondhillhistory.org

To Karen Madden:
I believe the name of the deli was "Schlosher's" (sp?). The deli was located near the corner of 115th Street on Jamaica Avenue and was between the Chase Manhattan Bank and Lipshultz (sp?) Stationery Store.
This deli had an eating area in the back.
Added: January 3, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Karen Madden
From: Manhattan
E-mail: karenmddn1@aol.com

Another comment about the old Richmnd Hill.
During a family Christmas party this year someone mentioned the German deli on Jamaica Avenue around 112th Street (and it's not the Manor Deli which is till further along Jamaica Avenue). You could sit in the back and have your lunch. Does anyone remember the name?
We thought it began with an "S". My dad remembers having lunch and after school snacks there when he was at Richmond Hill High. I vaguely remember stopping there with him to buy cold cuts and potato salad. Anyone remember??? KM
Added: January 2, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Karen Madden
From: Manhattan
E-mail: karenmddn1@aol.com

Just recently saw an article on the plans to make P.S. 66 an historic site when I noticed the reference to the "late" Nancy Cataldi. I somehow missed the news of her passing and was distressed to see the info on this site.
I met Nancy and Carl Ballenas at a book signing a few years back for their delightful book on Our Town. She was lovely and we had a wonderful chat about the great Victorian houses and how I had hoped they would extend their coverage to more of the "South" Richmond Hill sites that so many of you recall (Karp's, the Lefferts Theater, the signs at the Lefferts station that said "to the City" etc.)
My parents still live on 115th Street and yes, the town has changed. But my mom, whose family (Kathleen & James Tierney) moved to Richmond Hill in 1923 to 125th Street for "the clean air", says the street vendors and the displays of merchandise out on the front of the stores is reminiscent of the German and Jewish shopkeepers of the 20's and 30's with their stores on Liberty Avenue. So the more things change, etc.
My Mom and Dad were married at St. Teresa of Avila and had their wedding reception at the Triangle Hofbrau and thoroughly enjoyed Nancy and Carl's inclusion of the photos of that special place.
Nancy will be greatly missed and my condolences to her family and the Richmond Hill Historical Society team. Please keep up your efforts. I know it is daunting as I see the changes every time I visit Mom & Dad.
All the best to the Society and the rest of us "Hillies". KM
Added: January 2, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
mary johnson
From: long branch new jersey
E-mail: mjohnson@pershing.com

Happy New Year Richmond Hill Historical Society! MEJ
Added: January 2, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Carol Farulla Zollo Mendez
From: Massapequa
E-mail: buca83@yahoo.com

Find this site very interesting and would love to go to the 2011 reunion.
Added: January 1, 2009


Submitted by Comments:
Teresa Smith Pedone
From: PA/NYC and 114th in Richmond Hill
E-mail: apedone@ptd.net
Attention all SBJL graduates from 1968.
We are currently getting together a Reunion for Feb or March in Queens. Please email me so we can add you to our list! It will be a trip down memory lane.
Thanks and Happy New Year to all RH residents past and present!!!!!
Added: January 1, 2009
Submitted by Comments:
Dennis Doyle
From: Richmond Hill, NY
E-mail: webmaster@richmondhillhistory.org
Happy New Year!
Best Wishes to all our Members, Friends, and Visitors!
Added: January 1, 2009


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