doris, doris. nice.

Grew up in bensonhurst in 50s on w.8th st near
marboro theatre. I loved living their so much I
bought a house near where I used to live just have a place to go back to when I want to remember the good times. I started putting a
script together so one day soon I can make a movie and tell the world how special bensonhurst
is.

My Brooklyn- I grew up in Bensonhurst lived on West 11th & Ave O, 1962-1992 since then I moved to the country - Staten Island, miss those days. I was 7 years old when we move from Manhattan to Brooklyn, I remember the first day we moved in July 1962, I got in to a fist fight with two boys Eric and Ray who simply asked me �What are you doing here� who soon after became my best friends. We lived in Seth Low Park, playing Hand Ball, Softball and Basketball, stick ball in the school yard, at night under the lights playing Spud the loser would get asses up, Roller Hockey and touch football in the winter, the verity of things to do was endless. We made our own fun, nobody really had any money we all came from middle income families. If you had a family car you were up one on the others. Survival was not how well you could fight or how fast you could run it was who you knew, when you wondered off your turf and was approached by neighborhood gangs didn�t know people they knew, you got your ass handed to you. Sometimes that�s how the gang wars started, but mostly over girls.

The Gangs as I Remember:
The Ave �O� Boys
Seth Low Park Boys
The Falcons- 20th Ave.
The Kings Highway Boys
Louisiana Lanes -86th St.
Marboro Projects; (Everyone knew crazy Otto.)
Bath Beach Boys
Coney Island Boys
The Guys from Cropsey Park

There was nothing like Brooklyn in those days, I had over 150 friends within a 20 block radius, mostly Italians and Jews and a few Irish, every block had it�s own softball team 72nd street was playing West 11th in the tar field and 76th st. was playing 71stst. in the school yard. On rainy days it was a quick train ride to Coney Island, really hot days we�d take the F train to Ditmis ave and catch the 9th ave shuttle to Sunset Park pool or just open a Johnny Pump and cover up the sewer opening to keep the water from draining and flood the corner which made a pool or just hangout at IS 96 (Summer School is what we called it) with Mr. Chuck and Hairy Ronnie and play waffle ball or dodge ball. After that get lunch at John and Pete�s green house in the park and eat hot bagel pretzels with mustard and drink sunny boys.

My parents still live there and I visit them as much as I can taking the all the side streets where I used to play and hangout in stead of the more direct route remembering how simple life was and the dozens of friends I�ll probably never see again.

It�s hard to close an epistle like this one knowing there�s so much more about those days to mention, but having them as memories and web sites like this one help us to preserve and remember how we lived, the values we retained and the life lessons we earned.

Sounds like white trash paradise.

How old are you? who did you know from cropsey park? You might be able to get in touch with some folks... Truth.

I grew up and still live in Bensonhurst. My time was the 80s. I remember there used to be people hanging out on every corner. No cell phones people would call the pay phones on the corner to see who was hanging out. I knew alot of people on the west side. Some of the places, Kings hwy & west 10th st, Highlawn & stillwell, Ave. U & west 11th, west 5th streets, Ave S & west 12, 86th st & 20th ave parking lot, Cropsey Park just to name a few. I remember crusing up and down 86th st before they banned parking after 10pm. That used to be one of the highlites of Bensonhurst. On Friday & Saturday nights it looked like a car show. People would come from everywhere to cruise there before they went out. Alot of times I ended up staying there because it was better than a club. People cranked up good music guys & girls would hang out then later go to Uncle Bobbys for bagels. Today its like a ghost town. All the corners empty. 86th st dead on the weekends. I am glad I got to experience Bensonhurst as a teen in the 80s.

im 19 yrs old. im livin in bensonhurst in this day and age. the guy above said that its like a ghost town at night now. let me tell u it isnt. on 85 and 20th where i live its poppin. u have other areas also. u its honetly turned into the white ghetto. man how many fights have i been into. how many times ive gotten jumped and done it back. but the thing is i love bensonhurst. u know what the problem is now. gangs dont stay on their territory. now they migrate. i got 23rd ave comin to my corner. and then i got 24 ave. and they go other places. its unbeleivable. im pretty sure in other hoods if u were a gang u stayed where u chilled.i was also surprised about how many gangs there were that guy wrote on top. now its, (these are gangs that lasted for years)
2a(20 ave and 60's)
bath ave boys
23rd ave
24 ave
85 st boys (85 and 20th)
bay 46
bay 50
ave s
ave u boys
a.b.i(albanian boys inc.,seth low park)
a.b.b(albanian bad boys)
cropsey park
kings highway boys
bay pkwy boys

and then u have all these other gangs by the west sides that i dont know are cuz i dont go there.i dont know anyone there.

but like i said bensonhurst has become the white ghetto. its changed alot.

I remember the days when every guy wore a velour V-neck shirt to exhibit the fat rope chain with the Jesus-head charm, and tight Serio Valente jeans with white canvas loafers. The car of choice was the triple white Monte Carlo with some "hot' Blaupunkt stereo blasting some disco or some mix tape made by some local DJ. Wasn't everybody a wannabee DJ with the 2 turntables and a Gemini mixer. You had to go to the Funhouse at least once, just to buy the T-shirt; why the hell did we leave Brooklyn to go hang-out at this lousy overpriced disco.
I remember the cliques loitering on the street corners drinking an 8 pack of nips, hijacking a pay phone to beep each other. Going to bay 8 in Brighton Beach, I can't remember, and bringing a cooler and a fat JVC ghetto blaster. There was about a half-dozen or so movie houses. They had lines for the evening shows, and most of the time were sold out. Swapping ticket stubs in the bathroom to see other movies for free, or just straight up sneak in thru the fire exit. I don't think there is movie house running right now, or a video store, wasn't there one of those on every corner--what was behind that dark curtain?
As I drive through B'hurst, I can't find one street that has the 100 yds painted in the street to similate a football field. Every block used to have this. It was a rite of Spring to repaint the lines. Wow,have times changed!

whoever the hell thinks bensonhurst is poppin now is sadly mistaken and is way too old to be talkin bout avenue crews. grow up

I agree with Jerry. Bensonhurst is over. It started chaging drastically in the early 90s. Today you walk down 86th street nobody speakes english. I used to know everybody on my block. Now Chinese people buught houses on both sides of me and I hardly know anyone. Not that the Chinese are bad people, they keep to themselves. But the are everywhere, and they don't even speak english. Time to move to Staten Island.

i was born and raised in Bensonhurst, Bay Parkway girl and proud of it..still best friends with all the neighborhood girls, we're going on a 30 yr. reunion cruise in 2 weeks. would love to chat to someone..We are from the 70's,80's and early 90's we knew everyone !!!!! write back someone..i was there like 2 months ago to visit..man it has changed big time

Dorinne I am more from the 80's. The 90's things started to change for the worst. Then everyone started to move to Staten Island. Anyway, I used to hang out in the 20th ave parking lot on 86th st. Did you know anyone from there. I also knew a few guys that hung out on Bay Pkwy & 86th in front on the news stand, and people from Cropsey park.

Dorinne I am more from the 80's. The 90's things started to change for the worst. Then everyone started to move to Staten Island. Anyway, I used to hang out in the 20th ave parking lot on 86th st. Did you know anyone from there. I also knew a few guys that hung out on Bay Pkwy & 86th in front on the news stand, and people from Cropsey park.

I lived on Ave U in Bklyn, and played hockey for about 25 YEARS

Bensonhurst is not what it was even ten years ago,,,
I am lucky i see a few people i grew up with every so often,,, Seems like the chinese and russians have the neighborhood locked down

I like to here from anyone who I player with in the 60's an 70's, Hockey, I Coach High School Hockey on Long Island for past 21 years. Ambrose Michelino

Mac I hear ya. I live in Bensonhurst my whole life. I'm 39 years old. I dont understand why everyone just picked up and let it go. Staten Island is nice, but the commute no way. Its history. Its sad to say.

Hi everybody! I lived in Bensonhurst througout the 80's and 90's and then moved to Florida in 1997(which is where I am now) I will always hold B'hurst close to my heart. I loved growing up there. It was the best place to be. I lived on 76th St. and 20th Ave. I used hang out all over the place. I was always in P.S. 186 school yard playing handball and running around with the neighborhood kids. I used to go to Seth Low park too. I used to go shopping on 18th ave or on 86th st and remember Ceasars Bay ( i loved it there) It was always packed with people....and Mike's Pizza on 20th ave..always the best! eat a slice and have an italian ice afterwards.(rainbow was my favorite)And how could I forget the 18th and 20th Ave Feasts. That was the highlight of the summer! I miss knowing everyone in my neighborhood. Growing up with the same people, going to the same schools...it was like one big family! Now that I live in FL I can appreciate these simple things that made my childhood so great! I visit N.Y 3 to 4 times a year because my family is still there. But everyone i know moved out of Brooklyn. They are all in Staten Island and Jersey. Brooklyn did change! It's terrible there. The feeling just isn't there anymore. But I will forever keep the memories and wish that one day when I have kids ....they will grow up in such a great place!!!

i grew up in the late 60,70,8o i left in 93.i used to live on cropsey and 21 ave. i hung out at the cropsey park with all the neighborhood gang.i also remember the hippies they were lots of fun to hang with.i remember getting all dolled up and going to 86 street with my girlfriend helen,the cars would beep at us like mad.then you could walk around and be pretty safe,today you could easily get raped or killed. i have been married for 24 years with 8 kids,boy did things change.i will always love brooklyn the sights smells and memories that will stay with me a lifetime.nobody makes pizza like lennys or frozen bananas and caramel apples like coney island or the real nathans hot dogs,i have a tear in my eye.ps 200 ill remember you forever.

I left Brooklyn like everyone else. I'm now 33 years old. I live in AZ. When we move out to FL, CA or AZ...we all go for a better life. We all find it. Less crime, rain, pollution, traffic and cost of living. The problem is that we never accounted for the loss of the things we loved. The biggest problem is that we cannot go back. Someone from Dearborn, Michigan can leave his hometown - return 5 years later and not much has changed. This is not true for New Yorkers...especially people from Brooklyn/Bensonhurst. The place is a nightmare now. I grew up in the typical Italian family. I miss the neighborhood, the holidays and all those people I grew up with. I hung out on 20th Ave., went to the clubs in Bay Ridge, played in Marine Park, loved Spumoni Gardens - you know the deal. Now...I escaped all the things I thought I hated, but miss them everyday. I know I can't go back because there's nothing left. Russians and Chinese on my old streets. No one hanging out on the corners...just the memories of what it was. Who would want to live there now? It's garbage. Ex-New Yorkers are like refugees with no home to return to. I go back to visit a lot - all it does it make me realize how everything is over even though I feel nostalgic.

I have to say i'am the young guy here lol 27 to be exact. I love reading all your stories it was pretty damn amazing. If we all wrote a movie script people from other cities and states would be in complete shock lol of what it was like in that small little italian neighborhood. So many things went on it' ashame that it all changed i'am on SI now with all these little punk kids. I remember growing up in the neighborhood you looked at someone the wrong way you got your ass handed to you by someone older and you never did it again. Now these little punks just stare and stare. I have alot of great memories to share with you all i just wanted to say thanks for the memeories i really didn't have from the 70's and early 80's i was to young but have great memories of the late 80's and early 90's to bad it's all gone. The thing is there is no one leading the way to try and take the neighborhood back it all slipped away pretty sad.

I was raised between 71st and 72nd on Ft. Hamilton Parkway. Parents owned a German Delicatessen. Moved to Florida in 1969. I'm the dinasaur in this room. We had 1 block druggie back then. My parents got us out of town and moved to Sarasota. Oh well. Have fun

you people are outta ur minds, im 20 and live on west 10th at just about the borderline of gravesend and bensonhurst. theres over 100,000 italians living btwn the 2 neighborhoods and close to that number when u combine bath beach, marine park and overwhelmingly italian in dyker heights and parts of bay ridge. u talk aboud how things have changed well a new group has started among italian youths in brooklyn and staten island known as I.B.I.A ( italians back in action). we're a young generation of ginnys filled with pride and gettin ready to settle our many families throughout the neighborhood. in the last few months i've seen chinese businesses go out of business including the large T&H on 86th st and chinese families moving. italians are here to stay, new deli's and cafes are opening up along avenue t and avenue u as well as 18th ave and 20th ave, including Cousin Vinnys on Ave T, Caffe Azzurri on Ave T, Massimo's Pizzeria on 18th Ave and thats just in the last couple of months. there are suprisinly few chinks outside of 86th st, come back and discover for yourself that the blocks even that surround 86th st are filled with paesans. your generation wanted nothin more then to leave, our generation wants to stay and make these neighborhoods even stronger.

I grew up in the Marlboro projects and was in the Louisiana boys.I lived on bay 50th for a long time before moving out of state.My sister still lives on 17th and 86

hi this is tommy i lived in bensonhurst 29 years now i live upstate not the same as home and never will be. me i grew up around 86st all my life to bayparkway and 20th ave . i went back a year ago and its changes every time. always new stores and the old ones gone.

i got to say this everyone i know is either dead or in jail. i was a bayparkway boy. its not the same. we lost what was once called the best place to grow up for our kind of memorries and people.

I moved to 77th st.&20th ave in 1943.Went to 186,Seth Low,& Lafayette.(june 1949).Hung out at Famous& Dubrows.I remmber The Blue Coal C0.at the end of Bay Parkway, Korvet used to be.Hung Out at Bay 7 & later Bay 2 in the summer.The 1950"s & 60's were a great tme to be a teenager.We had a basement club room on West 6th st. & highlawn Ave.I'm retired & live with my wife,in Port saint Lucie, Fla. Drop me an E-mail if you care to.

my god some of you people it's so sad to read, are so racist. i've lived in brooklyn my whole life near bensonhurst, I saw what happened. lots of Italians simply got old and moved out. Lots of Italians had their own businesses, kept to themselves, and were in unfamilar position to work/live/do business with/beside people from other ethnic backgrounds. There was no attempt to put the effort to adopt. The choice was made just to leave.

Further, they didnt have new italian immigrants to help them buy their houses so 'non italians' did... what else can be said? would it have been preferred if the people that moved in had driven the property values down, and increased the crime? These things did not happen.

The real question is why haven't phone calls been made to Italy to send more of thier immigrants? They are welcome to come aren't they?

But it's just like Japan... life in Japan as the world's 2nd largest economy... is fine. They live in a first world metropolis. They only come to USA to shop and check out American culture. They have the powerful buying power of the YEN. As much, I doubt there are very many poor, slum Italians dying to run from Italy the past 20yrs to make a new home in USA as was the influx 100yrs ago.

For the Chinese, your talking about a land mass ruled by Communism for 50yrs, some people from there do seek a better life. You can't own your own land in China for decades when Communism swept. On the otherhand some cities within China have boomed for a decade. The Chinese that grew up in those cities mock other CHinese, and have no need to seek a new life in USA.

Now the Chinese came here 200 yrs ago and worked hard on the railroads for this country's backbone but heh, our USA government made it a Federal law to BAN Chinese from immigrating here. Imagine banning Italians?

It's appauling how some people forget they were from immigrant families as well... it's what New York city is about, we are a hub/magnet for the next wave.

America was built and partially only survives even now, on a wave of some kind of immigrant group every couple of decades because these immigrants take the bottom level jobs as 'we' the business owners have them as our workers.

You look at all the 'whites' from places like Iowa, Michigan, that have come into Parkslope / Brooklyn Heights... that's just another 'hood getting its cycle just as Bensonhurst got its.

Our lives on earth are so short, wouldn't it be better to try to evolve into a higher level of civility within this land America, try each other's foods and live at peace.

ABC, What the hell are you talking about? Your the 1 thats racist. We are just people who either live or lived in Bensonhurst talking about old times. Why does race have to come into this?

PEOPLE LIKE ABC IS WHAT TRUN OUR HOME INTO WHAT IT IS TO DAY!WE TALK ABOUT US AND GROWING UP SOME WHERE YOU CAN BE PROUD OF AND GOOD MEMORIES AND PEOPLE HATE ON STRONG ITALIAN GUYS CAUSE WE STOOD TOGETHER ALWAYS STRONG.YA THERERS ALOT OF BAD APPLES,RATS DRUG USERS ECT... BUT THE HURST WAS A PLACE GRANDMA COULD WALK WITH OUT GETTING HER BAG ROBED BY CRACKS HEADS... NOT YEARS AGO ... BUT TODAY THEY LET ANYONE MOVE IN AND WALK AROUND.. I REMEMBER WHEN THE RATS NEVER CAME OUT OF MARBO PROJECTS.....BUT EVERYONE MOVED AWAY,OR IN JAIL, OR DEAD!!! THE REAL PEOPLE ARE JUST GONE. I SIT UP AT NIGHT AND THINK OF THE PAST IM GLAD IM STILL ALIVE TO TALK TO OLD FRIENDS ABOUT THE GOOD TIMES WE HAD. NOW AND THEN I MEET A FEW FACES I KNOW FROM THE HURST AND THEY SAY THE SAME THING ,ITS NOT THE SAME ANY MORE TOMMY GO ON AND SEE MORE THATS OUT THERE BUDDY.YOU CANT BRING EVERYTHING BACK JUST BE GLAD YOU WAS THERE WHEN ALL THE GOOD STUFF HAPPENED....

i stubbled on this website as I hunt for property. My family is originally from the Bronx. We moved to Florida 16 yars ago to raise my kids...Florida is a great place in the winter but it has no tradition. My children are on their way to college in the next 3 years and my husband and I are ready to come home. We were thinking of Brooklyn something new to explore. No more family lives their, they are still in the Bronx, Staten Island and Jersey. Can anyone reccomend a area that is mostly Italian. I want to get a slice of pizza or a italian ice without any trouble. Any advice would help...Thanks

I LIVED ON AVE U AND WEST 7TH STREET. BOY DO I MISS IT.....I LOVED SPUMONI GARDENS AND THE MARLBORO PROJECTS......WENT TO PS 95, BOODY JH AND LAFAYETTE......MOST OF MY FAMILY HAS PASSED AND MY HEART STILL ACHES FOR BROOKLYN....FAE MART, KORVETTES, NELLY BLY, THE N TRAIN, THE HILL, KINGS HIGHWAY, I COULD GO ON AND ON...DROP ME A LINE IF YOU REMEMBER ANY OF THIS... I WOULD LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU....I NOW LIVE ON LONG ISLAND.........

CAMILLE yes I remember all of that. I was kind of young when Korvettes was around though. I still live in Bensonhurst its defiantly not the same. You hear everyone on this board talking about how it changed and its really sad. The neighborhood is still a nice place to live, and if you go down some of the side streets there are still a lot of Italians. I used to hang out on Kings hwy & W10th street in the early 80's. Thats one thing you dont see anymore is people hanging out. Years ago there were people hanging out everywhere. Now at night it looks like a ghost town. 86th street is dead. Anyway, its always good to haer from someone that still remembers the good days.

Hi everyone, I used to live in bensonhurst 71st new utrecht ave lived there in the 80's and 90's my sister and our friends were the satellite park girls. miss those days. live in florida now :(

well i live up in albany now ,but lived in bensonhurst for 29 years bayparkway 86st like i said before its not the same as when i lived down there. now i moved away to see if theres more out there , but it will never be the same as the hurst.people up here get a kick out of the way i talk and act,and so do i of them. i"ll never change who iam or how i talk im proud of who iam and where im from theres no where like it .its my home and memorries of child hood.my mothers boyfriend had the candle light lounge years ago and in was on 86st bay 32th and the trains where the when it was the b train i miss that sound i miss the fruit stands where as a kid we have fruit fights at night and all the cars would drive bye all nice 86st was the place to be for me now at 33years old i sit back and think of all the good times we once had as kids. me and my boys.me tommy.gunnz.gallagher anton.jesse. joey.lips.pasquince. jose.darren ruben.chris.peter.riptommy snake.and all the guy from O.T.B who whrer older who raise me when i ran on those streets. i miss you all stay safe and all bensonhursrt your not forgotton but always deep in our hearts and mines where ever the family may be anywhere..

Lived in Bensonhurst from 1945 to 1967 - 85th Street bet. 23rd and 24th Aves. Went to P.S. 101 now known as the Verrazano School. Would like to hear from anyone who attended P.S. 101 in the years between 1950 and 1956. Want to write about my experience their and have many wonderful memories but need to fill in a few gaps. I still return to the neighborhood about once a year and exjoy the excitement of the place although nothing ever stays the same. How could anything compare to ones memories. Anyone recall the building the bank on the corner of 86th Street and 23rd Ave. After years of hearing the pile driver bang away the kids rejoiced in the wide smooth sidewalks surrounding the bank - just perfect for roller skating! Yes, I even visite the Spumoni Gardens and import their Sicilian pizza to upstate New York. Don't let the name fool you. I am half Sicilian. Hope to hear from many.

Tommy Gallagher, are you the same Tommy Gallagher that was the leader of the Seth Low Park Boys back around 1967? If so you must be in your late 50�s by now. This Tommy had so many friends they had to hang out in the Tar Field in Seth Low Park because they were about 150 people in this gang. I was about 10 years old at that time. If you are the same Tommy you should know what this means �Seth Low Park Boys DTKN� this was a trade mark written all over the Park and also a promise!

To reflect on the various reasons why most of the next generation of Italians left Hurst , my reason is the cost of buying a house, the homes on Staten Island were half the cost of homes in Hurst, beside the money you would need to upgrade the house and deal with the lack of parking. I�m sure if I really tried I may have been able to get something but it�s all timing.

Camille, did you remember Frankie Vitali or Peter , Joe-Joe, Cosco. from the Hill?

Harvey, I remember before EJ Korrvetts was built, I used to go fishing in the inlet which hit Shore Road.

Anybody remember Jahns on 86th st. ordering the kitchen sink ice cream plate if you could finish it you got it for free!

hey im 28 i was born on 60th and bay parkway then at 13 moved 2 east side ave u aub in the house my mom still lives there the days when i grew up in the hood it was great we used 2 hang in kelly park jungle juice with khb intensitys with the bay rd kids 52 park dont let me get started the good old days where hangin on ocean ave waiting for the girls from st edmonds when we were younger beepers where the shit and women from the tristate area would come down 2 hang in out parks yea im in nj for a while most of the kids we hung with and there where tons we used 2 have like 200 kids out in a 2mile radius are either dead or in jail im out in the real world im a banker with all the nice things that come along with it money houses cars u name it but i would trade it all in for the old days white t jeans cigs a 40 0z and ave u with my old friends...

no this is tommy gallaghers nef bye the way he is on his death bed as we write he had a heart attack a mounth ago. its sad cause i looked up to him like the rest of the old timers who raised me and other street kids.he was the leder of sethlow park boys and all my unclces as well who are dead now .bruce .rich.semendoff.im 33 and moved away cause the was notting left for me there alot is gone all friends dead or in jail. i have lived past so much in the years and so much has changed out there i have seen it all fade away.

Hi how you doing? My name is Richie i'm 100 percent italian. I'm about to move to bensonhurst from ridgewood queens. Ridgewood is a nice neighborhood but alot of spanish is moving in and its becoming bad. Everyone says bensonhurst is a great area to live in. I just want some peoples opinions on the neighborhood.

Bensonhurst is still a great neighborhood. I am moving their from Ridgewood queens and bensonhurst is very nice from what I see. It's not deceiving right?

eh yo man i grew up in brooklyn bensonhurst and alays stayed on bath avenue i grew up knowing the Bath Avenue Boys they were like fam to me i remember playin stick ball football baseball at 200 park shit thtas my home for life i moved 3 yrs ago but visit every year its runned down but who gives a fuck thats my home bath avenue boys 4 life

Hey everyone, Henry Red from 65th and Bay Parkway. Grew up in Bensonhurst in the 70's, always waxing poetic about Brooklyn. Live in Florida now, still come home twice a year for a reunion with the guys I played basketball with at St. A's. Still the best place in my eyes......Henry

This message is for Ambrose, I read your posts and was it was nice to read about my former teammate (in Kelly Park)and hockey buddy. I also have been coaching high school hockey for over 20 years for Mamaroneck High School in Westchester where i also am a dentist

Ricky Minoff

Ambrose, good to hear from you Ricky's brother Marc you can reach me at the Nevele Grande Resort 800/647-6000,ext.183. I will tell Lou Vairo where you are.

I lived on 82nd st between 19 and 20th ave for many years,, I worked at the farm as a lad in his 20s im 53 now great memories ,,, the farm ..any body buy there dungrees there??????

Hey !! I am an Long Island girl who use to hang in Bensohurst, with a giuy Tommy Bedetto (dont know if I spelled his last name rite) He lived on west 10th and avenue U. I met him on the belt parkway in the 70's with my girlfriend debbie, we were driving my 72 red camero at the time, Tommy and this guy Bob were also driving a blue chevelle I think it was. Debbie and I pulled over our car and got in the car with these guys, we went to a hamburger place, well the rest is history. But if anyone knows Tommy get in touch with me at Linc200@aol.com I would love to get in touch with him Thanks Anne

louisiana boys 1970s. me,billy bright,franky gangi,russo,jesse,sebby,billy hestra,jay green,franky nigreli,carlos,teddy schwartz, nathan schwartz,manny,mikey orfino, bolino and arty bop. j.h.s 281,p.s.200,lafayette high school.tommy snake,bay bar,jerry papa,the rampers,sammy bull,joey marino,old man frank,nicky shades,tommy spero,mike taromina,st.marys church,john franco,joe migliorato,jeffret sarachick,david yegelwell. the best times of my life,bensonhurst 1970s.dude,big bobby,clayton,bay 16th st boys. let me know who else remembers. angels91058@hotmail.com. hey tommy gallegher,i remember the night you beat up tommy snake in the bay bar.billy bang bang gave me the call.

my uncle own valenti;s meat market at stillwell and highlawn ave,i also cut meat there for 3 years.i am 64 now grew up at 31 highlawn ave then west 10th and highlawn.ave anybody rember this?

I also Grew up on Bay Parkway and 67st above the N train ...I went to Seth Low...were i met most of my buddies....we were the 205 boys....20th ave and 68st..we played roller hockey in the school yard until we joined the chiefs roller hockey and played in "p" park...where we won our first stanley cup back in 1987.....boy those were the best times....i graduted from John Dewey HS in Coney Island and went on to play Division 1a baseball at Brooklyn College...there weren't to many if any Noel's around town so if you know me please reply to this post or email me at nedelson@comcast.net.....

Valenti, I do remwmber that meat market on Stillwell & Highlawn. I used to wait in the doorway for the school bus, and my mother used to buy her meat there. I live on Stillwell & Ave. S. Now there is a dance school there.

abc,
so glad that there ARE people like you around...
i'm 38 yrs old, lived in Astoria for the past 10 yrs, moving to Bensonhurst next month. with husband and 6-yr old daughter. according to everything i've read here, bensonhurst sounds like a good neighborhood to live in and raise children. best wishes to all of you who lived there at certain point in your lives...

I grew up in Bensonhurst & hung out on 20th ave & 86th street acrooss from the Benson theater.I left Brooklyn a few years ago.86th st is Definately not the same.All Russian.Growing up there was a lot of fun.

Butch, I grew up next to Billy Bright

my cuz billy passed away a little over ten years ago. we miss him. bath beach and bensonhurst will never be the way it used to be.

heyy everyone calls me ESSHA cand im 16 yrs old...yea kinda young to be joinin your conversations..but im from Bensonhurst too and its great..yea my mom says it changed all the time but its truly still a great place...I recently moved to New Jersey and it sucks..yea its incredibly close by but its sooooo different...I used to hang out on
Bay 50th
Bay 46th
Bay 44th
24 ave
Marlboro
Cavallaro school yard
Big Cropsey
all these places are whats up...yea true most streets are dead at night...cause kids like open house moree...but not on the weekends...Im glad i stumbled across this website I really got to speak my heart ...it aint like I can ramble on to anyone here about how much I love B-hurst..so someonee write me back...thanks for listenin...

I grew up in brooklyn on bennson ave and bay 14th street. It was the late seventies and early eighties, great years, rememeber my old elementry school ps 163, Dyker heights. My best friends were michael abbate, pete, jhonny sparaccio, Augusto Zingaro. Remember hang'in out on benson and sixteenth ave, playing punch ball, skully, wiffle ball, football and when we used to get tiered of this we used to go roof climbing, or just play man hunt. Fantastic days, hope someone knows the buddies I mentioned and could come back and chat.
Carmine

hey butch, that rat gangi put away people for life

Cuz , how's Anthony & Bobby doing

Bensonhurst definitely has changed. But who can forget Alba's, the Feast, Morris (the guy who sold you your sneakers), Henry's Fish Market, Doris, DaVinci's, Berta's, Silver Rod, Woolworth's, the Walker Theatre, Cafe Mille Leuci, the Italian Record Store, Merry Toys, summer nights, block parties, stickball, stoop ball, punch ball....damn, I am starting to cry! Glad I had the opportunity to grow up in the greatest place in the world...Bensonhurst, USA!

Tony , Your last name isn't Delmaestro is it?

No, Jerry, its not

well

Hi there,

I'm an italian guy living in Brussels Belgium and I went to Bensonhurst 2 times. One time in 2001 and last summer. In 2001 I went to Gino's at 20th ave but I couldn't find it anymore last summer. Has it disapeared? Also I didn't notice any italian stores anymore at 20th ave...just 1 social club. It's so sad. But then again that's the only thing I saw when i went to Bensonhurst. This summer I'm coming again to NYC... so I will make a stop Bensonhurst 2. Can anyone tell me where to hang out - where there are lots of Italians... Think I'm gonna rent a bike and drive all the way through it.. Lemme know

I visited Bensonhurst with my wife about a month ago. Went to mass at St. A's, then for a piece of pizza and shopping. It was a Sunday so things were quiet. I'm an Arthur Avenue (Belmont/Bronx), sicilian/American. The "Hurst" is interesting to me but kind of scary too. Not that either place is safe nowadays but did not feel welcome on 18th Avenue at all, in fact, almost mixed it up with a pizza maker while ordering pizza! That would not happen in Belmont because the guy would be concerned about who you were or were with! I like the area though, I just wish I had visited in the old days. On the other hand, Belmont had everything you could dream of and I thought Brooklyn was another country!

Does anyone remember a guy named "Cheech" - he lived between 19th & 20th Ave. and hung out with a guy named Otto who used to like to spit alot.

Carmine,

I lived on 17th avenue, between Bath and Benson. P.S. 163 was my elementary school also. When I turned 14 in 1976 my parents were willing to let me hang out with the guys. Joe Lamantia, Pat Carestia, Alfonz and Anthony Gucciardo, Mike Emilio and Joe Cilento. Our softball team was the Babootsna Bombers. Ed and Kathy Conticelli ran the head shop called Babootsna on the corner of Bay 14th and Bath avenue. I remember Son of Sam and the day after he killed Stacey Moskowitz we went to 17th avenue park and saw all the blood.
How about the Spumoni Gardens, and the Shorehaven Luncheonette on Cropsey avenue. Me and my friends helped to rebuild it with Joe Moscola and his son Alfred after it burned and was gutted. I remember St. Francis Cabrini. I remember the Schirripas of Bay 16th street, one of whom made it big on the Sopranos. I could go on and on. If anybody would like to reminisce some more, let me know.

Bob

From Shore Haven in the 70's. Went to school with Billy Bright, Arty Bop and some. Played Football with the crew. Gus Garcia, jay Green, The Piazza brothers, Hung out at the corner store on Cropsey then owned by Speedy. Robert Martello. Wandered accross this site, Damn it brought back some memories.

Anybody out there that lived in Bensonhurst 68th st and 17th ave in the 1930 (maybe 1940s). Anybody know Micky Valentine, Tommy Pep,Victor Dapilido. It was a great place to live. I was there-Tom D, (posting with a little help from my son)

Hey, Tony Del, you sound like someone who may have grew up near me. I have lived in Hurst since 1969 and am in the process of movin to Jersey this summer (for the kids) but everything you mentioned is where I grew up, 60th and 21st,Alba's, the Feast, Morris (the guy who sold you your sneakers), Henry's Fish Market (still there), Doris (still there), DaVinci's(still there), Berta's(still there), Silver Rod(still there), Woolworth's (gone), the Walker Theatre (gone), Cafe Mille Leuci (gone), the Italian Record Store(still there), Merry Toys (gone). Times they r a changin.

hey Bob I also helped Alfred re-build the luncheonette. I grew up on bay 14 and 86th St. I was 20 when u were 14. What's yoru full name? Do u still live in Bensonhurst? Did u live in the apartment building on 17th Ave. We hung out in teh schoolyard of PS 163 we were the bay 16 boys.

I grew up in brooklyn early 80's.I lived on stillwell ave(marlboro houses).Iwent to seth low.Brooklyn was the best place to grow up in my opinion,the best neighborhood in the world.

Ray,

The guys I hung out with pretty much lived on Bay 14th and Bath Avenue. If you are talking about the apartment building on the corner of 17th and Bath, no I did not live there, I lived down the block. I did have a crush on a girl who did live there though. We were in the same grade together and I always thought we would end up together. There was another apartment building on 17th ave. down the block from me across the street from P.S. 163 that my best friend lived in.
Chances are that our paths probably crossed in that schoolyard because my friends and I all lived within a block radius. Do you remember the blackout of '77. We were all hanging out by the fence on the Bay 14th street side when it hit. One by one all the lights started out.
I do remember some of the guys who lived on Bay 16th, but not their names.
What a great time I had helping Alfred and his father rebuild that luncheonette. I actually worked there for awhile after it reopened.
I live in Westchester right now but I have been itching to go visit the old neighborhood lately.
This is getting kind of long. If anybody else wants to reminisce, let me know.

Bob

Hey Bob what was the girls name? I was back in Brooklyn after 22 years away. the buildings were the same the neighborhood looked the same I even saw some old neighbors still there. they mostly complained about the orientals that have taken over the neighborhood.

I grew up in the Marlboro Projects in the 60's. I went to P.S. 212, Joseph B Cavallaro JHS and graduated from Lafayette HS in 1972. Things were very different back then. My mother worked in Ebinger's Bakery on Avenue U. My father was a bus driver, working out of Ulmer Park depot. We used to walk to Coney Island to the beach with my older sisters and brothers. There were tons of people having fun on the beach and there was rarely trouble. Everyone was Irish, Italian, Jewish. My older sisters and brothers had a great many friends. They would come to our house and jam their music. I think the band they had was called the ClefTones. I remember it being loud and good. We lived on the 4th floor and people outside would stop to listen. The Marlboro Projects was a great place to grow up. We had L&B close by. It was the best place for pizza and spumoni and Italian ices. Now, I live on Bay Parkway and 65th Street. Its nice but its all different. Many of the people that I grew up with, have moved to other places. I never just run into people anymore. I feel like an outsider these days. I dont find anyone with a familiar accent. I hardly ever hear our beloved Brooklyn slang anymore. I do get a lot of people trying to speak Russian to me though....

I just want to make a correction to my last entry. The name of the group was not the Cleftones. The name of the group who played at our house was the Tritones. Johnny and the Tritones. Later, they changed it to the Rainbows.

Ray,

Her first name was Phyllis. Her last name started with an S. The last time I was in the old neighborhood it had to be around 1981 or so. Didn't realize just how long ago that was until now.

Bob

Peggy, I know what you mean. I have lived my whole life in Bensonhurst and my friends and I played ball in the St. A's BB Lg and we had hundreds of kids. Enough so that every age group could field 6-8 teams per age. Now my son plays for St. A's and they can barely field 1 team per each age group. They need to have other organizations join the league, just to have enough kids. Most of the families in the nieghborhood are Russian, Asian, Middle eastern, and Hasdic Jews and they don't play baseball. I remember as a kid, if I didn't get to the school yard early enough (P.S.226) I was screwed because there were too many kids there and you couldn't get on a team. Now the school yards are empty. No yard markers on the ground for football, no boxes on the wall for stickball, and no rims on the basketball backboards. It's sad to think about.

You said it Ralph. The school yard used to be loaded with kids. I remember lining up to go into school. The whole place was packed. But remember how orderly it was? When they would blow the whistle, everyone would stop. Now, they are not allowed to have whistles except for sport activities. I live right near St A's now. I am glad they still have the school. I went to St Brendan's school in the 60's and that school has been closed now for a long time. That was a grammer school and a high school.

Bob, the name is not familiar...do u stay in touch with anyone from the old neighborhood? How bout Al Moscola what's the last u heard of him?

I lived on W 3 st and Ave P from 1969 to 1982. This was a time period I consider as the good old days of Brooklyn when children ACTUALLY went outside to play and have a good time enjoying each other's company. We had no cell phones, internet, or anything really fancy in those yeras. Many of the residents were Italian and Jewish and have lived in the same place for over 40 years. The apartment building I lived in had many of the original tenants up until the day I moved out. I would visit there quite frequently but little by little, many of the original people became old and passed on. Eventually, the Russians and Chinese started moving into the area and today feels very foreign to me. I still enjoy L & B Spumoni Gardens though even in today's times. I miss the memories of the really big boom boxes, roller skating in the streets, flipping baseball cards, Jordash and Sergio Valente jeans and so many other memories.

I am doctor doing my residency training, Can some one please answer my question. I want to moveinto an apartment near Bay 50th street (near the subway D), My question is, is it a safe place to stay for a family? My wife and me are in our late twenties and expecting a child. Is it safe to take walks in the evenings etc.. I am basically from India, will that be a problem? we mind our own business but Iam concerned as I saw some racially discriminating remarks here. I really like ths place but want to live in a safe area too. Please some one write back. Thanks a lot.

bob, st. frances cabrini is closing down this year. its heart breaking for me because i went there. all the catholic schools are closing down...finbars might even. cabrini was always small..but there's just no more catholics around.
on another note, you can still find kids hanging around...but they mostly venture into bay ridge now or they hang inside friend's houses.
also, even spumoni gardens has changed. mexicans make the squares and burn it all the time.
reading stories on here, i wish i grew up back in the 70s/80s...i'm growing up now here...its a lot different. i'm 16 and when i walk home from the bustop from school on 86th st...i get hit on by 40yr old mexicans. flaws & all, however, even though my parents want to move really badly, i refuse. i love b-hurst.

Toria are there still gonna be masses at Cabrini? What street do u live on? I wanna know if the Italian boys still hang out on Bath Ave.

Hi All. Thanks for sharing with me about brooklyn...this is camille kelly...please email me with more memories of brooklyn and ave u.......my brother, dennis kelly, used to stay on the Hill, he was five years older than me.....I did graduate from Lafayette in 1967.. I used to hang out in Tonys Pizzeria right next store to REO dry cleaners on Ave u and West 5th st......If anyone wants to chat about bensonhurst, please email me....I would love to hear from you.....thanks, camille

I lived in Bensonhurst from 1956-1974. Went to St. Mary's Mother of Jesus on 23rd Ave from 1962-1970 and went to Lafayette High School 1970-1974. I remember the B train at 86th and Bay Parkway, it took so long to get to Manhattan. The stores I remember Jahn's, Hot Bagels, The Pizza Stop, Spinners, White Castle on Stillwell ave. Roll a Rama, The Farm. At Mayflower we used to catch the bus to Manhattan Beach. We hung out at Seth Low Park were we played paddle ball and basketball on sunday. We also hung out at Crobsy Park. We played Baseball and Football down by Korvettes. We used to sneak into Dyker Park and find golf balls. also we would sneak into the JCH on Bay Parkway and go swimming. It was a fun time growing up in Bensonhurst. There was always something to do. I was also in the Boy Scouts Troup 297 we had our meeting at PS 97 on Stillwell Ave. I lived at Bay Parkway and 81st Street. There was alway a stick ball game going on in the street or a football game. Your friends were just like your family.

Well I'm from Bensonhurst, But back in the day. Were taking 1968 1969. Now that was a time. I was raised on 70th and 18th ave. My family still lives on 70th street and 18th ave. But it's not like it use to be. 90% of the italians have moved on. And in there place Chinses have taken over.No one speak Italian much less english there anymore. Even the good pastry shops have moved. Remember Alba's? And the pork store across the street? Now gone. And so are the good old days.

What a great "find" this website was! AAh, Bensonhurst mid-80s. . . . Cropsey Park, Bath Ave., my boyfriend played stickball every sunday . . . i'd be there smokin weed and drinking (and whatever else ) with the police station right across the street....like it was legal! I was about 16. God was it fun! Some names that come to mind right now as the memories are slowly coming back to me are Billy and Anthony Bright, Blind Bruce, Deaf Pasquale, Paulie Galino, Eric Saldano, Herbie, Adrian, Scarlet, Michele, Frankie Caruso, Mikey, Barry, Joey EF, Willie, Greg, Peanut. . .. . goin to the Esplanade, double-barrel purple. . .oh yeah, and that kid Joey Something who was in the "Yo Little Brother" video (and I think Jungle Fever. . .) anyway. . . yeah, it was great. Fucking love brooklyn. . . aint the same but everytime I leave, I long for it. I just made the big "move" west . . .to Bay Ridge!!!!

Hi LB

I remember those guys, unfortunately some of the guys you named aren't there anymore as you probably know. Went to school with some of them back in the 80's, remember Georgie Adamo? Joey C.
what could you do it's life.

I also lived in Marlboro projects back in the early 60s 70s I went to 212, 281, Lafayette H.S I remember getting a slice of pizza from a pizza shop on Harway& Bay 50th, for 20 cents, can any one tell me the name of that pizza shop. I know it was not the spumoni Garden.

Anyone from old Bay 16 boys?

looking for anyone around 50 years old from 86th St and 17th Ave

I grew up on 20th ave and Shore Pkwy, went to St. Finbars. I moved when I was 15, so I was just a kid, but I remember hanging out at Cropsey park, or up on 86th st. I've been back a few times and it is different. Chinese, russians etc. Funny thing is I didn't want to move in the first place, until the whole Yusef Hawkins marches started. Now I really miss how it was back then.

I don't know where to start...It definitely cuts to the heart hearing all the memories. This is my story. I moved to Bay 22 between Benson and 86th in 1965. PS 200...it was a privelege lot long after moving in having Clayton "after me." I was just one of the guys who went to PS 200 and played stickball, softball and basketball in the schoolyard. I was 13 in 1968, and there was a big grafitti painted on the handball court wall:

BATH BEACH BOYS KILL ALL

And I didn't know anyone who doubted that at that time. From around 1965-66, the 'Big Guys' then were Jimmy Emma, Vinny Mook, Papa Bear, Louie Ox, Louie Bop, Jerry Amore, Freddie Batman, Big Eddie, Matty Spero, Lenny...as my mind goes blank. The guys closer to my age were Ralph Martello (who painted the thing on the wall), Dominic Lips, Tony Eyeballs, Clayton, Joey Savella, Danny Pucciarello, Ricky, Giuiseppi, Georgie P., Franky Tat, Tommy Cow, Joey German...

Then my friends (the guys from the block, Bay 22) started the Louisiana Boys; Vinny (VeeVee), Billy (Red) Santino, Patsy, Tommy Foot---the guys from my block. I didn't want to hit people for no reason, so by 1970 I was growing my hair and heard about the legendary 'crazy hippies from Cropsey Park.' It was ironic I met some at Lafayette in 1971---and in early 1972 I was a regular: Bobby Pease, The Elf, Ray, Big John, Big Mike, Ralph, Tobes, James, Richie Ears, Joe Beno, George, Lucille, Judy, Judy, Liz, Liz, Liz, Michelle, Linda, Roe, Camille, Camille, The Goat, Scotty Ludes, Andy Schwartz, Dennis, The Wildman, Leebo, Timmy and Billy Cusack, Johnny Quinto, Howie the Cosmonaut...and the Ba Ba's( some of which hung out at 86th and 25th ave.---if you were around then you know the rep that place had, and could guess what the 'Ba Bas were into: Jimmy Monk, Fat Nicky, Richie Katz, Mickey Duck...etc...

I hope that doesn't bore everyone, I just thought throwing out a whole bunch of names like that, would stir up some memories. I did all the stuff already mentioned, Brighton Beach Bay 1 and Bay 2, L&B's, Lenny's, Maxie's on 20th and 86th (great Egg-Creams), Hy Tulip next door, the Benson Movie theater, Jahns, Famous Cafeteria...JHS 281, Lafayette...but CROPSEY PARK WAS HOME! We always started out or ended up there---or just hung out forever...Roland Lugo lived in the Park the hole summer of '72---we 'were' a bunch of crazy hippies, best way to put it---but after awhile, we were pretty well known to other areas, people would come from many of the hangouts already mentioned, seeking various natural medicinal plants and man-made chemicals. It was a great, great time---great people, the neighborhood was safe (heck, you didn't screw around in a Mob neighborhood), BEST music ever---it was a historical period, and Cropsey park, and Bensonhurst, definitely put its own little stamp on the greater scheme of things...most of my friends were Italian, Jewish, and Irish.

Been in Florida since 1993. I could Not Believe the changes I saw from '95, untill I went back just before 9/11...where did everyone go? Where did the places go? A bunch of Chinese kids playing soccer in the Park, Russian and Chinese stores ALL over 86th street...I couldn't believe it. That's the end of that, I thought. Until through the magic of the internet, certain terrific people made the effort of making contact in '03 and '04. Many people by this time were scattered all over the country---but there I was in June '04---back in Brooklyn with a bunch of people I grew up with and loved, some of which I hadn't seen in 30 freaking Years! So there was a renewal, and various get togethers have happened since---with more and more people being 'found.'

I have no regrets at all about growing up in an amazing time of change, in a place where not everyone was ready for the change---but it was cool to see some of the heaviest hitters of them all---sitting with us on a Park bench passing the weed around. At least we all have the memories of those days---growing up in Brooklyn was the best, each neighborhood like a small town---ask your fathers, your grandfathers about it, the '40s, '50s---"Stoop Life", on summer nights all the ladies sitting on the stoops or folding chairs; the people on the street, peddlers selling fruit or trucks that sharpened knives, stickball in the narrow streets ( I broke a few windows in my day), everyone friendly, of course there were millions of gangs, but there was never anything like little kids dying in machine gun fire like in the crack wars in the 80s...

Oh well, all things must change, but It was great while it lasted...

Danny 'The Lorp'

I hung at cropsey park sometimes. Played handvall and basketball...who was the old guy that played basketball? always pissed everyone off.skinny white hair.... the Puerto Ricans played handball. I remember Ralph he became a mailman. I knew some louisianna boys...definately knew of Clayton he was killed outside the bar I hung in on 18th ave called Oliver's

My dad is "Joe Alba" from Alba's poolroom on 86th St. He is 86 years old, is as sharp as a tack, and is doing well. I know that he would LOVE to hear about any memories "his boys" have of the poolroom.

I haven't thought about that poolroom in years. I used to hang there even when I was too young (I think there was an age limit wasn't there?)anyway i didn't realize how good a pool player I was till I went into the military, everyone played pool in B'klyn and they were all good . I played in the Air Force and beat every body but in B'klyn I wasn't even one of the top players. There was thois guy who thought he was really good so he was gonna give me a break and play left handed. I beat him . Then he played me right handed and almost lost. I hadn't played in a while and he was the best around in Mississippi go figure.

Hey Tommy this is your cousin Theresa. I can't beleive my daughter found this web site with you on it. I am sorry about Baby Tommy death. No one even told me he was sick and I did not find out about his death until a week after he died. I hope you are doing well Please tell mom I said hello. Try and email me at my daughters email which is tanya12794@yahoo.com. I do not know how to get a hold of anyone. I miss you.

PS THERE IS NOTHING LIKE BENSONHURST. (THE OLD BENSONHURST ROCKS)

Hey this is Tanya (Tommy Gallaghers Cousin) I live on Bay Parkway and 69th Street. I was born and raised on 68th Street and 20th ave. Lived next to the school yard for 25 years. I am 32 years old now. I am gladly moving to upstate NY. I loved living here but I have to say that this neighborhood has gone to the dumps. If you look on Bay Parkway there are more stores that are chinese than american. Forget about Italian store or restaurants. Torres has closed. The streets smell horrible.

I used to hang out on Bay Parkway in the 80's and hung out on 20th ave in 90's. I dated Jimmy Nek from 20th ave back in early 90's. I always think back to when this neighborhood was awesome. Loved to go to the feast's. The 20th ave feast is on now and it SUCKS!!!!!!! My kids do not beleive me when I tell them how it used to be. Well I will say when I move I will miss this place.

Cropsey park! Shorehaven crew ... tough bunch of kids come out of there. Hope a few of you made it out alive. Dom Bat!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Does anybody remember the Shorehaven Lucheonette. My friends and I helped Alfred M. rebuild it after it was gutted back in '78 or so. Fun times.

I helped Alfred build it the first time. I worked with AL on many jobs and have know him since we were teenagers. Did u know the guys from Bay 16th St/ also hung out on Bath Avenue and 17th Ave Al lived on Bay 14th St.Name some people u knew.....

You probably knew Al when he lived on bay 19 and Shore Road and was married to Susan . We hung out at Oliver's bar back then I was in the military when AL's placed burned down... came back to B'klyn hung out worked and started a family lost touch with all the guys and girls tell me who u know or tell me your name and I'll tell u mine. We must know each other but u guys are so secretive ....just kidding.. If we know each other maybe we can catch up on stuff I been away from B'klyn for 20 years

I think you guys are before my time although I do remember when they put the video games outside on the side of the lucheonette... I remember the tailors next door, key food, gulf across the street...

Hey anyone remember 4th of July's down there? Now that was a war zone. Good fun :)

Hey Tanya, and everyone else,

I used to live on Ave. O between West 9th and West 10th from 1969-1988.

One of the advantages of living where I did was that I was right around the corner from the Marboro theater. We used to climb the tree in my yard, go over the roof of the garage, and into the back alley of the theater. Someone would leave the door open and in we'd go. I remember when Jaws came out. I was too young to go, but I remember hearing people talking outside my house. I looked out the window and saw the line for the movie stretch around the corner and right past my house! It was still one theater then. I saw Snow White with a class trip on my sixth birthday; we sat in the front row. I remember seeing "ET" where they gave out Reese�s pieces. Later I would go see Rocky Horror at midnight. Sad to say, the Marboro closed down. You can look here if you want to see some depressing pictures, or maybe just remember a little: www.hopetunnel.org/ue/marboro/ Check out the stained glass Firehose sign! Remember Jack's Luncheonette next to the theater (before they named it Sally's Place when they made "Over the Brooklyn Bridge" with Elliott Gould and Shelley Winters. I was in the crowd trying to see them when they were filming. I understand Elliott Gould lived just up 69th St.) I used to go in there and buy the candies on the counter because I could get a bunch of stuff for a quarter (not quite penny candies, but nickel candies!) Kraft caramels (look for the dark ones!) BBBats taffy lollipops, ice cubes (7 cents) and Joyva jell rings! Am I the only one who liked the Necco wafers?

My mom used to shop at Key Food mostly. Remember Pioneer? Remember when it burned? My sister went in there afterwards and brought home a bunch of groceries, canned goods and Rice-a-roni. My mother made her throw them out. Then there was MET foods, where my neighbor used to say, "I'm going to ET" because as far as he knew, there was never an M on the sign.

Remember Schwartz' Toy Store, later Schwartz' Variety Store on Bay Parkway? It was on the corner of 69th before it moved across the street and Rimini bakery took over the corner. I used to get candy there all the time. He was always a nice man; his wife scared me. I remember getting school supplies there, loose leaf paper, a ruler, those damn pencil/ink erasers that ripped through the paper. Spaldeens, blue balls. We played on W 9th on the side of the Avenue O Jewish Center. There were little metal signs that read "No Ball Playing. Violators will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law." I used to think it meant electrocuted. Remeber when the front of the Jewish center had those huge plate glass windows! They finally bricked them up after they kept getting broken (wasn't me.) I spent a lot of time on W 9th St. We played manhunt up to Ave. P until after dark.

Walk down W 9th St to Bay Parkway, and there's Baskin-Robbins across the street! Paul's hardware, Torre's (baked clams, stuffed mushrooms, and a giant square ravioli!) Queen pizza- thinly sliced onions on a round pie. Johnny's on Ave. O was more authentic. Remember Johnny? Later it became Gary's- I worked there one summer. I think the Electrolux store is still on Bay Parkway. Rainbow, Scorpio Realty with the funky gold and white doors. Roma furniture. And the subway station. Why couldn't the newsstand on Bay parkway ever stay open for long? OB car service.

Hey, I graduated from Seth Low at the Walker theater!

I played on the St. A's Dodgers in 1981- we had the dinner at Micali Terrace on 86th St. I got Neil Allen and Mookie Wilson's autographs.
I communed and confirmed at St. Dominic's (there was a controversy over which parish I lived in) but I went to church at St. A's with my Aunt Terry. Those little narrow stained glasss windows in the front; you could tilt out the bottom of one in the bathroom! There was a pizzeria on one of the corners on the way to church where sometimes I would go instead. Played pinball and the jukebox, and this funny game where you would win peanuts (it was cheaper so I'd play if I had less than a quarter left.) Hey, we passed Lou Ferrigno's gym on Bay Parkway and 63rd St.- there he is painted on the wall! And there was Barricini candy on the corner- I bought my first Lego set with my own money from that store.

Ganin tire on 65th St. Tang Fong- great Moo Shoo! Yin Ting, however was the best. Great spare ribs and if you ate there, you could see the lanterns made from puffer fish! Of course Philip's Dance Studio on W. 7th St. where John Travolta did Saturday Night Fever. Do you remember the Magic shop off Bay Parkway, I think on W. 8th? I bought a bunch of stuff there, my first marked deck (alright my only marked deck.)

The drug store on the corner of W. 8th and Ave. O. And that vertical sign- Really Chinese Food. The restaurants came and went, but they never stayed for long.

I hope some of my memories mean something to you. Though I now live in New Jersey, I will always be from Brooklyn! I still go back, to see my Mom and hey, Monte's sandwiches on Ave. O and W. 5th St.! Get the potatoes and eggs w/ mozzarella!

Hi everyone:I was born in Coney Island Hospital.
I lived on 23rd Ave between Bath & Benson until I was 14 then we moved to Bay 35th St between Bath & Benson, right down the block & on the same side as PS 101, which my 3 sisters and I attended. For middle school I attended JHS 128 (later my sisters went to 281 which replaced 128)
I went to Lafayette from 10th through 12th & graduated with a great crew of people in 1968.
If there is anyone out there from around that "era" please email me at Countonmom@aol.com.
I got married in 1972 & 2 years later bought a house in Huntington, LI. I felt like we were moving to another country; what culture shock, after coming from the "block", the "stoop", the "park", etc.
In LI there was no real Italian bakeries, no real bagel shops & at that time, no real detergent, except for suds-free. I used to "smuggle" it in from Brooklyn on my weekend trips there to visit the family. The regular detergents were banned in Suffolk County at that time. I eventually had two beautiful children, a son & a daughter who are grown & on their own. My son & his wife blessed me with a beautiful baby granddaugher Sofia Marie, who just turned 1. She really is the light of my life. I have been divorced now for 4 yrs & living further east in Lake Grove, LI & love it here though I will always be a Brooklyn girl at heart. In Bensonhurst our idea of a weekend away was visiting the grandparents in Coney Island & cousins in Marine Park. The beach was our playground & we didn't worry about skin cancer or eating veggies without washing them. Our grandparents had real organic gardens, home-made wine & other liqueurs.
On Palm Sunday if we were good our grandfathers would weave crosses, baskets & other shapes from the Palms we brought them.
Respect was not forced on us; it was engrained & there was no answering back. We had big extended families & nobody minded their business, nor were they expected to by our parents. Everybody knew everybody & you knew by the look when you were caught.
The boys smoked Camels & Lucky Strikes (no filters) & the girls Marlboros & Tarryton's. No sissy menthol for us. (I quit at 21)
Spinners was the only Supermarket then, right on 86th St. The best bread was at Reliable & Rex. We only bought it fresh & hot right out of the oven. Who can forget the original "diamond", "scalita" (Sicilian)& the twisted one, most with seeds. I used to eat most of the hot inside dough of one loaf before I reached home. That's how I got the nickname Mousie. It looked like a mouse had eaten through.
On the corner of 23rd ave. & 86th st. was the hardware store called Bandel's (this was before all the Home Depot's & Lowe's even were a thought).It was a family owned store & you could find almost anything there.
The big Williamsburg bank was in the old architectural style & very imposing for a little girl. My dad, who worked in a bank in the city, would take me there & explain what the tellers were doing & let me go up to the window with him.
My mom was a hairdresser & went from home to home at night & on weekends to help make ends meet. Sometimes entire families of women would be at our house for haircuts, rollers, smelly perms & styles. Remember those big domed hair dryers? You couldn't hear a thing under there. Remember Dippity Do, that thick gel?? & Brylcreme for the boys?? Kercheifs over the rollers on Saturdays??
My mom also was & still is a great cook & she passed that art to me. I love to cook, but don't do as much as I used to, now that the kids are on their own.
A few memories:
Hy Tulip - best Jewish Kosher deli
DeFilllipe's - best homemade Italian ices & pastries
Lenny's - best Pizza
Reliable &/or Rex- best Italian bread & 2nd best pizza
New Parkway - best Chinese Food
Louisiana Lanes - best place to go bowling & have fun (met my ex-husband there when I was 16)
Lafayette - best high school - Where is everyone from 1968?????
Bay Parkway (near Korvette's) best place to "make out" & watch the sun set
Verrazano Bridge - tied with Bay Parkway for best place to "make out" & count the cars going to SI
Barricini's-best chocolate
Gertrude & Phil's - best candy store/hangout
86th St. - best shopping & hangout
Rollerama - best place to spend Saturdays with friends (I have many bruises to prove it)
L & B Spumoni Gardens - best Spumoni, gelati & also great pizza & just a great place to hang out
Coney Island Steeplechase - best place to have fun & cut school & the Wonder Wheel was the best place to go up with your boyfriend & make out
Nathan's - the original - best hot dogs & definitely best fries ever - can't find anything comparable
Custard place near Nathan's - best frozen custard I have ever had & also can't find any better
Jahn's - Best place to bring a date, best giant ice cream concoctins with great ambiance & the best chicken/shrimp salad club sandwiches I have ever had.
Best bagels on Bay Parkway & 86th st. (don't remember the name)
Best egg cream - right under the el in the walk-up cigar store I think ???
Best cheap lunch - Corner of 86th st. Chock Full O'Nuts (cream cheese on walnut bread???)
I'm sorry this is long. I'm sure I've missed a few. Feel free to add to it.
Hope everyone has had a good life.
Stay well & God bless
With Love
Linda Perrone (mousie)
PS - After 32 years on Long Island I still have the Bensonhurst/Brooklyn accent.

Dom Bat,
How's your brother Joey doing? I hope he is well?

Someone here knows Dom and Joey V ... and make P too....

That's maybe P too. P being the initial of another V.

I know Dom and Joey Venezia but P?? I'm confused now?

Wait maybe Pete your dad? Limos? Correct?

Does anyone know if Peanut or his brother Greg are still alive??

Here's one for youse guys. How about Skully. I remember making our own caps by melting down crayons on the radiator. The more colors you could squeeze in the more funkier it was. Does anybody know if the game is still played today. On Bay 14th street in front of my friend Mike's house we spray painted a board. I'm talking about thirty years ago. No chance that it survived the ages of time I guess.

try living in f.t meyers florida for over 2 years after spending 24 years in bensonhurst ... theres nothing like bensonhurst or should i say now russian hurst but ya know what ya gotta love it any way....

mike

Bob,
Nothing like Skully. I doubt the kids in the hurst play it today. I drew many a board and melting many a crayon(I used matches) although after a year of playing I realized using the cap off of the push-up bars and forces in a rock to weigh down was the way to go.

I grew up on Bay 14 closer to 86th St. 1960's. Where on Bay 14 were u Bob? I'm 50 y/o how old are u?

Hi guys,

I am 44. I lived on 17th Ave.between Bath and Benson, but the guys I hung out with lived on Bay 14th St. across from PS 163 between Bath and Benson.

Does anybody remember the tall ships back in '76 over by the Verranzano on this very day, July 4th?

Ray,
I remember Al's father and mother living on Bay 14th a couple of houses down from Bath Ave. My friends and I helped Joe M. on many small jobs when we were teenagers. He always made us get him 2 cold six packs (make sure the tops were clean) from Max's or maybe it was Leo's deli on the corner of 17th and Bath, at 9am in the morning before the day's work started. Can you tell me if he is still alive or if you know the whereabouts of Alfred and what he is up to.

Looking for anyone who grew up hanging out on Shore Parkway between 20th and 19th avenue in the mid 80's to early 90's. There were a bunch of us. Drop a note if you have had the privilige of finding this site.

Looking for anyone who grew up hanging out on Shore Parkway between 20th and 19th avenue in the mid 80's to early 90's. There were a bunch of us. Drop a note if you have had the privilige of finding this site.

Bob
I haven't heard from Al in years. He was so heavy into drinking his whole life was steady going donhill. He really was a good guy at heart and he taught me a lot of skills in the trades so did his father. I can't believe u were still buying him beer because i remember him drinking beer every day also. I remember the tall ships I had a hotdog wagon at the bridge on 17th Ave and shore pkwy. Stayed there for the entire 3 days , slept on a beach chair. Alm plumbing's daughter Dolores was my partner she ran back and forth bringing supplies I manned the cart. I'm six years older than u so u can figure we never crossed paths growing up did u have any brothers or sisters my age?

I grew up in the bushwick section of brooklyn were theres alot of puerto ricans and african americans, I can relate to most of you from the bens, thangs changed were I live also, everybody in every block was like family in the early 80's to the 90's now everybody is strangers, most of the ppl I grew up with moved out of state, most of my friends got married and have kids and taking care of things, doing what there suppose to do, but yea, wow things aint realy did change, it aint what it use to be.

Does anyone remember The Mumps? They lived between 19th & 20th ave. I think. What about Joey Dogs, Fat Joey, Little Joey and the guy who used to sell fireworks in his basement every year during the Fourth of July (he used to give away a free BIC lighter with every $50 purchase!)And do they still have the 18th Avenue feast there?

Louie G,
Yes the feast still takes place as far as I know. The Mumps were where between 19th and 20th aves? I think the guy your talking about who sold firewarlks was on Bay 28th street. Where were you located?

The 18th ave and 20th ave feast still take place as a matter of fact the 20th ave feast just ended 3 weeks ago. These feasts are horrible now. They are at least 2-3 blocks shorter than they used to be in the 80's and 90's.

Also the people that go to the feasts are boring. No one fights like they used to either. I truly miss the days when Bensonhurst was fun.

Tanya,
I was in one or two of those fights; but I hope thats not all you miss from those feasts when they meant something. How about the sausage and peppers or the white skippies.....

I stumbled upon this site and read all of the comments which brought back so many memories. I am 41 and living in Virginia but I grew up on the corner of 19th Avenue and 70th St. Yes, right up the block from Alba's (I bet they are still there). What I would give to be able to turn back the clock 25 or 30 years - waking up on a warm mid-summer's day and going outside for stoop ball or stick ball, then in the afternoon, going to get a square from DaVinci's (Hope they are still there). There was a Good Humor man named Max who used to push his ice cream cart around all day (I can still hear him ringing those bells). It was thirty-five cents for a Good Humor bar. We used to have block parties which were the best! Everyone participated and there was always live music! I can still see all those people walking down 18th avenue. The women were about four feet tall, wore black dresses every single day, had their hair tied in a bun and had these huge moles on their faces! And who can forget "La Festa di Santa Rosalia?" That was awesome! Thanks for bringing back the memories....Ciao, tutti!

Hey Anothony you would probably know my step sister Angelique. She lives on 70th street and 19th ave. She is 42 years old.

Tanya, the name Angelique sounds familiar. But I am 12 years older than she is. Ask her who some of her neighbors were, I may know them. Did she also have an older brother who was a Mets fan?

yes she does and his name is Dennis. Her sister is Maureen.

HEY DOES ANYONE REMEMBER A GUY BY THE NICKNAME "THE HILT" FROM BENSONHURST IF SO WRITE BACK TELL ME A LITTLE ABOUT WHAT U NO OR HEARD

Italian Boy Born and Raised BABY!!! ....I'm 33 and lived on Bay 16 and 86th, 17th ave and Cropsey and 21st Ave bet Bath and Benson....I bought a house out on STATEN ITALIAN 2 yrs ago :(....I miss the late 70's and 80's in Bensonhurst!

I remember vividly...
Tolins, Punkins, Jahn's Ice Cream, Alba's, Korvettes, Cesars Bay Bazzar, More Fun, Alexander's, Lowe's Oriental (saw Star Wars in 1977 there) & the candy store on the corner of it, A & S, The Benson, Something Else, L & B, Lenny's Pizza, Pizza Den, Da Vinci's, the 17th ave and 86st candy store before the Arabs, Mr. Card, Chess King, The Wiz (not the big one on bay pkyway but the one in the begining of the el) The Bike Shop across the street from The Oriental Mannor, Odd Lot, Sugar, New Dynasty, Hy Tulip and it's flashing yellow bulbs, The Fun House magic store, Mar Lumber, Fantasy Headquarters, Toys and Things, Ave I Flea Market, Leisure World, Bertas 86, Mamma Turry's, Roll-a Ramma, Consumers, Roll a Place, St. Finbars, Books and Comics, S & J, Ricchielu Diner, Nut's and Candy, Photo Mat in the 20th ave parking lot, Music Stop, PANTRY PRIDE before Waldbaum's took it over off of 18th ave and 84th, Maggio Music, I remember Ray Boom Boom Mancini signing autographs at the video store (forgot the name) across from the 86st library.

Ugggggg there are so many more places but I just can't think about it anymore....I wish we all could jump in a time machine for just one day.... :( Anyone know what the name of the store that used to be Tasty Bagles was? How about the pastry shoppe on Bay 16th and 86st? Also the store that sold candy and toys a few stores from that pastry shoppe (late 70's)?

Unless you lived it you'll never know the MAGIC!!!

Alba's pastry shop ....remeber club 1717 bar across fromt he candy store on 17th ave and 86...also the fruit store on the corner under the apartment building? The candy store was Morris's and after that it was Red's after Red's it was wonde by gansters ...I think Spero who is now doing time with Mikey scars also from 17th ave and 86th st. Sal Valenti's barber shop...th butcher shop the fish store Rinaldi's grocery store.... does that jar a fe memories?

hey i would like to ask anyone again if they remember "the hilt" from 13th ave if so please write or email me a boomz321@aol.com

Hey Tanya I do remember Dennis, the Met fan. Here's how - sometime in 1973 he threw away some Mets yearbooks from 1965, 1966, 1967, 1968 and 1970. Just getting to like baseball and also following the Mets, I took those yearbooks out of the garbage can (I was 8 or 9 at the time). Anyway to make a long story short, I kept those books for 30 years. When I moved to Virginia in 2001, I couldn't take everything with me so I sold the books on Ebay. Funny how I remembered that! Anyway they lived right next door to Tony and Roxanne, right??

I also grew up in Bensonhurst 1960-1998. Miss it. Lived on 65th st and 21 Ave. Went to St. A's PS 205, Seth Low and FDR. Site bring back many many found memories.

Yes that is him. He still lives at the same house. It is so hard to beleive he threw anything out. his basement is filled with tons of things.

Hey Tanya
I just came across this site. I used to hang out with Angelique. Did you live in the same building as Gary? If you did then I think I remember you. You were a little girl. lol My name is Joyce. If you ask Ange, she will know who I am. Do you remember Chrissy? She lived across the street from you in the apt bldg.

Hey Joyce I do remember you. My parents were Terry and Joe we lived right next to the PS 205 school yard on 68th. How are you???

Tanya- Yes, I remember your parents. How are they doing? I'm doing ok. I live in Staten Island. I'm in Brooklyn almost everyday because I work here and my mother still lives here. She lives on 19th Ave & 69th St. I'm sure you remember Chrissy. I still keep in touch with her. She just bought a house in Jersey. I read on one of your postings that you moving upstate. I wish you all the best. Do you remember Candy Hut on 20th Ave across from PS 205?

I was talking about their (joey and dom's) brother Paul V. Hey, anyone want some Uncle Bobby's Bagels?

Wow....reading these messages really bring back some great memories. I lived in Bensonhurst from 1965-1974. Went to PS 205 on 20th Avenue. Does anyone out there remember Joe Scro, Little Joey, Fat Joey, the Arthurs, the Mumps, Cheech, Otto, Jimmy (I think he got hit by a car twice but survived both times), Meatball, Jerry, Eric, Vito. What about "The Pink House"? And wasn't there a kid on the block (I forget his name) who went on to become an actor? And then there was Max the Good Humor Man, and an old guy who owned a shiny new mint cream colored Buick. If anyone knows any of the above, we were definitely neighbors! I wish I could go back in time and re-live one day during the Summer of 1973. That was awesome. Take care, fellow Bensonhurstians!

Frankie- I know an Otto but i'm not sure if it's the same one. Did Otto have dirty blonde hair? He used to hang out with Mark. I also know a meatball, was his real name Frankie? I don't think i know you because i moved there in 1975.

Joyce-Otto did have dirty blond hair, sort of like a mop-top, but I didn't know any Mark. Not sure what meatball's real name was, he was just a fat guy that everyone called Meatball.

You guys are the 75058 best, thanks so much for the help.

Frankie- Yes, that had to be Otto. Mark was a short skinny kid with braces and dark brown hair. Do you remember the pool room on 20th Ave and 73rd Street? That's mostly where Meatball hug out. What street did you live on?

Joyce- I vaguely remember a pool room on 20th ave. I lived on the corner of 19th and 70th. Do you remember an old, heavy guy that only had one leg? And did Meatball ever get hit by a bus? I seem to remember a rumor about that

Frankie- I don't remember the old guy with one leg, and I'm not sure but I think Meatball did get hit by a bus. My friend, Angelique lived on 19th Ave and 70th Street.

Joyce-I don't know your friend but she must have lived right up the block from me. We may have even crossed paths about 30 years ago?? How old are you? I am 40 and live on Long Island since 1975. I'm curious if I know you or not. Would love to meet you and discuss the "good old days"

Grew up (born 1948)in Bensonhurst...Bay Parkway and 84th St. Hung on 86st by Famous. So many sweet memories...but the people, they made it live. It still lives in us including the sadness of way too many who didn't make it. Stenza, Nadal, Big Louie and his sis, A Steiner, Krieger, Plotkin, Tabole, London, Billy and Bobby B, Albert and Peter C, Elliot G, Jo Jo J, Pernicone, Harvey Aa..., Richter did it, Bertelli, Ricobono, Danny F, so many more...from all circles, mixing with each other but not actually together...some kind of narcosocial melting pot. Wiseguys and hippies. RIP Izzo. So many more. And the girls....they were special and sweet. God...Who got out?

Frankie- I'm 43 and I didn't move to B'hurst until 1975, so I don't think we knew each other. Although I'm sure we knew alot of the same people.

anyone from lafayette high school 1977-1978 grad.
Lived at 24 bay 31 street and use to go to all the italian dances and also went to Jays lounge- looking for a long lost friend Debbie Rossi- Wonderful Memories!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I just wanted to thank all of you for bringing back such great memories. I lived in Bensonhurst all my life. Im 31 years old and just moved a year ago. My parents owned Alba Pastry Shop on 70th And 18th Avenue. After my dad Luigi owned it for 42 years about 2 1/2 years ago we sold it and my parents moved to SI and opened Luigi's Dolceria on Hylan Blvd. It was a big and sad move and change. Times have changed and after a lot of thinking the decision was made. I along with my husband and kids moved to Jersey it something we had to do for our kids.Please don't get me wrong but I do miss Brooklyn but things changed & people changed. I still go back often for doctors, my grandparents, some italian shopping (sausage). I don't miss the parking and the mess. I remeber sitting outside on my bench with my guy friends because we were not allowed to go to the corners. I was always at the feast because of the pastry shop. Just the little things that we did like sitting in our yard jaring tomatoes. Life changed in Bensonhurst. A lot of stores are gone, houses are going down and large apartments going up. I would never move back but I miss it everyday and thank my parents for all the great memories we had on 64th Street b/w 24th Ave & Dahill. They waited till we all married and had kids before they decided to make this drastic change in there life. I went to PS 177 for kidergarten, St. A's till 8th grade and Fontbonne for highschool. I miss the days outside with Frank LaPeruta (Yez), Jerry DeVito, James DiPietro, Brian Cardella, Lea Fiore, Josephine DeAngelo. We had good times just hanging out being kids. If anyone is reading this and knew Frank LaPeruta, sad to say Frank passed away (God rest is soul). Well, let me go just sitting around thinking now and pulled out some old pictures. Good NIght to everyone. Lets keep this up and writiing about good old time in Bensonhurst.

Antonietta

Does anyone remember a guy Tommy Biteddo, he hung with a guy Bob (red) they use to call him. Tommy lived in Bensonhurst on ave U and west 10th!!If you know him or his where abouts contact me at Linc200@aol.com

Antonietta, I lived right up the block from Alba's. Moved to SI in the seventies (I'm actually about 5 minutes away from Luigi Alba's) Your dad's pastry shop was the best. Everytime I think about the old neighborhood, I can see in my mind that big scripted Alba's sign with the round yellow lights that used to bring back so many memories.

let me tell you reading all these memories really brings back good ones,like hangin out on 86st next to your car weather it be a el dorado ,riviera,or coupe those were the days pastels,the vegas diner,we used to go to manhattan beach all day then criuse ceasars bay then hit 86st who could forget uncle bobbys bagels what about the music,native love,she has away anyway anybody wanna chat email me for all these fond memories i im still here but this time im married and have a family but i would not mind to chat about those days so let me know by the way i went to madison hs and am 37 years old hung out in a red bonnevile with simon and mike and i had a silver fleetwood again im still here i live on west 5 street

I stumbled upon this site looking for info on my elementry school, PS 177. Iwent to Seth Lowas well for 7th, then moved to Fl in 85. I hung out with Andrea, Charlotte, Alyssa, Cia, Suzie. At Seth Low with Connie, Tanya, Cheryl. It was nice reading about everyone's memories. Some familiar to me too. It's got me all nostalgic. If anyone knows these people let's hear from you.

Hey Deena, I was wondering what happened to you. Didnt you live on Bay Parkway? How is everything going? If you want to email do so at Tanya12794@yahoo.com. Ciao

looking for anyone from Bay 16...17th ave area off 86yh st to Bath Ave. Around the age of 50

Hey People,

Unreal the memories you all have bought back. Im actually crying a bit..Alot of names i remember, some i still even see and unfortunately some are passed. Peanut, Paulie.G Im still in bensonhurst.Yes the neighborhood has changed but i still love it. I can pass certain blocks with my daughters and tell them a memory. I hung out on 85th and 20th..umm cropsey park, played handball a lot. Knew the Bath Avenue Boys among other groups. Those were the days!! Any questions about people from back then i'll try and answer.

What year did the cruising on 86th Street end? I remember it vaguely in the early 80's, it was just like American Graffiti, except every other car was a Monte Carlo or a Cutlass :)

I think it was 83 BB

Cruising stopped around 1991. How do you remember Peanut? Is he still alive? How about his brother Greg? This message is to B'hurst

I stand corrected peanut is alive as far as i know though i havent seen him around nor greag. I knew them from Cropsey Park. They lived in Shore Haven. Chestnut is the one that died, different crew.

91 huh seems like it was way longer than that.

Yes Chestnut passed he was from Bath Ave. I went to school with him and Anthony Ponzo who also unfortunately passed as well.P.S. 200 was the school what area in Bensonhurst were you from? Message is to B'hurst.

Bensonhurst was definitely an awesome neighborhood to grow up in. I definitely remember the cars on 86th street. It was a ritual. I went to FDR and we used to hang out on 18th avenue from the park below 65th to 86th and on to the Bath avenues. I actually lived there again about ten years ago now and it was already changing, but there were still a lot of hold outs from the old days. I lived on 80th between New Utrecht and 18th avenue.

I was three blocks from ps200.

Three blocks anyway can be 19th ave and Benson could be 20th and Benson. I lived on 20th ave between Cropsey and Shore Pkwy did you know anyone from there? Message to B'hurst.

I dont remember i think willie lived in those buildings but im not 100% sure. If you name names i'll remember.Did you live in the private houses or the shore haven buildings with the little square in the middle with benches?

I lived in a private house. How old are you?

39

I grew up on bay 23rd & bath.Greg , Peanut & their sister Rosemary actually lived on cropsey between bay 23rd & bay 22nd.But that was many years ago

Thats right they had a sister, I forgot that. Bay 23rd. So you hung out with AAron, Lance,Maddog, adrienne, Scarlett and all of that group?

Name some of the handball players down at cropsey park if you could. Really great memories...

Tony,
I'm so glad Alba's brings back some good memories. Everyone says the same thing about the Alba sign. Anyway, hope you visit our store (Luigi's Dolceria) in SI if you haven't already. Try before the summer ends they have entertainment outdoors on Fri & sat nights. Speak to you soon.
Antonietta

Hey Tony Glad to hear that Alba's brings back good memories.... who could forget the yellow ALBA sign... see you have been speaking with my sister Antonietta... lets keep this page going

Hi everybody, I lived in Bensonhurst from 78 to 85 on the corner of bay 14th and benson ave. hung out with Louis carpino, Augusto zingaro, Michael Abate, Peter, Johnny Sparaccio. Went to ps 163 and dyker heights. Great old days, miss the guys. If anyone remembers the names please keep in touch.

hmm i remember a few older guys ralph, jerry, ray, younger ones mark, chaz, willie, armondo, javier, vinny, thats a few i remember. some of the bath avenue guys..Mario, tony, turk, chevy or something like that..lol Ahh the memories.

Carmine how old are you?

wow, i cant beleve im doing this. stick ball 200 sy every sunday still some things never change come down all welcome

I see these pictures every morning first hand, I live here.Every morning I drop my wife off at the 18th ave train station. I remember when Ebinger's was open, they had pretty good doughnuts... That place has been closed for many years now. I use to think I owned the streets down here when I was a kid, now I sell real estate in my beautiful neighborhood called Bensonhurst. I hope everyone enjoys the feast this Labor Day weekend. I'll be out there on 18th Ave. Saturday night even if it rains. Hey Vinny! I love stick ball!!! When can we play?

I grew up on the Bensonhurst/Boro Park border 1962-1977. Did anyone go to Holy Ghost? I was in the Class of '76. I'm trying to find a guy named Dean. He used to live on 48th St, went to PS 192, Montauk, and FDR; he'd be 44 yrs old now.

anyone remember me Bobby Caddy or bobby v? I went to Madison was nuts over my car back in the day and still kinda am now. Things have changed but thoes where the days!

I happen to land on this website and I am so excited I did I literally started my way from the top all the way down! I grew up from 3rd grade to high school on Bay Parkway bet. Bath and Cropsey moved to Dyker Heights during 2nd yr of high school and moved away for a few yrs to Fla. but I missed NY so much I moved back. (Parents never left)I am now 33 and reading all of this reminds me how I was so much younger than everybody then but never realized it. 86th was the shit when I graduated from St. Mary's in 86 I didn't want to celebrate graduation!! I wanted to go to Jahn's smoke cigs and hangout in front of burger king! Thru the years you always run into someone you knew and to answer the question about Greg and Peanut... Last I heard Greg was doin well he had a few business' he even had a tire store on bath across from John the Tailor(remember him)but,his brother was doing time. Many of the Cropsey boys even the rockers have all grown up and married and have children. Some never really did anything also with themselves. I loved going to Ceasar's Bay. I still call it Ceasar's Bay!!

I loved those silly cropsey guys. I had fantastic times with them, i was a little older i believe. 2 years or so pfft maybe more. I remember drinking and smoking pot in the basements of shore haven..good times!!!

Ray I'm 36, sorry if I didn't answer to you earlier but i had some problems with my laptop, so I read your message only now. If youre on line please don't go away. I'll wait for any information you can give me.

Hey, Anyone remember people on 85th and 20th, John D. John B. Denise few others i cant remember..umm Marcello and anthony..wonder how they are doin.

I remember the older guys from 85th & 20th ave .Billy S., Peter,Ciro.I acually hung out for years on 20th ave& 86th st.I remember Anthony & his brother Teddy from Lenny's,Tony who ran the Benson movie theater,Steve from the candy store,Deborah Charles,Hy tulip, record Hut.The best was in the summer getting a cup of large Lemon ice from Lenny's & spikeing it with vodka & hanging out on 86th st.Remember when they did Midnight Madness on 86th?Or getting Mai Tais to go from Hunan Wok on 14th ave & 86th st, they used to put the drinks in wonton soup containers.Or hanging out eating fried rice out of the container from New Dynasty.Is New Dynasty still there?

I grew up in a house on the corner of Quentin Rd. & Stillwell Ave in the 50's. Moved to Howard Beach in '63...saddest day of my life. Bensonhurst is so firmly etched in my heart that my first novel, For Jennie which was just published by Port Town Publishing is set in Bensonhurst in 1957. It is a tender love story amidst the closeness and hilarity of an Italian American Family. For all of you who wear Bensonhurst close to your heart, please consider buying it. It is available on amazon.com and barnesandnoble.com Any book store can order it although it is not totally in their files yet...you have to give title, author and possibly publisher which is Port Town Publishing. It is NOT a self published book, but Port Town is a small publisher so things move slowly. Everyone has been giving glowing reviews and are absolutely nostalgic and exhilarted by the memories. I was on this site researching YOUR memories for the current manuscript I am working on which is also set in Bensonhurst. Thanks for all your help. Drop me a line if you read For Jennie and tell me what you think.

I remember a few of those things you mentioned and i remember Billy. S he was a cutie!!lived on 82 or 83rd i believe.

Hey Carmine I'm 50 so we probably never met I grew up on bay 14 between 86th and benson. was there still a little store called Bono's on the corner of benson? There was John Risatti and his brother mousey. real short guys. The Calco family probably had someone your age they lived across from the school on bay 14. Was the boche court still there?

Lived in Bensonhurst most of my life. Grew up Bath Ave & 17 Ave from the 50's to the 70's. At the intersection was Herbie's Candy Store. Remember going there for newspapers and Mello-Roll ice cream. Right across was Glatter's Grocery Store, later Nat's, now something else.
At the other corner was Dolinsky's Drug store. It's still going strong after 90 years. It's owned last 30 years by the kid who used to deliver for old man Walter Dolinsky. My grandfather owned the buidling that housed the West End Citizens Club on Bath Ave - a bunch of old Italian guys. Most of the old shops are gone. I watched them build the Verrazano Bridge and the Korvettes Shopping Center, long before it was Casears Bay. There used to be a Wessons's hamburger jointthere. Went to PS 163, Dyker Hts JHS, Lafayette HS. No metal detector back then - didn't need them. Belonged to St. Finbar's Parish. Had a lot of friends at New Utrecht HS and Brooklyn Tech. Remember the old theatres - Loews Oriental on 86 St, Walker on 18 Ave, Deluxe on Bath Ave and The Benson on 86 St. Loved going to 86 St for toys from John's Bargain Stores, Carvel, Jahns, Lenny's Pizza. Later when I got a car, to Spumoni Gardens and the old White Castle at Stillwell & 86 St. Loved cruising down 86St Friday and Saturday nights. Most of my friends were Italian or Irish, then Jewish when I went to Lafayette. Occasional rumbles with the guys from the Marlboro Houses, but no one really ever got hurt. I'm sure we weren't the only ones to sunbathe on those flat. black asphalt roofs or go on the roofs to watch the fireworks from Coney Island. Touch tackle football in the parks. Biking along the Belt Parkway. Catching porgies, eels and a lot of sea robins off the rocks by the bay. When I was older we went to the bay to "watch the submarine races" - hey use your imagination. Took the West End B train to Coney Island for Nathan's hot dogs, the Wonder Wheel and the beach. Now it's the D line. As Coney went down we started to go to Brighton Beach. Then Manhattan Beach - there you'd find the prettiest girls ever. Then and now the prettiest girls came from Brooklyn - hope my wife doesn't see this! Five years away for college. Came back to 75 St in the early 80's. In OL of Guadalupe Parish. Checked out the Italian feasts on 18 Ave in the summers. World's best Zeppolis and Expresso - but then I'm Polish so what do I know! Hung out at the Irish bars in Bay Ridge and Randazzo's Clam House in Sheepshead Bay. Stayed through out the 80's and halfway through the 90's. Got married, had a few kids and now the last 15 years exiled to Staten Island. Still come back to Brooklyn about once a month. In some ways it's changed totally. A lot of Russian and Chinese, still some Irish, Jewish, some Polish and a lot of Italians -but what does that matter. People are people.In other ways it hasn't changed at all. Brooklyn is eternal!

Ray,
Just saw your post after I wrote mine. If you're about 50 and lived on Bay 14 and Benson, do you remember:
Mr Kane, the principal of PS 163. The church in the basement - St Frances Cabrini, the 19th Hole, the old mob hangout at 86 St and 14 Ave. The twotoughest guys in the neighborhood, Greg A. since he's my best friend's cousin, I'll leave out the last name) and Mikey "Animal", fireworks on Bath Ave during the Fourth of July?

Hi Paul.....this is camille kelly from bensonhurst.......I wrote on this fabulous website also......I just read everything you wrote and lordy, do I remember.....I also graduated from Lafayette, 1967.......Do you remember Mitchells drive-in? I cant remember if it was on 86th street, but I think it was by the VA hospital....All I know is that chicken in the basket and fried was $1.25, the most expensive thing on the menu......Do you remember Fae Mart on Ave U and Bohacks, before it became Packers...........God, it seems like an eternity.....If anyone else remembers any of this, please email me....thanks, camille

Paul I was Mikey Animal's best man at his wedding and knew Gregory Albi when he was a little fat kid and watched him grow into the biggest guy in the neighborhood. Know who I am yet? Remember the only Puerto Rican in the neighborhood? I remember when they built St Francis. How bout Fuffy's pancake house on the corner of 16th ave and 86

Paul and Ray,

I remember P.S. 163. I lived on 17th Ave about 5 houses away from the schoolyard. Mr. Kane and even Greg's names bring back some recognition. I am 44yrs old. I went to CCD at St. Francis as well as my confirmation and all that stuff. I remember the 19th hole and Oliver's with their shuffleboard.

Paul, I hung out with the guys from Bay 14th. Joe-Cy, Alfonse and Anthony G., Mike E. although I am a few years younger than you guys, maybe the names ring a bell. I remember the West End Citizen's club. Do you remember the name of the restaurant on the corner of I think it was Bay 14th or maybe Bay 15th street and Bath. I remember walking by there when I was real young, around 8 or 9 maybe and seeing the bullet holes in the window. I remember hearing that it was some kind of a hit.

I remember going crabbing with my friends behind the old Korvettes. Used to get up at 5am on a Saturday and hang out all day eating and reading girlie magazines. How about the Spumoni Gardens, is it still there? There was also a luncheonette on Bath between 17th and Bay 14th where we used to hang out and get our chocolate egg creams and Italian ices.

Does anybody remember a place called Two Tom's. I don't remember it being in Bensonhurst but they were a family style restaurant with great food.

I remember hanging out by the Belt Pkwy's grassy area over by 17th ave park drinking with the guys. Back then we were into Boone's Farm and quarts of Miller. I'm sure if I go back there I will probably find the empty bottles that we buried in the ground after we finished drinking.

Hey Ray,

I remember the calco family, went to school with one of them.Saved my a.. when I moved from Italy to brooklyn when i was 8 years old. Remembe the Pizzeria on the corner of benson and bay 14th and the store on the corner of baY 13th and Benson. I don't live there anymore, moved back to Italy about 21 years ago, but still keep in touch with some friends and relatives that still live there, was in bensonhurst a few years ago and god did I feel back home. Came back memories of when I was a kid playing skully, slap ball, touch football, whiffle ball. great years were the late 70's and early 80's. Remember goin to Ps 163 when Mr. LaroccA was the principle. What can i say great years.

Hello to all .
I grew up in Bensonhurst, born in 1959, lived on 26th Ave. I moved to Staten Island in 1989 retired from NYPD (was a Rookie in 62 pct) and moved to FL. I try to tell my kids and friends down here what it was like to grow up in Bensonhurst, the sad part for them is not knowing that there was such a world. We all experienced something that will never be felt again, but those who did we always remember the time we had.

To all: Thank you for all the memories. Now you got me going again. I was out in Queens yesterday pertaining to my job. Coming back to Staten Island, the Belt Parkway going to the VZ Bridge was a parking lot with the Labor Day traffic. Got off Cropsey Ave to Bay Parkway, zigzagged to Bath Ave and took the streets to the bridge. Even with all the changes, it felt good just to pass through.

Back to memories. Anyone who grew up in Bensonhurst / Bath Beach durng the 60s and 70s probably remembers 2 terrible fires. A row of houses went up on Bay 14 near PS 163 and another row of houses went up on Cropsey near 17 Ave. Ironically, a friend of the family had lived both places and was burnt out twice. Such a tragedy. Another famous fire that comes to mind was the tanker that caught on fire in Gravesend Bay. The burning hulk drifted under the VZ Bridge and scorched the lower roadway. Also in the early 60's 2 airplanes collided over Bensonhurst. One went down in Staten Island and the other crashed in Park Slope near Union St and 7 Ave.

Back to more pleasant things. Yes, I can recall kids drinking Boone's Farm by the bay, but "watching the submarime races" on the grass involved babes, not booze. The 'hood had many parks and play grounds, but to me 17 Ave Park was still the best. Before there were pagers, cell phone, email, intant messaging, text messaging, we just hung out in the park and talked face to face. Dyker Park was second-my dad used to take me there and fly kites. Benson Park was third, but when I was real little, Nellie Bly kiddee park was awesome.

Back to local "characters". I never hung out with Greg or his brother Vinnie, just knew them casually. I was and still am close friends with their cousin, who still works in the neighborhood. Mikey's dad owned Alm Plumbing and did a lot of work for my family, at my old home on Bath Ave and my aunt and uncle on Bay 17 and Benson Ave. I believe he took over the business and did very well for himself. One of the posts mentioned a Billy Bright. I seem to recall, although I could be mistaken, didn't someone of that name come to a bad end in the early 80s?

The post office, long remodelled is still on Benson Ave and 19 Av. Near the 62 St precinct house was a catering hall called Colonial Mansion. Two of my sisters had their wedding receptions here. It's gone now. My two sisters also graduated from Lafayette. Before Lafayette was built, my mon and 2 uncles went to New Utrecht. Years ago there used to be an annual football game called the Turkey Bowl between Lafayette and "Utrecht". Across from St Finbars was a funeral home called Daniel George and Sons. Many a loved one was buried from there. They're closed now. Other businesses on Bath Ave. There was an A&P near 18 Ave in the 60s. I think it was an Aiello's for a number of years in the 70s and also a Keyfood. Also near 18 Ave was Pearsons hardware. It has a different name these days but still is a hardware store. There was a Italian pastry shop on Bath Ave between 17 Ave and Bay 14 that had great Italian ices. Across the street was an Italian bakery that sold great bread and also pretty good thick crust Sicilian pizza, but their name escapes me at the moment. There was a clothing store on bath between 17 Ave and Bay 16 called Feders. I've already mentioned Herbie's candy store and Dolinsky's pharmacy in my previous posts. Near Dolinsky was Ambassador camera shop. I believe there wa s a small Met Foods nearby as well.

But the real place for serious shopping was 86 St. There was a Spinners Market near the elevated subway 18 Ave stop that became a funeral home. Near them as Tollins Discount. Also under the subway steps was a 24 hour newstand. Up the block was West End Bakery. On the corner was a Aids Auto Parts store or something like that. At 86 and Benson Ave was Benson Pharmacy. Across 18 Ave was Alpine car dealer, or something like that. At 16 Ave and 86 was a lumber yard. Going along 86 st - Johns bargain Store, Jahns and Carvel for ice cream, Zeskand's for school supplies, Hy Tulip for the kosher hot dogs, Normandie bakery for jelly donuts and black and white cookies. No offense, I love Italian pastries, and to me cannolis are a little piece of Heaven, but you got to be Jewish to make a good black and white cookie or a decent knish.

After Mass at St. Finbars on Sunday, my dad took us to the bakery for fresh baked goods. I was born in the 50s, but anyone who belonged to St Finbars from the 30s to the 60s probably remembers a kindly old priest named Father Donegan. I don't know if he is still alive, but a few years ago he was in the Tablet and celebrated his 90 something birthday. God Bless him!

A bit of trivia well before my time. Trolley cars used to run along Bath Ave until the 30s or 40s. The tracks date from the 1860' and 1870's. Steam engine trains used to run up New Utrecht Ave and along Bath Ave to Coney Island. In 1918 they built the 86 st "El" and electrified the old train tracks on Bath Ave and ran trolley cars along them for many years. My family was in Bensonhurst since the early 1900s and my mom told me stories of the beaches and hotels on the bay, before they built the Belt Parkway. I guess it's time out for now. Please keep the memories coming.

hey carmine,
you remember joey calco he�s a federal witness now take a look at www.ganglandnews.com (april 20 2000) yeah he�s a big time RAT.

Part of growing up in the Hust was getting a Tattoo, back then only tough guys got them (LOL). I was about 17 my buddy Mario had a car and we went to Tony's, he lived in a real shit hole, I forgot the area but you did not want to be there alone. The hard part was hiding the Tattoo from my your family. How many Italians fathers use to say you get one I'll cut off yourr arm.

Remember operation sail? that was when all the clipper ships passed by the bay and under th Verranzano bridge 4 of July 1976. I had a hot dog wagon with Dolores at the 17th Ave bridge. she was mikey from alm plumbing;s sister she also kept the wagon outside the store during the weekends. I wonder if anyone knows where the Russo's on bath ave have gone? There was Tommy Russo and his sisters Joanie, Audrey, and Susan and a brother named Louis. I dated Joanne Abbato across the street from the Russos also was a Susan Balestrieri, Frankie notch lost his tongue in a fight on bath ave. Johnnie the Greek used to write "Greek kills all" all over the place. Here's some more names Jimmie u remeber Mikey scars? another informer turned rat, on gangland they made him look like a tough guy ... I grew up with him also he got those scars from teasing his german shepard that bit him in the face.
Some Names: Vinny Vadoo, Jimmy Conneccio, Johnny Black...had 2 younger brothers Billy and Junior, Sally Black, Joe Kos, Sal the Wop,Adrian Raffa and his brother John, Tony Petrone his brother was Jackie Herman...Shot in the head on Bath
Ave, Paulie Burger... his sister Linda was one of the 2 toughest girls int he neighborhood, the other was Rosseanne Perone,

Yeah Ray,
saw gangland.com already and read also mob over miami. The book made me come across the mentioned website, knew some of the members of the crew back in the 80's, they always wanted to play tackle football with us but we didn't want to because they used to always be too rough. Went to school with Georgie A., sad thing what happened to him. Played football with Tommy R., couldn't beleive what I read about him, used to be such a good guy when he was a little kid. What can you do! life goes on and everyone is responsible for their life.

Any of you guys worked out at Bath Beach Bodybuilding on Ave U and West 10th St. Is the gym still there.

wow i cant beleve all the bath ave talk in here and i cant beleve im so board im reading it ...just kiding its great but i guess im the last of the mohigins i told you guys every sunday 200 park stick ball i grew up on bath ave i know every body you guys said prob know you

Born in bensonhurst- lived on highlawn ave & west 13th street- also on kings highway & west 9th

went to p.s. 97 & lafayette

now live on 86th & 21st

bensonhurst is what brooklyn's about

Antonietta, I have visited Luigi's - not the same "atmosphere" as Alba's but still the same great pastries and all. By the way, whatever happened to that big yellow Alba's sign?

I was kind of young but I do remember the pancake house on the corner of corner of 16th ave and 86th. It was a hot spot for after mass breakfast. It later became Embargo�s Clam House for a short time. I read about several people talking about the Loews Oriental and the Benson movie theaters. How about the Dyker on 86th between 5th and 6th ave. Alvi's dungaree store was across the street. They used to give you a Wooden Buck with each purchase good for a dollar off your next purchase. Three Star Lanes on 18th between 86th and Benson. Hong Pan on 86th and 14th which later became Lotus Blossom. It is now an Italian restaurant called La Sorrentino. Does anyone remember Thrift Town Department store on 18th Ave.? Al�s Aquarium also on 18th and 82nd. How about taking your sled to Dyer Park Golf Coarse in the winter and sliding down Dead Mans Hill. I grew up on 85th and 15th. Went to St. Bernadette and New Utrecht H.S.. As much as things have changed there still lies a spirit that is reminiscing of yesterday in the neighborhood. I witnessed this when I attended the Italian World Cup Celebration 18th ave this summer. The turn out was much more than I would have ever imagined. It stretched from 86th and 18th to 65th street. The streets were jammed with people, cars, banners, even a car pulling a cart with hundred of cannoli�s free for the taking. It was amazing. By the way there are several videos of the event on Youtube.com.

I was kind of young but I do remember the pancake house on the corner of corner of 16th ave and 86th. It was a hot spot for after mass breakfast. It later became Umberto�s Clam House for a short time. I read about several people talking about the Loews Oriental and the Benson movie theaters. How about the Dyker on 86th between 5th and 6th ave. Alvi's dungaree store was across the street. They used to give you a Wooden Buck with each purchase good for a dollar off your next purchase. Three Star Lanes on 18th between 86th and Benson. Hong Pan on 86th and 14th which later became Lotus Blossom. It is now an Italian restaurant called La Sorrentino. Does anyone remember Thrift Town Department store on 18th Ave.? Al�s Aquarium also on 18th and 82nd. How about taking your sled to Dyer Park Golf Coarse in the winter and sliding down Dead Man�s Hill. I grew up on 85th and 15th. Went to St. Bernadette and New Utrecht H.S.. As much as things have changed there still lies a spirit that is reminiscant of yesterday in the neighborhood. I witnessed this when I attended the Italian World Cup Celebration 18th ave this summer. The turn out was much more than I would have ever imagined. It stretched from 86th and 18th to 65th street. The streets were jammed with people, cars, banners, even a car pulling a cart with hundred of cannoli�s free for the taking. It was amazing. By the way there are several videos of the event on Youtube.com.

Here's a few more we forgot...The fire station was on 18th ave tween 86th and Benson,I remember a restaurant I loved on 86 and bay19 I think called La Gioconda, how bout Mama Torre's on 86th and Bay14, we also used to take the bus to the Ft. Hamilton movie 69th and Ft Hamilton Pkwy,many store on 5th ave a 86th Kenny, any of u old timer's remember A&S Downtown Brooklyn? Abraham and Strauss...Fulton Street I was also remembering train stations with funny names.....Hoyt and Schemerhorn, De Kalb Ave, Myrtle Ave, u never see names like these where I live now... any others?

I grew up on 85 & 12 not the hurst but I remember all those places and things. Spinners which became Miraglia Funeral Home(know Nick M very well) how about sneaker circus across the street from the Oriental? Mama Tury on 86 street was great, the kitchen sink @ Jahns 3 o'clock in the morning.The B34 bus aka 13th ave bus which became the B1. So many place's now long gone and the people have changed. Its not the same and will never be again, but sites like this are great. Kenny did you go to St Bernadette, if you did then say hello to your Mom. Anyone remember 3 star lanes on 18th ave or the Ford dealership on 18 ave and 86 which is now the bank and used to have the dance hall upstairs. The list can go on and on, Antonietta I always wondered what happened to ALBA(best damn canolli)and I must stop by the new place. There was a time when we all hung out and played street ball and hockey. there were no computers and no cable and we made our own fun and who ever heard of an overweight teenager. We never stopped going from morning til night and either walked or bused it everywhere. anyone rember the Ice cream parlor on 13th ave and 78 street? I still live on 85 & 13 ave and its great to talk about the old days. Keep the site going and feel free to chat. Joe(joeypotsnpans001@aol)

Hi Joe M. ...I thought I was the only one from our part of the neighborhood. Ray ...I do remember La Gioconda, I ate there several times. I also ate at Mamma Turra's on 86th off of Bay 14th. My friends and I never really went down town. Does anyone remember Honey Boy grocery across the street from PS 204? Christies toy store on 86th off of 18th ave.? Robert Hall's on 86th between 7th and Fort Ham. Pkwy. I used to hate going into that store. Does anyone remember The Record Factory and The Little Record Shop on 86th off of 5th? Century�s was a much smaller store back then. How about Birnbaums, one of Century's early takeover victims. Ray � Do you recall a man named Vinny? He was a victim of Down�s syndrome that was probably a few years older than you. I�m not really sure where he lived. I always thought he might have lived somewhere on the Bay streets side of 86th street. He used to come to our block dressed as a cop or banging on a drum. I was very young at the time

Kenny I remember Crazy Vinnie he lived on bay 19 and Rutherford I have known him all my life. How old are u? Christie's toy store also had the race track in the basement.

Ray ...I'm 46. I never knew Christie's toy store had a race track in the basement. I remember going there to buy Hot Wheels cars or tubes for my bike. However, we always went to Thrift Town to buy our AFX cars and tracks. I remember Vinny standing on the corner of 15th and 85th directing traffic in a police uniform. The drivers never had a clue that he wasn't a cop.

Vinny the cop.He always hung out at the 62 pct.Sometimes he would come to our corner & blow his whistle until the real cops threw us off the corner.Does anyone remember TOM TOM? he was a big
mentally ill kid(guy) who used to go around digging through everyone's garbage.Sometimes his old man would come around trying to chase him home

Kenny
We use to have Vinny do the role call in the 62pct. One day we got a new Captain and was watching Vinny do the role call (LOL) The guy never knew.

What ever happened to Vinny. By the time I hit my early teens I never saw him anymore.

Hi Jerry,

have a friend who used to live on bay 14th who is married to a cop named jerry that's on duty at the 62nd pct, her name is Maurizia P. Her parents still live there.

Kenny you know there were two Vinny's . The one who dressed like a cop and was always on Bath Ave by the 62pct. The other Vinny was taller and skinny and used to sing on 86st and Bay parkway by the train station and he always was riding the B train.

I remember him also, he used to sing and play guitar. Do you remember an older man named Patsy? He use look through everyones garbage.

We also had a crazy Richie live on 86th st across from bay 14...My friend Joe had a brother named Abby we all watched out for him he has mentally retarded and was always smiling lived on bay 17 and Rutherford

I grew up in the Marlboro Projects and I so remember Vinny the Cop! A friend sent me this site and I'm loving it! Graduated Lafayette in 71'. OMG so many memories...

Ray... What kind of race the was in Christie's basement? Were you able to go down there and use it? What ever became of Vinny the cop? I never saw him when I hit my teen years.

I remember that guy on Bay Parkway, rocked back and forth playing guitar, i always through change in his box. Also remember Albie always carrying a little radio.

Kenny....yes u brought yoru own race car and u paid a entry fee and put your car on the track it was so long ago I am not remembering all the details. B'hurst yes I remeber abbey had a radio he always carried

Ray, The more I read this blog the more things come to mind. I'm sure you will remember Sol's, Greenstein's on 86th between 16th and17 th on your side of 86th and Schneider's Pharmacy on 86th and 15th. How about Tishla's which was a few doors away from the pharmacy? There was a supermarket called Packers in the mini lot between 15th and 16th. I also recall a bakery (I can't remember the name) on the opposite end of that lot for a short time before a series of banks took over the spot. You may know 2 of the 3 candy stores I'm about to mention. Tessie's on 15th between 84th & 85th.
Buddy's which was 2 doors in from 15th on 86th across from Mar Lumber. And Josie's which was right next door to the 19th hole.

Kenny u remeber a place on the corner of 13thave and 86th it was like a drive thru burger joint called the mongebooth or something. Yes I remeber Morris's always a stand by for an emergency shirt for an event. Morris's candy store on 86th and 17th ave across from the bar club 1717 later it became Red's and all us hippies hung out there

Ray, I am familiar with the candy store on 86th and 17th ave. I didn't know it was called Morris's. There is still was would be considered a candy store there today. I also remember the 1717 club. I was kind of young to have gone in there. I do not recall a drive thru burger joint called the mongebooth. On 13th and 86th? I thought the Knights of Columbus building that sits on that corner was there forever.
Joe M, You would probably know about drive thru hamburger joint on 13th and 86th.
Ray, when did you leave the area?

I left around 1984 ...Kinghts of Columbus was on the other side of the street. I used to love Christmas in the neighborhood especially when it snowed. Remebr all the X-mas tree places that would pop up around the streets? There woudl be someone there 24 hours. I worked one once it was great fun. Remeber the rides that used to come around the little ferris wheel , the giant swing....

Kenny / Ray I remember the Burger shack also. The Knights bldg has been there for about 100 years Anyone remember Arties candy store on 13 ave by the post office

HEY LETS ALL SAY A PRAYER TODAY. I LOST A FEW FRIENDS AND AT IN FRONT OF THE TOWERS MOMENTS AFTER THEY WERE HIT. WILL NEVER FORGET THE SIGHT OF THE PEOPLE WHO WERE JUMPING OUT OF BUILDINGS

I remember the little truck rides, they still come around, my kids go on them, they dont come around very often though. Joe there is no way anyone will forget that day. It isnt possible. Im sorry for your loss.

Hey does anyone remember a girl used to hang out on 85th and 20th. They called her peppermint patty. She used to hang out with a girl named laura all the time.

Joe, I remember Artie's. It almost seems like yesterday that we would go there to buy a shaffer cartridge pen for school or a duncan yo-yo.
Ray, I do remember the rides. I also remember A man coming around with the horse drawn wagon rides. I can recall a fruit man, a fish man and the trucks that delivered the spray bottle seltzer. Also a guy walking the street early in the morning yelling "any old junk .....Juuunnnnkkk man".
How old are you B'hurst?

I worked on the twin towers when they were building them I would come back and help re build in a heartbeat. Fruit guy used to come in a horse drawn wagon I remember an old lady lived on the third floor woudl send a basket down on a rope and the fruit guy woudl put her purchase in it.he woud sing baannnnaaannnaaas ten cents a pound bbbbaaannnnaannnaaasss

HEY RAY,

That crazy guy Richie was my Uncle. He was not mentally retarded. He was in the Vietnam war and litterally got blown up and when he came back he couldn't handle it and lost his mind. He was a crazy guy. He was always beating up cops. Just wanted to clear that up.

Also he died a few years ago.

kenny im 39

Im 28 yrs old and i remember hanging out at Ave s park and drinking beers with my friends. We would hang out on the corner of kings highway and west 1st. The good old days. It all died out in the mid 90's now its not the same boo hoo KHB West !!!

GREAT MEMORIES! WE GREW UP & STILL LIVE HERE! WHAT ABOUT "THE BARBER SHOP" OR JOE'S OF AVE. U?

WHAT ABOUT SUNRISE OR YIN TING? HARWAY AVENUE FEAST, AVENUE U FEAST. DOES ANYONE REMEMBER ZIA DORA ON STILLWELL AVENUE?
RING ALLEVIO, MAN-HUNT OR GOING ROOFIN' ON YOUR
NEIGHBORS GARAGE!
HOW ABOUT THUNDERBIRD ON KINGS HIGHWAY OR CHEAP CHARLIES ON AVE. U? JOHN'S BARGAIN STORE ON KINGS HIGHWAY OR NETTIES ON WEST 11TH.

I grew up in Brooklyn, moved to Long Island after I got married. I have to say there was no better place to grop up then Bensonhurst. You got to know everyone on your block and everyone knew you. You became family. Once you made a friend they remained y our friend for life. Not like that any place else. I have great memories of growing up there. Still have family there and love to visit, however i agree that it has changed. Does anyone remember

Mitchells Bergers
Frytags- New Utrecht Ave
Chuckies- Under the L
Pool Room- 20th Ave and 73rd St.
Harveys- Bay Parkway
King of Clubs

The Park Boys- Seth Low Park
The Golden Ginnies- 18th Ave
The Golden Ginnie Midgets- 18th Ave
20th Ave Boys- 76th St
73rd St Boys

These are GREAT memories. I will never forget them

What great memories you are all bringing back. I grew up on 17th ave between Bath and Benson. Went to PS 163, St. Francis Cabrini and then OLPH. Moved away in 1980. I can still remember all the old hang out spots. I knew Abby who used to hang out on Rutherford. My friends mother still lives on Bay 17th. I know the neighborhood isnt the same anymore but still miss it. Does anyone remember Night Gallery on the corner of 86th and 18th ave. Used to go there, they also used to be open on Sunday afternoons for the younger crowd. Me and my friends used to work there cleaning up. Jahns was a favorite and I do remember Sneaker Circus and buy my keds there. I used to go to Roses dance school on 86th street. Anyone else remember doing these things. I am now 42.

Thats the name I couldn't remember(Night Gallery) which became Crystal City and moved to my K of C council when it burned down. Seems no one remembers the Ford dealership that was downstairs from there. Jahns will always be a fond memory, remember the double wallop? It was the giant Ice cream soda in what looked like a vase. How about when nellie bly used to be where Korvettes is/was.

Hi guys anyone from ny can u tell me bout the albanian gang A.B.I

anyone know my dad...mike taromina...he said he grew up around there and was in the louisiana boys

I made it out alive and rember all our brothers who didn't. I miss the times and era of 70'80's *nd 90's. This has been good 4 me cause I felt alone in the memories. in the 2000's I knew there was nothing left and time to move on. Never wanted to but I don't like russian food or the language or 2 watch punks rat on there brothers who loved them. I am 35 grew up on bath ave 17 ave park 200 scool yard bay 23rd bay parkway cropsy park bay 31st and 23 avenue scoolyard shore haven. the place of my first memories was Nicks candy store on bay 16. The dejavoo ,american legion ,say hi cropsey lounge pillars,esplinod,just us lounge ,wrong number,als place Olivers fat sals,pizzarea little italy's pizzarea arty's and josie's on 13th ave.dances at the terrace on 18th ave christal city hob nails pastels heat waves earny barrys roller palace plaza suite ,over streets,hunan Wok Varraras bakery gentills bakery,Osti,s ravioli. Buddys Jr's liquor dottys lunchnett and jerrys every mornnig at puritins. If u know all these.or at least 90% of them you've been through what verry few haven known. We are the choosen few.you made it and are unblind paid you'r dues and lucky to be alive.you know it dosent have to be this way and you probibly know nicky izzo crazy louie John polio georgie adamo mikey deldukea micheal marola paulie G chessnut mikey d'rosa pattsy anthny ponso oj zale joeyEF rob vankline rob quincy billy kalihann louie tuzzio howie spiegal JOEY AMICO mikey mac JOE CRASH I can go on 4 ever but dnt want to rest in peace my brothers till we meet again.been a time and aplace that made u or broke u if u ID with the people and places u know da "DEAL". Keep it real

I can't believe nobody's mentioned Bath Music yet. No musicians here, eh? :) Bath Music was run by this old couple, Ma and Pa Castellano, who were there since forever. They had the same dusty guitars sitting in the window for 20 years. You'd go in for a pair of drum sticks and Ma would try to feed you chicken soup from her kitchen in the back. Hang out in front of the store and catch up on all the local gossip. They're both gone now, I think the city actually named the block after them. Another little bit of local history...

I know most od the names youve mentioned. I didnt know that howie passed as well or if im even thinking of the same howie. Was he from cropsey park? had a brother named steven? makes me sad all those people going so young. Some had such great personalities..sucks

Yo Bhurst. You got the right howie. He is the only one who died or natural causes.dose any body know what happend to marion G from bay 50th M hampsters sister

I'M SURPRISED NO ONE REMEMBERS THE BARBER SHOP JEANS ON HIGHLAWN AVE.!! IT WAS THE PLACE TO GET YOUR SASSOON JEANS OR SERGIO VALENTI'S! OF COURSE, THERE WAS ALWAYS THE FARM ON 86TH. NEXT TO THE BENSON THEATRE. HEATWAVE'S, DESIREE'S,
UNITED SKATES OF AMERICA! THE NEIGHBORHOOD WAS GREAT!!

The Farm on 86th street. Boy I remember that one, used to go buy the jeans there Sergio Jordace and Sasoons. WOW I forgot about them. That place was so small.

Hey outta? What natural causes did howie die from and how long ago?

Hey Bridge-n-Mike Yes, I do remember the Barbershop for jeans. I believe the price was $11.80 for a pair! Now look and see what the prices of jeans are! Does anyone remember the pool room on 20th Ave & 73rd Street?

B�HURST-CARMINE-RAY
hey guys, read all that junk in mob over miami. i worked for a couple of guys mentioned. but what happened to johny yammine was he killed. i lived on 18 ave and 64 street.

also wanted to know about anthony ferise

Read the exerpts from the mob news paulie. Did u know any guys from 19th ave boys? hung out on bath ave and19 at St Finbar which was bay 20 I think. Anyone know any guys from Bay 11 and Bath?

Great reading about Bensonherst. I was from Midwood but hung out there. Had many friends who rode around Mitchells all nite long. My husband is from Bay 17th Street. Anyone remember Joe Merc? Ammie Black- Tony Juice- Henry Spook- Johnny Square-Joey Mann-Zangy-Tony Sic-Saul Zeskin-Louie Jap -Freddie Crash -Richie Monk
The Golden Rods- Asphalt Angels?

Hey Carol how old are u? I grew up practically on bay 17 and don't recognize any of those names

I am writing an article about Bensonhurst. Could anyone tell me who I can contact about IBIA (Italians Back In Action)?

Remember Mount Olympus Bodybuilding? How about More Fun (arcade)?

Howie Spiegal was a great guy. Great handball player, tough but friendly like most kids back then.. will always remember his smile. Love goes out to his brothers. Till we meet again.

B'Hurst. Howies brain poped a clot or something. He knew about it but didn't want to take care of it cause he would not be the same if he let the doc.s remove it so he got 5 good years in as a normal person not all fucked up uknow what I mean. Ok now bay 19 and bath St findbar's I was there. Do u rember dottys lunchonett.styles by johnny or bay 16th you got to be a old school B.A.B. To rember this one Frank the barber (sweet and sour) who the fuck rembers that the best cut and shave in the wild wild westend. Who rembers Nick's candy store days the pool joint on bath ave (Tommy da Actor) yeah its getting real. Back in the day TK's shack or the club behind the "old bra shoppe".I layed my hand out who can stay in da game only the real can deal. .PEACE OUT to ALL who fell to The fiddle. N.T.B.F.

I'm looking for classmates who went to Boody Jr High from Sept 1954 to June 1956 and to PS 177 from 1946-June 1954. and to Lafayette HS, class of 1959 and/or Lincoln High School class of 1959 to discuss the memory lane days. I'm the author of 70 published books and interested in reminiscing online about those neighborhoods around West 1st Street or therabouts.

I write books on how to reminisce, write your memoirs/life experience, and tell a history of various neighborhoods or events. Feel free to correspond or discuss the history of the neighborhoods, schools, and events.

Anne, independent full-time journalist since 1963
newswriting@hotmail.com

was a BathBeachBoy back in the 60's. slogan
was 'BBB's Kill All', or so it said on the 21st ave side of shore haven facing cropsey park. mostly, we klled only ourselves.

what a time. even while in 3th grade everyone wanted to be a 'hood' when they grew up. we'd play 'ringo' in the 62nd pct.'s garage.

as we got older, i saw my friends get shot, saw another beautiful, beautiful (could have been a model) youth laying in a pool of his own urine, near hy tulip, stoned lifeless.

i'm one of the lucky ones. i'm alive. but i miss those guys so. sometimes they scared the cr@p out of me with their sadistic machiavelian egos and antics. sometimes we laughed and laughed.

we were family.

the lure and life of the gang, undeniably, had it's side effects, which include shame and guilt.

you won't find anything like this in an xbox. the kind of life - and death - we lived required looking further than the 2 inches away they hold their ipods today.

live a little. learn to fight.

yea i remembre b hurst like is was in 70 to 90 i hung out on bayparkway i lived on 51st and 19av and i hung out at ob car service

I am surprised that no one has mentioned the Bay Parkway Boys.

Ray
My husband lived at 17 bay 17th and then my step daughter lived there with her husband and baby until 2004. My husband is in his 60's.

Carol there was a big apt building on the corner and the first house on that side of the street was lived in by the Perones. Louis was a couple years younger than me he had a sister named Rosemary she was my age and the cousins Rosanne and her older brother i think his naem was Louie. I am in my 50's so maybe we didn't know each other since I would have been hanging out after he was older and maybe gone from the area. Do any of those names sound familiar?

Hey Joyce,

I used to hang out in the pool room on 20th, that was Butchie�s place. I used hang on 20th and 73 the corner luncheonette and 76 corner deli back around 73-78.

I JUST FOUND THIS SIGHT AND CAN'T BELIEVE ALL THE MEMORIES I HAVE ARE SHared with so many of you. I'm 35 now, GREW UP BT BENSON AND BATH ON THE Bay streets in the 70's to the late 90's.......i knew so many of the guys i read about so far...joey v. dom v. their father dom, pauly v....how about joe v. marty, mike m., carl, richie, and franky, ann, rob (RIP), brent, brian steve and howie (RIP)speigal,georgie, willie and kevin (RIP)...angel & vinny, lee, lil willie, franky (parot-i use to call him), richie & JEFF hockfeld, arthur jack (aj), ............and so many many more ............
I haven't been back there in years...i drove through recently to visit someone and my heart sunk, nothing looks the same, the streets may look similar but the faces have all changed, there was a time i couldn't walk aout of my door without seeing someone i knew...going back was sad. it was gr8 growing up there....but as great as my memories are i also have some sad ones...i am glad my children are being raised in a place where they won't see so much of what i have seen, yet i wish they could have the closeness we all shared haveing so many friends all from the same "neighborhood"......
u had to be strong....guy or girl....i think for those of us that managed to leave and find a better life for our children we've ackomplished a hell of a lot

BRIDGE-N-MIKE;

Your forget to mention �Hot Peas and Butter� Lets see how far back you can go, do you remember �Eddies Fix It Shop� on Quentin Rd, between W10th and W11th St. he was before Thunderbird.

BRIDGE-N-MIKE and all others

Check out this web site, Kings highway and west 9th st.

http://www.forgotten-ny.com/STREET%20SCENES/kingshwy/kingshwy.html

Anthony-Yeah that was Butchies place run by Sammy. Who did you hang out with over there? I was there in the late 70's

Ray-My husband lived at the other end of Bay 17.Between 86th and Benson. Know anyone down that way?

Does anyone remember Charlie Brown's Dungaree outlet on 86th street? If you bought a pair of jeans you would gt a free T-shirt with a picture of Charlie Brown on the front and the words, "All Jeans $12.99" below it.

Knew a guy named Emile can't remember last name. He had curly hair and a pug nose. Nice guy , friendly , took a lot of crap from kids. and ther was a Guy named Bernie.Joe Koz on the other side of Benson. Raymond (last name?) towards Bath ave is where all the blacks lived. That's all I remember

ANTHONY, I DO NOT REMEMBER HOT PEAS & BUTTER OR EDDIE'S FIX IT SHOP..I DO REMEMBER RAO'S AND HOP WAH CLEANERS ON THE CORNER OF 1OTH ST. WHAT WAS HOT PEA'S & BUTTER? ALSO, REMEMBER ELI'S CANDY STORE AND THE CAR WASH WAS WHERE DEL RIO WAS!

Im from seattle washington, and its funny how i came across this site. My cousins are from bensonhurst, and i wanted to learn more about it, so i looked it up, and boom. Not nearly as many italians over here, but my family is from wop hill, seatttle wa, the same thing happened there though, alot of asian, and russian families moved in. My grandma, and great grandma, and uncles still live there though. bensonhurst sounds like a great place to grow up, and be proud to be italian.

hi Al,

is your grandma napoletan? and your grandpa sicilian? cause I lived on the corner of bay 14th and benson. Had some family friends whose children moved to seattle.

Carmine,

When did you live on Bay 14th. I lived on 17th Ave between Bath and Benson, the next block over. Joey Lamantia lived on Bay 14th across from the schoolyard, which could very well have been the house next to yours. Also, the Gucciardo brothers (Alfonzo and Anthony), Joey Cilento, Mike Emilio, all guys I hung out with around 1976.

Ray,

Do you remember Shorehaven Lucheonette?

Bob I remember the lunchenette. I was good friends with Al . Helped him build the place when he got it . Worked with him on lots of projects and his father too. He was very talented ....too bad the alcohol screwed him up. I remeber when it burnt down . but I didn't help re-build, by that time I was a construction worker in the city. I grew up with Raymond DiSchiavo, Gregory Albi, Johnny the Greek. Mikey Animal, Sal the wop, Sal Valenti(Satch)Joe Koz...many mnore . who did u hang with?

Bob,

lived there from 79' till 84, remember a school pal named Luis C. He had a bigger brother called "Big" Adrian. My landlord's last name was Rapa.

hey danny the lorp..u mentioned my grandpa's name!! thats pretty cool..im gonna ask him if he knows u!

im 29 and live on 1st and ave s,i googled the wrong number loung on ave s to see if i can see any old stories about the joint.th owner baldy says it was the place to be in the 80's.anyone have any stories about the place?

Rest in Peace Carl Agostinacchio...
He passed away on Aug. 31, 2006
Great Friend for 30 years.
Left behind a wife, 2 sons, family, and many, many lifelong friends.
Local celebrity for many years worked at John's Deli.
Thank you Subway.

WANT TO READ ABOUT BENSONHURST IN THE 90'S?
READ "MOB OVER MIAMI" THE NAMES AND PLACES WILL SEEM VERY FAMILIAR. I WAS RAISING MY CHILDREN SO I WAS COMPLETEY OUT OF THE LOOP, BUT ONE OF THE CHARACTERS WHO WAS KILLED, IN THE BOOK, LIVED NEXT DOOR TO ME AND THAT I CERTAINLY REMEMBER.

hi judy,
would you happen to be judy shemtov from the same book. no really, who was your neighbor. or where did you live?

craig, what are you talking about? baldy who and what joint?

IM 31... I STAYED THE F@#K OUT OF BENSONHURST BACK IN THE LATE 80'S-EARLY 90'S......I ALSO STAYED AWAY FROM- BATHBEACH,MILLBASIN,GERRITSEN BEACH,PARTS OF CANARSIE,PARTS OF SHEEPSHEAD BAY,AND MARINE PARK AREA.....MOST WENT TO SCHOOL OUT IN THESE NEIGHBORHOODS BUT WE KNEW NOT TO STAY THERE AFTER 8PM OR WEEKENDS, CAUSE THERE WAS NO REASON FOR US BEING THERE......BUT THIS IS ABOUT BENSONHURST..GOOD THING THAT THE RUSSIANS AND THE ASIANS INTERGRATED 'THE HURST IN THE WORST WAY BECAUSE NOW I COULD WALK DOWN 86ST AND BUY FRUIT WITHOUT GETTING MY BRAINS BEAT IN BY A LOUISEVILLE SLUGGER OR DRIVE DOWN CROPSEY,18AVE,20AVE,KHY,AND THE WEST STREETS WITH MY WINDOWS OPEN ON A HOT SUMMER NIGHT PLAYING MY MUSIC WITHOUT MONTE CARLOS,COUP DEVILLES,EL DARADOES,CUTLASS SUPREMES OR GRAND PRIX'S FOLLOWING ME TO MY GRAVE....BUT HEY I LOVE BENSONHURST...I LOVE BROOKLYN..NOBODY IN BENSONHURST HAVE THAT TOUGH BROOKLYN ACCENT ANY MORE,WE USE TO TELL PEOPLES FROM THE OTHER BOROUGHS "DONT F#@K WITH BENSONHURST" .SOME HOW WE LEARNED THAT WHILE GROWING UP.I WILL ALWAYS HAVE A LOVE HATE THANG FOR BENSONHURST......THIS IS JUST FROM ONE HOOD TO THE OTHER,YOU KNOW HOW THAT GOES IN BROOKLYN. SO SINCE IM SO BROOKLYN IN THE HEART -HERE IT IS: FUCK BENSONHURST!!!!!!!!!LOVE E. FLATBUSH

Danny 'Lorp', The Elf, Bobby Pease, The Goat, Jody S, Keith ... all folks I attended Lafayette with in the early 1970's. Nice to see the names of some old friends. The middle stairway/bleacher crowd :-)

They let Paciello out of prison. He's in witness protection now, about to rat out some mob guys. Check out the article: http://www.nypost.com/seven/10022006/gossip/pagesix/a_bit_more_miami_vice_pagesix_.htm

Hey Big E, I have know idea what you are talking about. Lived in Bensonhurst my whole life, I am 39, that kind of stuff didnt happen unless you asked for it. Or maybe you didnt belong there at that time(1980's). Like I wouldnt be taking a walk through the Marboro projects back then. If we are on the same page, if you know what I mean, then you had to have a deathwish to be walking through those neighborhoods anyway, lol. All those areas were safe family residential neighborhoods where basically everybody knew each other. And we liked to keep it that way.

I remember the wrong number. Hung out there once in a while back in the 80's. When that place used to close, about 4am right across the street on the same side off the corner also was an unmarked storefront that used to be an after hours. When the wrong # closed anyone who was still there walked across the street. It was pretty nice inside, most after hours were pretty crappy. I was in there one night when they got raided. Undercover cops were just hanging out in the crowd, used to get pretty crowded, then all of a sudden they started pulling out badges and jumping over the counter. We all just booked out of there. I never really liked hanging out at the wrong #, I don't know why, I new people, I guess that was the problem. I used to like to go places where I didn't know many people. My father knew baldy well.

Anybody know when and how Billy Bright died?

The wrong number, baldy was pauly. I always got lucky there.

Anthony that was just it there wasnt anybody new there anymore.

Billy Bright, that name sounds familiar

100 Cropsey Park photos - old and new - http://good-times.webshots.com/album/243524416kgDpCL?start=0

g machine, thanks for posting your Cropsey Park shots. Great to see familiar faces. I often wished I had a camera back then. Gee the last time I saw Lorp was at a party in Bay Ridge. After HS I drifted over to the Bliss Park crowd. We had a storefront on 69th Street & Shore Road. Lorp & crew attended a few parties there.

Any hangout on Bath Ave & Bay 11 st? Do you remember the Bay 11 st boys?

Anyone remember a crowd that used to hang out in front of a Chinese restaurant on Stillwell ave and ave. S? Or on Kings hwy. and west 10th by the pizzeria in the 80's?

Anyone around from Boody in mid-60's? How about
SP classes? Lived near Ave. U and West 5th, and remember Carmella's pizza, Taverna's, stickball at P.S. 95, great Fezza's Italian bread, Carmine's candy store, Lady Moody square, buying evernescent pants in Ace high, and so much more!
Please post a message if you remember any of this or are a contemporary of mine. thanks

I hung out with Bay 16 boys. How old are u Mike?

Anyone from Bensonhurst that hung out mid to late 80's. Lived here my whole life, 39 years old, would love to bump into some old friends.

Anyone have any memories of hanging out on Bay Parkway in the late 70's and 80's? Yin Ting, Bay lounge, Seth low park, 71st street?/

I was a brooklyn girl my whole life until now Im in Jersey. I lived in Marine Park when you paid $5 to see Madonna at Fantasy Island. Or you would go next door to the LaMour Rock club to listen to the entire verson of America Pie. Until it closed when my friend Jinx aka Mike Jinkowski got stabbed. Then I moved on the 71st & 21st to become a regular at Plaza Suite & Pastels. Plaza Suite was a good memory it was above Horizons in Dance were I spent 20 years of my life and then onto become a solid gold dancer... Disco is not dead if it was we still wouldnt be having Disco Balls by KTU or a station 102.7 that plays disco hits all the time. Then there was Pastels a great club I met alot of wonderful people there that Im still in touch with. Spomoni Gardens for the pizza, Tanning on 86th street were else can you find a tanning bed for 2... And before this all was 2001 Odessey what can I say...

I have lived on Bay 1th and 86th for 30 years.
Who were the Bay 16th boys??

graduated Lafayette HS 1949. Does anyone know Lester Rubin about 74-77 and where he is now

i grew up in bensonhurst from the 60s till now. anyone remember our hangout on bay 41, the clam bar mcglynns candy store. anthony and sal barber shop. did anyone ever see the bronx tale that was my story in bensonhurst. we treated people with respect, when a lady walk down the street we moved out of the way for her, held doors for them, evryone was safe, kids were ouyt from 7am till 10 at night and those were the pre teens. we played stickball box baseball single double triple, stooopball, triangle, puchball ,hit the stick hit the nickle, and on and on. just give a a spaldeen and we were set for the day.yoyos, tops, skully, we all had a great youth, thanks to our hard working middle class parents and granparents. they are our real italian american heros god bless them, you will never see there likes again

Hey Tony u ever leave the block? In my Era Bay 11 was Joey DeMarco, Maragni Family, Robert Sica, Anthony Vish, Robert Tamarra, Michael DelMonica...need more names? all the bay street gangs were mostly on Bath Ave, only 86th St gang I remeber were the Louisianna Boys, My crew was Micheal (animal) Graziouso, Johnny the Greek, Sal (satch) Valenti, Robert Blasco, Raymond DiSchiavo, Gregory Albi....all in their late 40's and early 50's now...What u got?

Hey brooklyn girl, thats was my stomping ground I lived on 72nd and Bay Parkway hung out in Seth Low Park and school yard from 1965- 1976. How old are you? maybe we know each other or the same people.

Anthony, I WAS just starting to hang out on Bay PArkway/seth low park around 1978. Knew Savarese, Dorino, Ronnie, anthony...and all those guys. We later moved down to Yin Ting....we all hung out til the early to the mid 80's til most of us either moved on with our lives, went to jail or died from drugs or violence. In spite of that....we all had great times!

Louie C...yep, those were the times growing up in Brooklyn. It is a shame that our generation left. We were the ones who did not keep our roots in Brooklyn. We went off to Staten Island or NJ thinking we would have better lives for our kids. Now, I only wish my kids could go outside and play a game of stickball, johnny on the pony, sewer hockey, etc. Hey, i wish i could do something as simple as sending them to the corner deli to pick me a up a fresh mozzarella. Fat chance of that happenin in NJ!!! Oh how i miss those days!

Hey all,

Does anybody remember back when Son of Sam was in the neighborhood. I remember going by with my friends the next day and surveying the aftermath. My memory is foggy, but was 17th Ave. park (which is what we called it) the same as Seth Low park?

Ray, I hung with with guys named Joey Lamantia, Patty Carestia, Joe Cilento, Al and Anthony Gucciardo, to name a few. We ranged between 14-16 yrs old back in the mid to late 70's.

Brooklyn girl,
I moved to SI in 92 I stop hanging out around 81 did you know Reed Kozlin,Joey Mason,JoJo they lived on 71st they might be a little older then you but as far as I can remember they hung out at Ying Ting. The owner of Ying Ting was Ben he was pretty decent guy. Spend a lot of money eating there in those days. You can never replace those days, it was a blast.

Hey Carmine.
I live around Benson and Bay 14. Grew up here and still here. I'm a little younger then you, but Louie Carpino is still here and I am friends with him, i see him all the time! Still a great place to live...

Benson and Bath,

How old are you? I'm 44. I lived on 17th ave between Bath and Benson. Used to hang out in P.S. 163 schoolyard all the time. If you check out the post above you'll see the names of some of the guys I hung out with. Also, I remember the guys from Bay 16th. I think I remember Steven Schirripa, aka Bobby Bacala, as being one of them. We had a softball team named the Babootsna Bombers and Richie Schirripa was on our team.

My name is Vladmir Kochenko. I move here with my family from Russia in 1993 and bought house in Bensonhurst. We like verymuch. Like your people, we move here for better life. We work hard and bother no one. We keep to ourselves. Why everyone is angry with Russian people? We do nothing to you. We just live our lives. Maybe you all be better off if not worried about days gone by and worry more about the future of our neighborhood. Just wanted to have my say.

does anyone know lou from the expo rough touch football leahue on 14th ave in dyker bensonhurst in brooklyn i wanna get in touch with him cause i wanna put a team in the league this winter

Benson & Bath

It would be fantastic if you could say hello to him. You tell him that I'm Augusto's cusin, and of course tell him to check out this blog. Wow Louie.

I LEFT BENSONHURST BACK IN THE LATE 90'S HAVEN'T SEEN OR HEARD FROM ANYONE SINCE, MISS THE OLD DAYS, WHEN I WALKED OUT MY DOOR AND IN A MATTER OF MINUNTES I HAD AT LEAST 3 CONVERSTATIONS WITH DIFFERENT PEOPLE, WE WERE CLOSE KNIT, EVERONE KNEW EVERYONE SO WHERE DID WE ALL GO??? IS THERE ANYONE OUT THERE MY AGE FROM THE BAY STREETS, CROPSEY PARK, WEST STREETS, BATH AVE ????

WHAT UP ALL! AS you get older the nicknames tend to change. I was known as Joey blue eyes back in the day. (Yea that hugh grant bit off me big time) My famiglia still owns our old house in Bensonhurst and I still have family and friends there so I come by every chance I get. But it ain't the same anymore. Alot of people moved out of the neighborhood and you see so many knew faces! The only thing I have left are the memories. If I was granted 3 wishes (anything),
it would be to grow up in the old neighborhood with the same people. Wouldn't change a thing. We are the shit! One of a kind. I permanently moved to Westchester about 5 yrs now and people are very different. I don't know If I would ever go back to Bensonhurst because its changed.
But if it were the way it was then I would go back and live out the rest of my life until I died!

Hey bbg, how old are you? I've lived in the neighborhood my whole life also, I'm 39, but these guys go whey back. Where the hell is everyone from the early to mid 80's? Funhouse days!! Cruising 86th street, Feasts, hangouts on every corner, Romeo & Juliets, Pastels, Tj Bentlys, Plaza Suite, after hours, Manhatten Beach the next day!! Where the hell is everyone??

This site is really terrific! Did anyone hang out on 20th Ave between 65th St- 75th Streets?

COOL SITE! IM 23 YRS. OLD. I GREW UP IN BESONHURST ON 75ST, AND 15 AVE. I LIVED THERE FROM 4 YEARS OLD UNTIL LAST YR. MY APT. USED TO BE PART GAS STATION ABOUT 20 YRS. AGO. AND, ALSO ACROSS THE ST. USED TO BE A GAS STATION. I WORKED IN A PRETTY WELL KNOWN DELI ON 74ST AND 15 AVE. THAT HAS BEEN THERE FOR ABOUT A CENTURY. IT USED TO BE FIVE SONS MARKET, AND BEFORE THAT, I BELIEVE IT WAS AN ICE CREAM PARLOR. A LOT OF HISTORY THERE! GREAT NEIGHBORHOOD, GOOD PEOPLE, ALTHOUGH IT IS CHANGING NOW. I RECENTLY MOVED TO BAY RIDGE, AND I LIKE IT A LOT. BUT, BENSONHURST IS WHERE I GREW UP, AND I AM GLAD I GOT A CHANCE IN MY LIFE, TO BE APART OF THAT NEIGHBORHOOD.

Wow..This is bringing back so many memories..I am 29 years old and lived in the same house in Bensonhurst all my life, (79th St bet. 19th & 20th). I just moved to staten island and would give anything to move back to Brooklyn.. this site is making me feel so much better, i love reading everyone's stories. I went to New Utrecht HS. (class of '94). There is NOTHING like growing up in Brooklyn. Yeah its changed a bit, but you will never find anyplace better. I miss the sound of the trains, the no parking anywhere, Ceasar's Bay! the smell of sauce on a sunday morning and the line at Villabate's by 9am ... Those were the best years of my life. When people ask me where i live, I start off by saying i was born in Brooklyn and grew up in Bensonhurst... Its who I am, and will always be a part of me, always be no matter where I go or live...

I knew Reed but i am not sure which jo jo you are talking about. Yin Ting was the place to be back in the 80's. Ben was so tolerant of all of us hanging out but we gave him a lot of business. The best zombies in town!!! I miss those days!

HEY JOHN,

I'M 35 GREW UP BETWEEN BENSON AND BATH I LIVED THERE UP UNTIL AROUND 97, THEN I MOVED TO S.I, NOW IN JERSEY......ANYWAY LIVING INTHE NEIGHBORHOOD SO LONG I KNEW SO MANY PEOPLE, WHO DID U HANG OUT WITH? DO U REMEMBER LEE, LIL WILLY, THE VENEZIA BROTHERS???/..I CAN GO ON BUT THE LIST IS TO LONG

bbg, I knew a few people from Cropsey park, didn't really hang out there though. I used to hangout mostly on Kings hwy & west 9th st. by the pizzarea. Before that I hung out on Baypkwy & 62nd st. by Torres pizzarea, (now an antique store). Knew people from Ave. U and west 11th also west 5th & U. During the hayday (mid-80s) I was mostly on 86th st & 20th ave. parking lot. Thats where everone used to hangout before we went out. Those were some great times.

does anyone remember a German Bakery on the corner (or near the corner) of 86th Street and Bay Parkway in the 1950's called something like Schlumann-Deutch? I remember they had amazing charlotte russe and when my sister and I would go there with my grandmother, the woman behind the counter always gave us cookies!

John ,I am 38 & hung out for years on 20th ave & 86th st. across from the Benson theatre.Fyi the parking lot was on Bay 26th & 86th st(the photo mat)

Ray....did you work at the plumbing supply store i on 18 th ave & go to 201?

Hey Ray....Corner of Bay 16th....Remember you well.....Tried it for a while....Couldn't cut it....Went head to head with Raymond and got my butt kicked..(Boy was he tough)...Anyway...have a good one....You probably wont remember me, but we worked together at one point....Almost got mixed up in a riot at a Coney Island Bar...Glad you were there with me....

Thanks and stay well....

Camille... I owned the Ice Cream Parlor you were refering to and I could assure you...It hasn't been a century (lol)....

Thanks for the laugh though.....

Hey Bob...I was haniging out right up the block from 17th avenue park the day of the Son of Sam (at the gas station)...I remember it well....

Hey Brooklyn Girl...That is so funny...I say the same things to my kids almost everyday...I now live in Middletown NJ....

Hey John Doe...you live in Midletown....NJ?

Did you box Raymond D?

This is great allot of you guys are from the 80's and 90's era and still have fond memories of growing up in Bensonhurst. In my time compared to 20 years ago it was like a free for all. I'm 50 so I can go back a little further. My time starts around 1962. Everything good said about growing up here is an understatement. The 60's and 70's where great, the people, the summers, the winters, The Music! Picture this, TV had 6 channels B&W to boot, no computers, no video games, no A/C, just hanging out with each other like the crew from West Side Story. The things to do where endless, how some of you can single out certain things and happenings! It�s hard for me to begin. I can only imagine what it was like being a teenager in the 40's and 50's. But one thing did stick out in my mind�. The 4th of July's in Bensonhurst! What a show, every corner, every park, every school yard was a show! Cops didn�t care in those days those bastards had the best stuff! It was scary amazing. The fireworks started about two weeks before and ended about a week after. We used to look forward to the 4th like a kid did Christmas.

Ray D. is the guy I was refering to as one tough dude... We became good friends after our encounter...He moved to Florida and I have't seen him since.

Hey Tony.... I'm 50 as well....Lived on 18th and Shore....Hung out mostly on 16th and Shore

Joe,

I remeber all the fires you spoke about...You lft out APH (right accross from the fire department)...But the most tragic was the one on Bay 16th and Benson....My cousin Rosie lost his life in that one....Enough said...In tears as I am writting this...

How is Maryann (Mike's sister)...My sister and her were best friends....Watched her grow up...

To All...

Loved the web site....brought back alot of old memories...some good...some bad....

My thoughts...

Joe - In refernce to JAN'S ice cream parlor...You left out the Kitchen Sink

Carol - The older Perone brother was Anthony....Sister Gracie

Angelo - Clayton (enough said)

One more...

Ray...

Hope you read this....Got home and read some more of this web site and had you confused with someone else...Now I remember....Al brought back lots of memories...Especially Olivers bar...Him and my Dad used to drink in thier all the time and my Dad actullay hired him do do a job at the house...In which you helped (we are the same age)... Was confusing you with Vitto Neck for some reason...Do you still see Mike and Maryann...Tell Maryann I said hello....Without saying to much tell her Babbys brother....She will know who I am.

I saw Gregory a few years ago...Think he moved upstate...Unfortunatly it was at my cousin Rosies funeral... Has anyone heard from Raymond D.. Would like to reminise about that fight we had...I kind of figure by time I'm 70 he will be about 72 and we can have a rematch (lol)...He would probably kick my ass all over again.

Hope she dosen't read this, but my cousin Louise is still a reck.. I love her to death and wish I could be there for her, but I moved to Jersey and don't get there that often....Hope you figured out who this is and whenever you see her tell her I love her...

Thanks in advance

Hey Tony ...Yes that is me used to work there. Was best man a Mikey's wedding. John Doe ....lol I knew your sister, she was a real sweetheart she also hung with my siste sometimes. What's with the john Doe? u with the witness protetion program? U and Babby were 2 of the very few redheads in the neughborhood as I remember.I haven't been in touch with anyone from the old hood. I went back there after 20 years ans didn't get a chance to see Mikey saw Dolores and Louis. Talked to Robert Muller couple years back he wasn't as well known but I kinda took him under my wing he was sorta a nerd. Babby hung with Jounny the Greek's cousin I forget her name was it Julie? Haven't seen Maryanne when I left she was married to Sal Valenti (Satch) and your sister was married to Frankie or someone... he was doing time when I left. Hey u know Syteven Schrippa? I didn't realize who he was till recently imagine that ... The Sopranos who woulda thunk it

By the way Raymond D. wasn't a boxer he was a brawler. He had a funny habit when we were kids .. he would put his hand in your pocket in the winter while walking with u .We had a great fight when we were kids.. he bit me on the chest I bit him on the eye, he hit me with a bottle i hit him with a rock ,just another day in the hood

Ray....I am 30 years old and still live on Bay 16th between 86th and Benson.
I hung out with The Agostinos, Anthony, Jerry, and Lorenzo

Anthony Pigeon use to live on my block....

We use to play football on Benson Ave when it was a one way street.

I also rembember Willy who died in a motorcycle accident in 1992.

Ray...Forget all that gibberish above....cut and paste sucks...

... Thanks for giving it away....Boxer or not....I don't think Ray D. ever felt pain....Babby was married to Jimmy C... They both have died since.... (miss them both dearly). My nephew Joey C. looks and reminds me of his dad, my daughter reminds me of Babby (so I keep it alive). Still see Mr & Mrs. C...You know them, they used to own the beverage place on bath avenue. Jerildine C.'s husband owns Ponte Vecchio (think thats how it's spelt) in Bay Ridge. Just got remarried and having another baby (at 50...imagine that) Julie is Johnny Greeks sister...Cathy is married to (shoot...forgot his name)...Vito D...looks fantastic...his wife Stephanie never aged a day. I cant believe how much I let myself go....I knew Steve because I got into it with his friend Jerry over Mattie B. sister (we were kids), but I hurt him pretty bad and always regretted it. Not sure if you knew who he was, but he was Vincient Gardinias nephew....Sent a couple of rough people over the house...My dad nearly shit a pill (I wasn't home and spent the next few weeks in Florida...hmmm...wonder why?)

Do you play softball with the crew in the summer? I know everyone gets together a few times a year...Never have been able to make it.

See you soon.

I didn't know Babby passed away I'm sorry to hear that. What did she die from? I haven't lived in NY for over 20 years, and I have lost contact with everyone. i read thi site hoping someone would respond that knew the same folks and could fill me in. If u want my E Mail let me know and we can talk names and stuff in a more quiet mannner.

Tony I am 20 years older than u so not likely we'd know the same folks there was a pigeon guy on top of the Apt building where u live. he had a daughter and 2 sons I think.

Did anyine go to ps 229? does anyne remember a Franny Miccio?

Hey Bob and Carmine,
Yup, I see louie carpino all the time. And his brother adriano I'm 30, he's a few years older then me. I grew up here, so u might remember me as a young kid. I live on his block, across from the ps 163 schoolyard.
I was friends mostly with the guys on my block and on Bay 13 st.
I never knew Steve Shirippa, but my friend's uncles were best friends with him. Their names are John and Vito Capatorto.
My name is jack

Jack...did you know a eddie from bay 13th?

Does anyone remember a guy name Chicken from bay 16th?

Ray...

That would be great....Would you mind giving me your e-mail address... This is a great web site, but I don't want to say things the wold could hear...Lots to discuss...

Mike V.

I know your out there...How many times do I have to tell you....Leave your phone number when you call... You know me a long time (about 37 years now) and know I am not all there... I don't know your number to call you back... Call me with your number.

Jim I knew Frannie... he was a real troubled guy ran out onto Belt Pkwy and got killed.
Here is my E mail RCDGHTRS@aol.com

hey I'm sending this a half haour behind u John Doe.....Send me an E Mail I'll be here for a little while RCDGHTRS@aol.com

M,

I knew a guy (Joey L.) who lived on Bay 14th st. that we used to call Perdue.

I know Joe L. From Bay 14th... Never called him Perdue....Joey Demarcos cousine.

Ray

Your e-mail keeps bouncing back

I don't know why try smalle case letters but that shouldn't matter Rcdghtrs@aol.com

John Doe,

Lamantia was Joey's last name.

Hey M.
Yea i know eddie, you mean patsy's brother??
I rem the kid chicken too. But he was from about 18 years ago.

anyone remmember Bedrock bar on bath ave?

Ray...

Tried again and still bounced back... Tried to log onto an AOL account and am getting error messages from their mail server... Think AOL is funky.

Bob

Not the same Joe L.. The Joe L. I know (we still hang together going on 40 years) was always in 163 playing softball....He was Joey DeMarcos (RIP) cousine and had another gourgious cousine named Maryann...

M,

I remember Bedrock opening. I was getting a little older then...So didn't get to much of a chance to get their...I heard that Marty took over bartending their...Is that true....Is he still around?

WOW, YES, I REMEMBER THE 4TH OF JULYS WHEN I WAS YOUNGER. IM ONLY 23, BUT BACK IN THE LATE 80'S, THEY WOULD PUT SOME SHOW ON 73ST AND 15 AVE. THOSE GUYS FROM THE BAR WERE GREAT. TOO BAD THE BAR SHUT DOWN THIS YR. ACTUALLY, THE COPS SHUT IT DOWN...LOL.

not sure about Marty,,,,prior to Bedrock it was called the Magic Lantern...

Does anyone remenber the Farm....it was a clothing store next to the benson theatre

Did The farm clothing store sell all the named brand jeans like Sergio Valenti and Levis

John Doe send me yoru e mail and I'll try and send to u.Also Marty died a little while back. How did Joey DeMarco die?

John Doe what do u hear about Joey Dacovey or Tacovey... he hung with Tammarro and Frankie Yates I know Tamarrao died and Frankie Yates died when I was still in the hood

All this talk about Bensonhurst and noone mentioned B91 - WTF! bee-bee-bee bee-bee-bee bee-bee-bee-bee-bee ninety one duh duh duh rhythm of the city.......

I remember The Farm when it was still upstairs. Also the headshop One Above Two Below

Ray,,,,Tammaro is not dead...Joe Tekulve was shot..

Ray,,,is your last name the sound the same a s famous movie star...& did you go to 201...?

Ray

We can discuss Tammaro offline, but he is still alive living in Florida (very sick though)...Hope I get your e-mail to work. Tacovi (not sure how to spell his name either) died. Of course you know DeGrats died...Not sure about Frankie (but we will talk)....

M...

Does your last name start with a V and did you go to 201?

Joey DeMarco died of a brain aneurism (or maybe a tumor)...Sorry to hear about Marty...He was a great guy....I think we drove him absolutely crazy though... After a while, he started to worry about anyone of us going into Olivers.

Ray....

Problem is...both my e-mail addresses have my first and last name attached....I was going to create a temporary hotmail account...but that's screwed up as well....I think the Internet is finally falling apart...

Ray....

Finally....Try rcbklyn@hotmail.com

Wow, I completely forgot about the Bedrock. Used to go there alot when I got older. Everytime I hear Born to Be Alive by Patrick Hernandez I think of that place. Used to be my favorite song.

Does anyone remember a beautiful girl named Susan Jennifer...aka...susie Q,susie creamcheese. She hung out on Bay PArkway. Exotic looking with black hair! I heard she died in the Bay Lounge shooting heroin. Does anyone know if this is true??

P.S. Has anyone done a Google earth search of their former home? I just did one and boy did it bring back some memories. It's about time I went back and checked out the old neighborhood. Even though I am only an hour or so away, it sure seems like a lot further, if that makes any sense.
Something about not being able to go home again as the saying goes.

Bob, I've done Google Earth searches on several of the beautiful old homes that use to be in Bath Beach. Terrible shame how developers are destroying the look & charm this area had. I've written to Marty Golden who claims to love Brooklyn so much but you know how that goes.

I need help! I need to write an essay about my neighborhood (Bensonhurst), fifty years ago (1950�s). I need to know what have changed in Bensonhurst, and if these changes are good, or bad. I really appreciate your help. I have lived in this neighborhood only for 2 years. Thank you

Hi All,
Just got home from a trip to New York, My wife and i were celebrating our 34th. visited her old home in Queens and then drove into
Brooklyn to visit mine. First stop was to Lenny's for a slice and soda. It was great and brought back many memories, I remember when it just opened and dad would bring home pies after work and we would go to the roof and picnic on a blanket and listen to Buzzy practice his drum's next door.
also remember when His uncle Tony (Bennet) would visit and sing in the back yard to the family. This was in the 1950's and things were different then. 8645 20th ave was our address and 86th and 20 ave. was quiet then and safe for us to sit out all nite in the summers and have chess matches and tell bs stories until the sun came up.
I guess that I see many differences today, heard a lot of russian being spoken and the orientals are many but i still felt like i was home after 40 yrs away. I hope that all who are living there come to have the same feeling about the place that I have and wish all happiness.
remember that a neighborhood is what you make of it.
Joe

Hey bklyngirl, I remember Susan. Your right she was hot. I heard she was a gypsy. If we are talking about the same girl, she was short, with long dark hair. I hung out with her a few times before she started doing dope. I didn't know she died. Man, what a shame.

John Doe, how old was Joey DeMarco?

DENIS, I was reading this great board, must have missed your post back in September. You said you lived on Highlawn & west 13th, then on Kingshwy & west 9th. Hung out on Kingshwy by the pizzarea for years back in the 80's also knew pretty much everyone on Highlawn & Stillwell that used to hang out by the news stand. How old are you? We have to know each other.

John,

I think Joey D. was about 8 years older than me....That would have put him around 58. He hung with Johnny G. and Ciro. Haven't heard how Johnyy G. is, but Ciro is coaching a High School football team in Staten Island.

Ray...

Got your e-mail, but when I replied it bounced back again...Don't understand that at all... Is anyone else able to send you e-mails.

Ray..

For some reason it looks like you account is blocking incomming e-mails....

Angela,

I would venture to say that not much has changed except for the cultures. Instead of plaing Brisk on the corners they are playing Dominos. Instead of eating Pasta on Wednesday, they are eatting Chineese. Instead of speaking English (or Brooklyneese at least) and Italian, they are speaking Russian and Chineese... I think the spirit of Brooklyn will live on for many generations to come....Ten years from now, this website will be all Russian and Chineese and people will be saying...Remember when the neighborhood was all Russian and Chineese... Let's always remind them where it started and who made it a great place to live.

Don't know John I get all other E Mails must be your provider doesn't like aol

Jimmy, I remember hearing that one of the Calco's got killed is that true? If so how?

Ray.

Not sure myself, tried from two different providers...Comcast at home and Verizon at work. Seems like I am blocked from both places...Very strange.

Ray,

Sent two e-mails to the second account.... Seems like they went through....

Hey John and Ray....why dont the two of you meet up already!!! For cryin out loud...what's the issue....is it so hard to hook up???

John...Yep, that has to be the same girl. Gypsy! She had an older sister too...she killed herself jumping off her bldg. Susie was so gorgeous ...i thinking this girl should be a model! Tiny, petite, great body and face...but in the end a down and out junkie. So sad. I saw her in the 90's looking like a street bum.

B'klyn girl I soooo want u

Hey i grew up in Gravesend/Bensonhurst in the 90's and i'll always remember the good times on Van Sicklen Street.The Marrano's, Matthew Smith, Joe Trusty, The Falcon brothers, Dibenedetto's, Mckenna's, the Rubino's all the originals from the block. Most are still here but some left. It's not the same i miss the good old days.Waking up early in the morning for the block parties was my favorite, the football games, Romano's pizza and there's so much more. I wish i could go back and do it over.All the old timers who are now gone i miss the most.

Anybody hang out on the corner of West 12th and Ave T. I remember Mike Tro, Raymond B, Eddie Head ( who is now dead ), Tommy Z, Louie, Puleo, Buster, Diane & Freddy (married), Gina, Donna, Maria, Vicki, Cathy, John M, Anthony P, Frankie Patti, Augie, Frankie Cougar, and Phil DiBenedetto.

Ray ....is your last name the same as a famous actor? Did you work in the plumbing supply on 18th ave?

yeah jim that's me.

Jim
I was Friends with Franny miccio he was a good guy. Very troubled emotionally. He never started any trouble bu i remember one time in junior high a black guy took his sandwich from him and he went berserk. Beat the crap out of him with a food try. no one ever screwed with him again lol. U knoe he got killed on Belt Pkwy. right?

I grew up in besonhurst during the 50's and 60's. Lived on 69th st. between 18th and 19th ave. then 80th and 19th ave. What I remember is the food. No grocery stores . Just little Mom and Pop shops. Walking home from P.S. 205 and getting penny candies. The guys hanging out on the corners singing ..Jahn's on 86st. ordering a kitchen sink and all our friends diving in to eat it..New Utrecht High School. and Cookies the candy store. But most of all I remember my friends ..Back then a friend was a friend..

Hey, anyone hear from Michael Caruso of Bath Ave?

Anyone remember Neil's Pizzeria on 20 ave behind the bank(85-86 street).
*5 and 20 ave-Jaffe's Hardware(1960's)????

i remember mike caruso he was with the dancin machines.he had the black rivera with the phone and t.v. now i hear he hangs with alot of good fellas.... if you know what i mean

Jane Doe, who are you? I believe there are no good fellas. Your other info would be correct. Anyway you didn't answer question, were is he now?
He was always a good guy.

I know a Mike Caruso. He has a son too. He's in his 50's-60's I think. Are we speaking of the same guy? He is married to a woman named Connie?

I remember Neil's pizza.His wife wore house dress.Slices were a buck.He would give you one napkin & ask you if you wanted garlic(he never left the garlic out he had to do it himself)He also tied the pizza box with bakery string

Ray...

I didn't know Franie died...Sorry to hear that...He was a good guy....Knew his brother Mike very well.

Tony, West 12th & ave. T, I live around the corner West 10th between S & T my most of my life how old are you? I'm 39.

Camile, sorry wrong mike caruso this guy was younger

jane doe,
yes he was a dancin machine and had a rivera. do you know were he is now?

Ray...are you sure Franny Miccio was hit by a car?

I went to ps 229 with him.,,,,he wore leg braces when he was young....

Ray,
Do you hear from Maryann or Mikey any more? Greg A.? the greek?

Does anyone remember Lenny's Pizza on 86th street? There was a picture of Lenny with John Travolta (wearing a red chiana shirt!)from the days Saturday Night Fever was filmed there.

Jim
Where u from and how old are u?

Francesca Fallatutti, Of course I remember. The picture is still there. Unfortunately the way the neighborhood has changed I think only very few know who is in the picture, even less know about Saturday Night Fever. Sad.

Lennys had the best round pizza. Spumoni Gardens still has the best square..
Rock On!
Richie

Nah, Richie, I was never crazy about Spumoni Gardens. 20 years ago maybe. Now I dont think its even owned by Italians anymore. The resturant sucked. They didnt even have fresh mozzarella. It was just cheap to eat there. There hero were pretty good though.

I'LL ALWAYS LOVE BENSONHURST THOS ARE MY ROOTS AND NOW THAT IM 20 I WOULD NEVER LEAVE. IM COLOMBIAN AND ITALIAN BLOOD BELONGS HERE

I can't believe that picture is still there. I remember it plain as day from 30 years ago when it was first put up.

The Trading Post, Chiefs, Johns Deli, White Castle, the Butcher on Ave T bet W 12th & 13th, Joes Soda Shop on Stillwell & Ave T, A&P, Georgies on W 12th & Ave S, The Garage, Sals Deli, Angelos Bakery, Top Tomato, Pastosa's, United Skates, the Bowling Alley upstairs, Sunday Flea Markets, Carvel, L&B, Jahns, Hy Tulip, Vic Boffs, S&J Jeans, Chock Full-O-Nuts------------Late 70's to Mid 80's........

L&B was Lafayette's extension cafeteria for Italian kids. I think I spent more afternoons there than at school in the warmer months.

http://www.spumonigardens.com/

Forgot about Shady Park & The Benson Theatre.........Graduated Lafayette in '85

PG, Whats your first name. You mentioned 3 places that are right on my block. Everywhere else I am fimiliar with also. Used to cut school in the trading post. Bowled upstairs, worked in Top Tomato & Pastosa as a young teen. Dated a few girls & hung out at United Skates once in a while.
Joes Candy store on the corner ave. T, how the hell you remember that. I must have been 7. I could go on. Get back to me.

Hey John....

Good friend of mine owned Top Tomatos...Never heard of United Skates.....Was it always there? and Where?

Nellie Bly, Korvettes, Wetsons & that big oil tank they blew up..........

Roll-A-Rama, Leaders cards and gifts, Famous Cafeteria, Ye Olde Pancake House, Dyker Park, The Mangia Booth!, Hullabaloo, Concerts in the Park (Cropsey and Bay Pkwy), we used to sniff glue in the Golf Course! LOL. Why are we still alive?
Rock On!
Love
Richie

Anyone remember: The old man who lived in the WWII PT boat under the Cropsey Ave Bridge in Coney Island Creek, the little yellow submarine on the other side of the bridge was supposed to raise the Andradora, The Lowes Oriental Theater when it was a single theater, Rosie the counter Lady in the White Castles on Stilwell and 86th. The mini bike shop on Stillwell between Ave T and 86th.st. The Italian American gatherings in Cropsey Park.

Ray, I am 50.....my freinds know you from 201....do you remember a girl named Loretta? I think she worked at century

Does anyone know what ever happened to Jughead & Jalopy?

any Louisana girls out there?

Does anyone remember peck & billy from 17th ave park?

United Skates was where Roll a Rama used to be, 24th ave & 86th st. It was the whole first floor. Thats when there was a disco skateing craze back in the early mid-80's. It was a very short fad. United Skates was a chain they were all over.

Ray,

Do you remember Jughead?

John D,

who do you know at top Tomato?

did anyone see the filming of Saturday Night Fever on 86th street?

Jim
I remeber Jughead and Jalopy... Jalopy had an older brother who was the orginal Jalopy neither one could stay away from the Heroin. And Ifu are talking about the Loretta with the blonde hair yea I remeber her. What crew did u hang with?

Hi John Doe....It's me your cuz..I just found this website and I think it's great to read about everyone that was born and raised in Bensonhurst. I came across a few posts that brings back memories from the 70's and 80's. I am trying to figure out who you've been communicating with by the name of Ray D. Is he from 17th Ave and Bath??
To all that see this...I was part of the Bedrock crew back in the early 1980's. That was the bar "Where everyone knows your name." It was our neighborhood spot. Remember going out to clubs (The Penthouse...which then become Pastels), L'Amores and Plaza Suite and where did we all wind up, of course....Bedrock!!! I hung out with the girls from Bath Ave and 16th Ave. The best part of it is I Never lost contact with any of my friends. Some have moved out to LI, SI and Vegas. Even though we don't see each other often, we still get an opportunity to get together.
By the way...I'm still a Besonhurst girl!!!!! Things have changed but I still love it here.

PG and John - you have to be from my hangout where I grew up on West 12th and Ave T. I am 45.
Remember Joes Candy Store- He was a crab he was was nicer. The trading post and I still go to Johns Deli. Del Rio diner on West 13 and Kings Hway is still the same as it was 30 years ago. We also had our own softball team called YES. We played a team called the School Yard with guys from PS 97.

Brooklynlady
Did u know Anna Pisani? I don't remember a lot of the girls names from Bedrock but u all were hot! I hung with Bay 16 boys but went to bedrock it was a lot more active than Oliver's bar lol where I hung. If u know Anna tell me how whe's been

CARMINE.....I knew it was you when you mentioned everyones name. It's me, Pete.
The last I heard, you found work in Rome, or somewhere up north. Hope all is well and you're happy. It's rare that I see your cousin Augusto. But next time I see him, I will mention I found you.

I'm still here, where you last saw me. You know..

Keep in touch,
Pete

yes paula d now r mike c lives in s.i. i see him sometime i hear he hangs out with some good fellas mike was always a great guy i always knew them guys would like mike he has alot of balls kind of guy

Tony, Joes Candy store, I had to be around 8. I'm 40 now. You are a little older than me. Now it doesnt make a diffence but back then 5 years meant a whole differnt crew. There used to be crews everywhere on corners all over the neighborhood even during the winter. I dont remember any hangout on west 12 & T, west 12& S I remember by the deli.

I was born in brooklyn in 1958 and have great memories of living there. My father took me up to Benson Ave to Julie's candy store for an ice cream soda all the time while he was next door in Anthony's club playing cards.I met Big Paulie there and a bunch of the crew. Petie boxcars,Flip,Sally,Bobby,Joe C,and a bunch more. My cousin Joe and I would hit the Lowes theater and watch movies all day Saturday.Would hide in the theatre in between shows so the usher couldn't find us. My father was a great guy and i miss him more than you can imagine.Died in '95. He was known to his friends and the nieghborhood as "billy ears". Dad i miss you!
Haven't been back there in a while and probably never will visit in person...but i have my memories and they are worth more than anything.

John
Our hangout on West 12th and T was right next to the parking lot of the catering hall called the Chateau Gourmet. It is now a Jewish School. We had about 20-30 kids hanging out on that corner every night from 1974 - 1980. Both guys and girls. We would listen to the boom box radio and just hang out, smoke pot, or occassionally drink beer. There was a small hangout by the Deli on Ave S of younger kids.

Jane Doe, Do you know how I can reach him, Im an old friend..

Tony, Those were the best times. I dont see anyone hanging out anymore. I guess technology took its place. Internet, cellphones, & who knows what else. People used to call payphones on the corners where they hung out to see who was there. You see 1974 I was 7, but thats interesting because that doesnt look like a corner where so many would hang out. How long you living in the neighborhood?

Hey John Doe...You are all over this WEB SITE... lol. It's so funny how your cousin,My good friend found this web site.. I didnt forget about that favor you asked me a few weeks ago. I will talk to u about that another time.. But it's great seeing all these people responding to this web site.. Hi Ray .. I know who u are. And You know Me, But i will come back on when i have more time.. I lived on Bath Ave also across from Julies candy store. Some of my family is still. there. Take care everyone. Till next time.. Hi Lou...Talk to you later..lOUISIANA GIRLS ... I HUNG OUT WITH CAMMY FOR MANY YEARS, THERE WAS ALSO PAT, DENISE, DONNA ETC...

Hi Ray... you had asked about the Pisani Girls the two that I really knew are Caroline and Clara, the sisters of Anna. I really haven't seen them in a while really....since Bedrock Days.

YEA, THAT PICTURE IS STILL UP IN LENNY'S WITH JOHN TRAVOLTA..THERE PIZZA IS STILL THE BEST IN MY OPINION. I DEF. DO NOT LIKE SPUMONI GARDENS..THE RESTAURANT SUCKS..AND THE ONLY DECENT THING IS THE SQUARES. YOU GUYS SHOULD TRY AND POST UP SOME OLD PICS OF THE NEIGHBORHOOD..I WOULD LOVE TO SEE WHAT IT LOOKED LIKE 20-30 YRS AGO.

Hey Ray D..
Do you know how Sash is ? and Greg A is working in my building right now... Just for a few weeks.. How are u?

Hey Ray D..
Do you know how Sash is ? and Greg A is working in my building right now... Just for a few weeks.. How are u?

Whom ever M is, You seem to know people that i know from the neighborhood. But I Don't know who u are... Just M. And for John Doe, Bedrock is long gone... You should know that...

John

We hung out on the West 12th St side near Ave T. This was the parking lot to the wedding hall. Do you remember the wedding hall Chateu Gourmet. There were a bunch of trees planted by the parking lot side and as there were no houses there, no one complained that much, as it was a parking lot. When the crowd grew, we did get people that were afraid to walk there and once they called the West 10th St Boys who were older to get us off the corner. They actually did a drive by with a BB gun to scare us and took a few shots. Than we had some older guys talk to them and all was well.

Mary
Tell me something that will help me remember u. I can't place the name. Do u still live in Bensonhurst?

Tony, I do remember the Chateu Gourmet. It hasnt been that long that its a Jewish school, what 5,6 years? I also remember the parking lot. The west 10th street boys, west 10th and what? The did a drive by with a BB gun, LOL! I remember the BB guns, used to order them fromm the back of comic books.

Hi Alfred Rossmango, I never knew there was a pool room next to Jahns. Was it actually on 86th? Whenever I go up that way I try to name the stores as I remember them back in the 60's & 70's

mary D,

is John doe is your cousin?

Hi M
I lived right across from Julies candy store. I have 2 brothers And 2 sister's. John Doe is not my cousin... But, I know him very well. He is actually one of my best friend's cousin..I'm 47 now... Mary D

Hi Ray
Like i said before, I realized who u were from the first few lines you wrote... But i just wanted to inform you . All the Russo's are ok. But There younger sister was killed.JaneMarie ...Shame.. Audrey lived in S.I for a while. But recently moved... Louie is good seen him a while ago.. But haven't seen Susan in years.. How are you? Hiopefully you know who this is...

There was a pool hall on 86th but it was near Ebinger's bakery and it was downstairs. I lived on 86th and 20th from 1950-1965 then we moved to the Island, I went to St Mary's then to 128 then only 1 month to Lafayette then moved to L.I. Moved to Florida in 78 and it never felt like home and nothing has since Bensonhurst! I use to hang out on Bay 25th, Joey Tipa, Paul Alagna, Tony Rossmango and brother Alfred, Linda Collura, Betty Schoenfeld, Linda Mazzerella,Elaine Townsend, so many others, Linda Perrone Mousie sounds so familiar, Vicki Servente, wow names I haven't thought of in years, Fran Ferrera,I lived on the avenue upstairs from Maurice costume Jewlery store next to Margolis also. Bensonhurst will never be the same safe place it was back then, there was no danger for any of us it was a safe place to live and walk the streets any time of day or night because everyone knew us or our parents. Linda are you the one who use to scream and scare the pants off the old ladys or men walking down 86th st? Hey thanks everyone for the memories some are new some are old but they are still our memories of the good times in BENSONHURST.

Mary D.

Was JaneMarie Russo you mentioned the one that got kiiled in her apartment on Bay 17th?

Mary E Mail me at RCDGHTRS@aol.com John Doe had trouble with that address so if that doesn't work try PLMSKY@aol.com

Yes .She lived on 17th ave, she was the younger sister of the Russo's... Sweet kid...Peter where were you from???

Hi Ray
It wont go through with that email address. But can you let me know, if u r who i think u r... MD

Ray

I sent a email earlier. But, I guess it didn't go through.. There was BAY 16th And Junior bay 16th. George c. Sammy. Steven c. John s. Nicky s. And the girls... Babbie, annamarie l. Fudo's sister.. There were so many of us.. But let me know if you have a idea now... But, I was around longer than that... As we got older i knew and talked to all of you guys..Also went to Olivers bar..And Bedrock...

Mary,

I was born, raised and still live in Bath Beach. I remember watching the news when the killing happened and then the name and the picture they posted rang a bell. I was in her 5th grade class at PS 163. Never found out if they ever caught the person.

Mary
Now I remember u I was thinking of girls my age. When u said Jr. Bay 16th I remembered. If u See Louis Russo tell him I want to get in touch with Audrey or Susan. Hope ur doing well I was just back there last October after 22 years. Saw some old neighbors,,, Alm Plumbing. Didn't stay long my trip was limited for time. Plenty to ask u will have to figure a way to make a contact

Mary
If the other E Mail doesn't work you'll have to give me yours but John Doe was able to use the PLMSKY@aol.com... who knows maybe they're blocking anyone from this web site trying to make contact I can't figure any other reason I get mail from all else

John & Tony,
My name is Paul, will be 40, grew up on W13th bet S&T. I worked in L&B for a while and remember one guy from Top Tomato--Frankie Mount--and another guy who had a front tooth missing. It was open 24hrs--they worked late night. Went to Joes for fantastic Vanilla Egg Creams and buying those flimsy wood put together yourself airplanes that were propelled by a thick rubber band. I remember the Chateau Gourmet and knew a few people from W12th. Annmarie, Valerie, Emil, older brother Sal and John? Michelle, Judy & Connie. At a younger age, a 5yr difference is like another generation. I remember an "older" crowd that hung by the Trading Post. Went to Kindergarten with the son of Johns Deli, Roberto-- and we used to eat lunch in the back of the store--was 72'. Have lots more things I could write about--will save it for next time. Had a FANTASTIC childhood growing up there.......

Hi...anyone know people from West 5th & Ave. O? Many are dead now but there has to be a few alive. We hung out between 1976-1986'ish!!! Tony's Candy Store was on Ave. O, next to Boccia bakery (best bread then AND NOW) and Monte's is across the street!!!

Homestretch Bar?
Taeng Fong?
Yin Ting?
Johnny's Pizzeria on Ave. O?
Olympic Diner (71st st)
The Highway Theater (sneaking in every weekend to watch Satuday Night Fever, Slap Shot, etc. The Theater was packed with all of us)
Marboro Theatre...(same as above but now its the 80's)

Seth Low PArk...the green house and the pool!!!! HAH....jumpin the fence on a summer nite to go in the pool. You could smell the chlorine all over the neighborhood.

Harvey's...remember smelling the food all over the neighborhood around 12-3am??

Aww.....what good times....Brooklyn People are all the same....we share the same memories and no matter where we are...we always seems to find each other, right?

PG - Annemarie is my younger sister. Valerie was my neighbor and best freind, Frankie P sister. John was also one of my best friends and had an older brother Sal. I bought many of thos planes at Joes. Remember is comic book section.

John
The west 10th st boys were between Ave T & U and there were a couple between T & S. They did do a drive by with a BB gun. I got nailed in the back. It just stung. There was some big fat guy with curly hair. I forget his name. I think he sold fireworks from a garage on AVE T between west 12 and 13 street. Once we actually went to west 10th st with weapons (bats and chains= to help them as we heard a gang from Rockaway was coming to fight them. They never showed up ! LOL

Hey Ray
I was reading some of these emails. I just realized that you are not the Ray,I was thinking you were. You mentioned the Ray that i was thinking of in one of your emails.. You also mentioned Greg A.The Ray I was thinking of hung out with all those guys, Sal( sash, Joe Coss, Mikey Animal.I used to hang out with Mikey A sister Maryann. But, I haven't seen her in years.. I Think Dolores still runs the pluming bis... Which Ray are u..???.

Hey Ray
I was reading some of these emails. I just realized that you are not the Ray,I was thinking you were. You mentioned the Ray that i was thinking of in one of your emails.. You also mentioned Greg A.The Ray I was thinking of hung out with all those guys, Sal( sash, Joe Coss, Mikey Animal.I used to hang out with Mikey A sister Maryann. But, I haven't seen her in years.. I Think Dolores still runs the pluming bis... Which Ray are u..???.

Jane Doe, were did ya go? last entry dec. 4th.
I am curious whats Mike C. look like now? is he still cute? You mentioned you see him.

Paul, you live right around the corner from me, we are also the same age. I have to know you. I worked in Top Tomato and I had a chipped front tooth. You might be talking about me. I must have been around 16 when I worked there.

Does anyone remember Jimmie Walsh?

John Doe,

hey JD...do we know Mary D?

Ray

John Doe
kows me very well.. And if you are tall and thin. Then I just realized who u r too...
very few people r leaving last names... So i'm wondering what the reason is ? and some are using different first names... ??????

Ray

John Doe
kows me very well.. And if you are tall and thin. Then I just realized who u r too...
very few people r leaving last names... So i'm wondering what the reason is ? and some are using different first names... ??????

Mary
yes u have the right Ray now. Don't know why everyone is leaving disguised names. People just don't trust each otherlol. Not a big deal mostly everything u hear bout the internet is negative so no one wants their personal info on it. If I remember u I think u had a brother and a sister right? And u were th oldest. I went out with Joanne A on Bath ave. Also Dated Susan and Audrey both for a very short time. Hung with Tommy R and Louis was one of the younger guys so din't hang with him but knew him, well.How is Tom Louis's brother?

John,
I went to PS 97, Boody, Lafayette--graduated in '85.....I moved from W13th in '88... I think the tooth guy in Top Tomato was a few yrs older than me. Do you have an older brother Frank?
Paul

Tony,
Then I guess you have another sister, Angela? At the time married to Frank? They lived in the apartment across from me on W13th. I remember your Mom. Annmarie was friends with Alexis, who lived downstairs, and Valerie married Val. I used to play roller hockey on Ave T in front of the Chateau. Curious, would you or John remember anyones name from W13th?
Paul

Heres one........Anybody remember Pat & Albi?

PG,
Do you mean Albi as the last name? Because there is a Vinny and Gregory. Or Albi as the First
name??

BrooklynLady

Mary D,

My freind is good freinds with your brother Vito..

he did work on his house,,,

We should all meet on a certain date & time on Bath ave in the summer.......

Now how would I know about Bedrock Mary D....You never tell me anything. You send me a joke in an e-mail once in a while, and never reply to any of mine...How is MaryAnn P. doing...Just talking about her last night.

Ray...

Have not logged on in a while ...Busy at work...Will log onto my e-mails next....

Mary...

How is my cousine Louise V. doing....You still see her.

BrooklynLady....

You Louise V... My cousine?

First of all, Still not sure who M is...And John Doe Of course I see your cousin ,She is one of my oldest and closest friends.. FYI, Bedrock has been closed for about 20 years.. And, I never get emails from u, only the one about the job ... ( verizon) Well i have no problem . Yes M, My brother is Vito, Johnny, and two sisters.. We should all make a plan and meet this summer ... Sounds like a good idea..

Louise, Mary, Mike, Ray...

The problem with this web site is that if you havn't been on for a while you need to go all the way back to catch up...So I did....Slow day at work....

Here goes... Hey cuz.... Don't tell unc that I was in brooklyn yesterday...You know how upset they get when we dont stop by...Luv ya....talk to you soon...

Mary...Just return one of my e-mails....Begining to think your mad at me...How's Vito doing...you guys don't come to any of may parties anymore...Might be my last one since Jeannine is due in 6 weeks.... Imagine me being a dad again at 50.

Ray...I guess everyone knows who everyone is now...Except for the mysterious M......I know who he is as well, but I'll let you figure that out.

M...

Don't forget about our dinner plans before the holiday's...

Mary...

Every time you send me a joke (of course I realize that I am just one person on a long list of cc's) I repond to your e-mail. I have also invited you and your brother over every year...Again...no responce...I feel so not loved.

PG
I proably remember you. Most people remember me as Anthony and I was also called Pac. That is my sister Angela and I know Alexis. The W 13th st crowd was younger and my sister Annemarie knew them. You must remember Laura Gilly who died in 9 11.

Where do you think i live in the boone docks...of course I still see my friend Mary!!!! I get to see them more than I see you. :) And why are you still using John Doe??

LouiseV

Mary
Who do u see from big Bay16 I don't think any of the guys my age are computor literate lol. Except for John D. Jimmy (Neck) Conneccio, Johnny (the Greek)Thomas, I got Mikey Animal's phone number just spoke to him after 22 years. Joe (Kos)Karseboom, none of the Russo's, Sal (satch) Valenti, Joe (minnie) Amare, Frank hung with Ralph Incorvaia also he wasn't as old a Vinnie Albi, Gregory was our age and hung with us.... U remember the Playboy's? they were the big guys to us waaaayyyyy before your time lol. Robert Mueller was the thick glasses guy u may have been referring to also kinda nerdie (in our day u were a mook if u were lame)many little sub clicks in Bay 16 boys also but these were sorta the main guys that started Bay16 i was one of the origianls also...Oh Raymond Dischiava was who u had me mixed up with.Robert Blasco died while I still lived in B'klyn but was in the military when he passed away, I remember Robert Sica got killed on his motocycle on bath ave. Of course we had guys that came and went or were honorary members...Frankie Notch lost half his tongue in a fight with Bath Beach Boys, me and John Giambroni (older brother to Tony eyes) had an ongoing fued because i dated his ex girlfriend, Remember Joanne Abbato she lived on bath ave above store front across from the old grocery store ( was it A&P?)Oh Remember Johnny Black & brothers Billy and Junior? Vito Frankovillie however u spell it Robert Blaso's cousin was a good pitcher for Lafayette ... whew! enough for now lol

Louise...Cuz...

You know where I work and what I do....I can't, as much as I would like to, use my name on the site...Not that I am saying anything bad, but you never know what might come out of someone's mouth...

When is unc going to Arizona??? I would like to take the trip in to see him before the holidays...Wanna get together in two weeks??? I think my son has the hots for their new tenant....you know that's where Ray lives now...I told him the next time I'm out we need to hook up....When are you going out....

JUGHEAD AND JALOPY!!! Holy Mackeral! I haven't heard those names in 35 years. I used to play softball w/Johnny (Jughead) Tambone every weekend in 229, he lived right next to the schoolyard with his HOT sister! I haven't heard of him in years. Jalopy (the younger one) was my best friend for a few years when the Mangia Booth was around on 13th Ave and 86th st. I would love to see either one! I hope the are still vertical!
Richie

Great site you guys have here. Does anyone know the Ocera family? Thanks. Also, Benny Recca(sp)?

yes paula d now r i dont come on all the time, i do work.. yes mike looks very good time was very good to him lol yes i do see him how do you know mike

Jane Doe, I work to but I get bored. lol lol I dated him, and you?

PG,
Yes, of course I remember Pat & Albi. Hung out with Albi a few time just before he died. Paul, I know 2 Pauls. You have to give me a little more info. on that one. But I have to know you. We are the same age. I went to Boody for 1 year, 9th grade. I think my homeroom teacher was Mrs. Hamburg. But then I also went to Lafayette for 1 year.

Hi drobyn, there was a pool room there some where it was downstairs,i remember falling down stairs a few times instead of walking.Someone here said it was up the block from where i said it was????Anyway when you go back let me know what still is left if anything.

Still looking for Lester Rubin, Was a redhead in 1949. Does anyone remember hin

Does anyone know what happened to the Hollywood Terrace? I got married there 20 years ago and someone told me it is gone???

Yes, I remember Pat and Albi. They had a sister too. I beleive one of them or both are dead! Gee, that is not surprising... is it?? They were NUTS!!!

Bklyngirl, are you talking about Ocera or another post?

Just wanted to tell everyone THATTHEY ARE CLOSING LAFAYETTE HIGH SCHOOL. It was on the news this morning and is deffinite.

Just wanted to tell everyone THAT THEY ARE CLOSING LAFAYETTE HIGH SCHOOL. It was on the news this morning and is deffinite.

PG,
I went to Boody for the 9th grade only. We are the same age, I have to know you. Yes, I do remember Pat & Albi. I hung out with Albi a few times just before he died.

John Doe -Ray

It's not that your not loved anymore.When you have your Party, We have parties the same time. So Its hard, Promise next year we will try to come..And we should try to meet after the Holiday's Just checking in with you guy's.. Lou see u Friday... real busy...

Wasn't sure I could post the link....but this is the news story on lafayette closing.

http://www.nytimes.com/2006/12/12/nyregion/12school.html?_r=1&oref=slogin

Graduated Lafayette in 74. Had its problems back then too but overall a great experience. I had art teachers that my college professors couldn't hold a candle to and made friends I'll never forget

Tony,
Laura is/was my sister. There is a street sign with her name on the corner of W13th ST on Ave T.

PG

John,
I finished Boody in '82. Im sure we crossed paths a few times on 12th/13th St.......
Brooklyngirl,
Went to PS 97 with Albi, was his first name--he was a bit older than me--when I was in kindergarten he was ALWAYS in trouble. I remember the scar he had on the corner of his mouth up to his cheek. I think Pat and he were cousins? Not sure how Abli died, but I think Pat was shot on 20th Ave near 86th St.

Shorehaven, Cropsey Park!!!!! Where are you all?

Ray

I remember you well. I was reading some of your post.. Joey Lomanaco, siter Diane were good friends of mine. Greg Albi was working in my building for a while, We wk for Verizon. also I'm still wondering who m is... they Know my brother, But won't say who they are. I knew and still see most of those guy's you mentioned. I see Johnny Black everytime i go to see my mom in the neighborhood,,, Hes always on Bath Ave. He's doing good.. Your last name starts with a c...You were a funny guy... Mary D

Ray

I remember you well. I was reading some of your post.. Joey Lomanaco, siter Diane were good friends of mine. Greg Albi was working in my building for a while, We wk for Verizon. also I'm still wondering who m is... they Know my brother, But won't say who they are. I knew and still see most of those guy's you mentioned. I see Johnny Black everytime i go to see my mom in the neighborhood,,, Hes always on Bath Ave. He's doing good.. Your last name starts with a c...You were a funny guy... Mary D

Sorry about the double posting. Sometimes,I have problems with my computer..

Ray
Is M one of the Amari Brothers.?

Mary
I don't know who M is on here. I don't try and figure it out, if they wanna remain anonymous more power to them.What does Greg do? I thought he moved to upstate someone told me. U got kids? Married? Still beautiful? U Remeber the Berger's? Paulie , Linda, the one sister who had Joe Bird's baby ... Remeber Rosilee? she also had a kid from Joe Bird

Ray ... did you play piano by any chance? Knew the late Carl B?

PG
Sorry about your sister Laura. I remember her when she stayed with my younger sister Annemarie and her freind Alexis. She was over my house on 12th st often. She was a cute, quiet, little red head girl. You lived in the same house on 13th st with my sister Angela and Alexis with her mother and father Al who are now divorced.

Donna
yes I play piano and I didn't know Carl B died . how did he die?

Ray, the last time I saw you ... I was walking along Dyker Park very late & you and Carl gave me a ride home in his VW. It had been a bad night and I was so happy to see people I knew. Carl was killed Sept 11, 2001. He was a fireman. Married Christine and lived in SI

Donna

r u talking about the Carl that owns the resturant, Carl Vincents, In Staten Island. He was good friends with my brother... My brother is always at the resturant. A bunch of people are going Saturday night ... I just sounds like the same Carl,

Ray
I'm not married.I was asked to get married twice actually, But Im not married. No Kids. But I love kids, But don't have any of my own.I have plenty of nieces and nephews. And Godchildern..
Well talk to you guys again soon...

Hi Mary,
I don't know if it is. Here is a link and if you Google the name more info will come up:

http://www.nyc.gov/html/fdny/html/memorial/wtc/bini_carl_ff_res005.shtml

Donna
I been out of NY for 22 years and didn't keep in touch. I saw the page with Carl but it didn't have any other info. Like how he died, If he was married, kids. etc. Did u know his father was a cop? He had a sister(older)named Rosemarie. Do u want to e mail me and we can talk more? I woudl liek to get filled in on all the stuff I've missed
Mary
I remember u were very pretty...lol and u didn't answer that question. lets E Mail and get a little group going on here of us guys who have ties to the area we grew up in.

Hi, Is this Mary D from bath ave,, because if it is wow id like to know because i hung out with u,, do u have 2 sisters and brother maybe 2 and i loved your mom we had the same name.,, let me know

Hey bklyngirl,

I used to work in the green house in Seth Low Park for years, between 1969 and 1973. I prob. sold you hot dogs, sunny boys and bagle pretzels with mustard. I was in the pool at night too! I was at the pool 4th of July night 1973 when crazy Howie threw a hand grenade in the pool and blew a hole in it the size of a basketball. Yes the good ole days. My hangout was Seth Low Park 1965-1975

Ray, My Dad was NYPD too. You might recognize his name when you hear it. You can write: drobyn68@yahoo.com

donna

Growing up in bklyn it was a trade Mark,,, I remember walking the streets and it was safe,, hanging out on bath ave. It was one big Family.Going to clubs when we were like 12,I was living out of the area for a while,but just moved to jersey.I have been shopping on 86th st yes it has changed but the memories are still there.Something Else is there thats all I care about lol... My kids love it even though it has changed they hear me talking all the time about it and thats what they see, also the memories.I hear all these names mentioned on here and its giving me the the goose bumps.I remember when I went to dyker we were the bath ave girls and then we finally met up with the 13 th ave girls,and then the riots came how many remember that.And the black out in 77 me and my girlfriend whom i wont mention were on kings highway for the first time and she just got her licence and we were lost I would releave brooklyn all over again.Any1 remember the Bed Rock.How about Stacys car service hahaha.Its a shame about what happend to Lafayette.You could cut out back then and get away with it.i think i was more at New Utrecht all my friends went there.Also when Son Of Sam struck right on my block it was unreal all the cars coming down my st it felt like 86th ,not that, that was a good thing but that sticks in my head.I recenly ran into annamarie L in bistros a couple of weeks ago heard they had a reunion there, wish i could have been there. The best was Vegas Diner also at 4 in the morning we all looked like crap.Well I can go on and on just wanted to try and maybe get in touch with the crew from back in the day and this web site is great.

Does anyone remember Ermilios Deli on bath ave & 16ave?

wait does any1 remember tony that had the record store on 86th st and the prisim where seamans was.

ABOVE MEANT TO SAY lAND MARK

EMILIOS DELI????

How long ago was that???
There use to be Kevins Deli on the corner of Bath and 16th, which is now koreans. then a few doors down use to be another Deli. Wife and husband use to run it. Think we use to call it "chickies". Then on the opposite corner there was and still is a pharmacy. The other corner had a meat market(which we all know was a front) and now it's an Italian deli. Finally opposite that corner is a barber shop that use to be a unisex hairstylist.
I can't remember emilios.

M.

Call me....Let's go to Enzo's tonight (or tomorrow)

Bath Ave Girl...

Did you live on the same block as 17th Avenue Park and did your father own a dry-cleaners? Where in NJ...Me too.

Donna....

Did you and your dad play paddle ball every Sunday in 17th Avenue Park....

JOHN DOE,, i Lived on bay 17 th between shore and cropsey the bayview gardens ,,17 th park was right around the corner,and no my dad didnt own a cleaners,, i wish hahahha.Do I know u how old are u

Im curious now,,who is M

Bath Ave Girl

Sorry to say I just turned 50 this year....You lived right around the corner from me...I lived on 18th Ave between Shore and Cropsey...If you know Mary, you probably know my sister Babbie..

John Doe,,

Ok im 47 were all getting up there if were talking about bklyn lol.yes i knew ur sister omg how is she.what part of jersey are ,I'm monmouth county in between marlboro and manalpan

My sister died about 7 years ago... I live in Monmouth county as well....Middletown.....

JOHN doe.

I Am so sorry.

It feel's like a lifetime ago...Anyway..Not sure who you are, but my e-mail address is rcbklyn@hotmail.com

John Doe.

I emailed you

John Doe, No, I've only been in 17 Ave Park a handful of times. I hung out with a girl named Rosalie R, I'd go over with her sometimes. Bay 8th & Dyker Parks were more within my territory.
-donna

paula d now r i went out with mike and sorry to say we broke up i wish we never did but what can you do it happen mike is doing well for himself he hangs with alot of good fella and they love mike and i knew they would he is a guy that veryone like lol i guess you know that if you dated him mike stays at a store in s.i. on the weekends with them guys guess u can go there to see him well i have to go xmas shopping have a happy holiday

Does anybody remember Babootsna on the corner of Bay 14th and Bath, I think? Ed and Kathy Conticelli used to run the place. I guess you could say it was a head shop. They sponsored our softball team, the Babootsna Bombers.

Whats up guys i grew up in gravesend on East 4th st btwn ave U and ave T, Lived there all my life, my whole 21 years untill now. I went to p.s 215, Boody JHS, Lincoln HS,Thomas Askins HS, And Sheepshead Bay HS. Yeah i was one of 'Those' Kidz, I Chilled on Ave U (West And East) Ave S,Bay 46th And Bath, 52, MP, Bergen Beach... you name it i grew up there and know at least 20 people from that area. Im glad i found this site because im startin to miss not livin in brooklyn and this is giving me memories...well my fam still lives over there...theyre like the only italians left on the block, serian jews took over the side of our neighborhood and now theyre trying to buy my grandmother out. i dunno but whatever. Right now i am stationed on a coast guard ship up in new hampshire and im currently at sea on this long ass 2 month patroll. ill be back in brooklyn dec 23rd but that dosent feel like its soon enough. i miss the OLD neighborhood back in the late 80's early 90's when italians ruled the neighborhood, we shot fireworks on Ave u, had block parties, BBQ's The Kids were all out playin Baseball Ect Ect...
Now im stuck up here with these hicks, nothing to do but look at a bunch of mountains and trees and get drunk. well anyway if anyone was class of 99 from boody or anywhere close get back to me.

ANTTTT

Hi David,Posted twice and do not see them anywhere???????AL Rossmango

Danny 'The Lorp'

U speak of johnny Quinto Did he have a sister diane ...

Hi Jane Doe, Thanks for the info, but can you tell me a location I'm not familiar with SI. Do you know if he is married? Do you want my email so we can chat about the old times? Anyway I wish you and your family Happy Holidays.

Ray, you have restrictions set on your e-mail that won't accept from me until you re-set it or enter that I'm someone you know and will receive mail from. Go to your 'Mail Preferences' or 'Parental Controls' to see exactly what is preventing it from going through. You might just have it set to recieve mail only from AOL Users?
-donna (drobyn)

Danny the Lorp .. you have resurfaced. We attended Lafayette together. Grad `74. I was buddies with Jeanette from 10 Ave. Saw pictures of you that someone here posted on a photo site. Nice to see all those shots of the Cropsey Park crowd
-donna

Anybody remember the Del Rio Diner. After the disco it was to Del Rio for breakfast. The place has not changed in 30 years.
I have a picture if anytone wants to see. I am not sure how to post the picture

Hi...anyone know people from West 5th & Ave. O? Many are dead now but there has to be a few alive. We hung out between 1976-1986'ish!!! Tony's Candy Store was on Ave. O, next to Boccia bakery (best bread then AND NOW) and Monte's is across the street!!!
Posted by: bklyngirl at December 6, 2006 09:05 PM

Anthony Orapallo RIP. What's your initials brooklyngirl? I definitelly know you.
Pat and Albee were brothers, I forget their last name. Pat was shot and killed on W. 7th near P.
Albee, a good heart who I tried to take care of when I bounced at United Skates, was shot and killed on 86 and 20.

Donna
I have corrected the problem with my E Mail. Mary and John u guys can send now lol. Thx Donna I didn't think of looking there because i never set it up manually must have been default settings :)

OK, I used to hang out in Dyker Park, The Mangia Booth and the corner of 14th ave and 86th street in Pauls candy store from 1966 till 1973. Friends were Paul Mandile R.I.P. his brother Kenny, Pic the cop, Danny and Pamp, Vinny Albi (rats)R.I.P., Richie Refano, Carl Tocci, Gerald Caruanna, Tony Guinta R.I.P., Eugene Radicello (in FLorida), Robert Montalbano (little Jalopy), Kathy Karpinski, Joyce Emmons, Bobby Ardigo, Paulie glue, Cliff Galbo, CLiff Berkley, Charlie Locicero, his brother Foota, sister Donna, A guy named George (who had long hair before any of us). Any idea where they are now???

Tony,
Yes, I remember Del Rio. Still eat there sometimes. I only live about 5 blocks away. Your right that place still hasn't changed since it was built, besides the extention they added a while ago. Yeah, I remember going there on our way home after going out. It used to look like an after hours. I don't know, I wasn't going there to eat, who could think about food at 4am after a whole night of drinking. Just used to hang out and maybe have a cup of coffee. Those were good times, early to mid 80's. No offence people, I am 40 but it seems that most people on this board are to old or to young to have appreciated those years. I think its only you, PG, and myself from thats from around that time.

Richie M.
How did Vinnie Albi die? I didn't know. I hung out with him when he was hanging at Red's candy store on 86th and 17th ave. Hung with little jalopy also later in years we moved to Oliver's bar when we no longer had the candy store. Most of us became Bay16 boys i was closer to Vinnie's brother Gregory's age but started out as the little guys from that candy store with Joe Amato, Dennis (Red) forgot last name Gary Hendricks....can't hink of any other right now

I went to Del Rio the other morning..I dont know if anyone remembers that resturant on 86st..Richi Lou's..they closed down. And Petrina on 86st..they closed that one down as well.

Ray...

Don't remember the first e-mail address you gave me....Why don't you e-mail me from that address and I will reply.

Donna...

Good call on Ray's account...I used to hang out at bay 8th street park as well...Played basketball with Jack Mooney and crew...Spent lot's of time on thier paddle ball courts. Was in love with Susan who lived accross the street from the park.

Brooklygirl...

Are you still there....Get in touch with me...

I'm still here....a little busy with work and Christmas shopping for useless stuff. I'm back in Brooklyn on the Eve!! Was just there on Sunday...took my kids to see the decorations in Dyker Heights....HOLY SHIT....they are still amazing and the homes are magnificent!! Oh well, Vee, i hung out on Ave O from 1977-80's...also on Bay Parkway. RIP Anthony....he died in Oct 77...the Yankees were on TV (World Series) and i remember that night so clear. You know who died about a year ago...Joey Grillo. Remember him?? Oh well, it is sad ...so many are gone. Anyway, i am in my early 40's , don't know if we are in the same age bracket. Happy Holidays.

Holy S*** Joey Grillo passed? Wow, knew him, his brother John and sister Martha well. Joe's girl Diane. Also, Bobby V., Tommy B. from W.5th Anthony Deleo, Demarie, Joe Lombardo, Steeba, etc. What's your first initial?

Rich, Gee I forgot about the Locicero's. I went to 229 with Donna. Cliffy Galbo dated Dr. Purpura's niece .... was her name Joanie? George with teh long hair was Georgie Daglish. He lived way down Bay 8th. The Mandile's? Did they own a bike shop?

Hi drobyn,answered your post from dec.5th.but somewhere along line wasn't shown.Anyway there was a pool room on 86th st,i still think was downstairs next to Jahn's someone here say it was down the block.Memory fuzzy from that time,maybe someone can help out.Al R

Thanks, Al R ... I must have been too young to notice the pool hall. Going to Jahn's with my Mom was a very big deal back in the day. Miss that place. When I was in Lafayette I took film making with Arthur Cohen and have a reel of Super 8 somewhere that I shot out a car window .. Must of been 1973 or so. The old projector I have is 8MM so it won't play Super 8 -- I forget , something about the sprockets. I'd really love to take a look at the film though just to see the stores and people I caught passing by
-donna

Vee, How did Joe Grillo die? Did his brother John hang out on Kingshwy? Joe Lombardo, I forget he used to live with his mother on one of the west streets between O & P I think. If we are talking aout the same guy I would love to see that guy again. We hung out alot. Was he tall and going bald?

I see Joanie Purpura all the time, she is Joanie Matland and she is a X-Ray techie with her husband on S.I. Our gilrs went to school together. Funny, my wife (from Greenwich Ct.) used to meet people after we were married and living in Bensonhurst, that I grew up with! She would show them my pix, and they would say "I know him!"..LOL. She met 3 friends that way, Joan was one of them. No, the Mandiles I knew were not part of the bike shop on Bath Ave,

Hmmm...I'm leery about giving my initial. We definetly knew the same people. If you were a regular on 5th and O....at that time...well, then we know each other. Did you know DiLeo and DiMarie are both dead? I know steeba died years ago! Who the hell is left? Brooklynites always have unlisted phone numbers so does it surprise you that all of us are under aliase's on this site.....HAHAHAHAHHA

Can I ask how old the people who have died were?

For a bunch of us who are in their late 30's early 40's, that's kinda young to pass away of natural causes.

They all died of drug overdose or after years and years of abuse, they either had HIV or other ailments related to drug use. They ranged in age, some in their 30's, some in 40's

Yes Al the Pool Hall was downstairs on the same block as Ebingers Bakery, Jahn's was across the street where the old F.W. Woolworths was, my Dad use to go there and I use to watch him walk down the stairs, but now this was back in 1962-65 and some of these kids are not as old as we are! I was born on 86th st and 20th ave just up the street from the Benson Movie which I have been told has not been there in years, like I said before I left Bklyn in 65 but my memories of it are from that time and I only know what I hear and I would not want to live there now because of all the change to our nice neighborhood.

That is true about people of those ages dying. My Aunt was only 49 she died of AIDS. She was a serious drug user. She hung out at the Knights of Columbus alot I think it was on bath Ave. Her name was Diane.

yes paula d now r mike is married he has two beautiful kids andhe stays off of victory blvd i guessing you are tring to find out who i am lol not yet

Jane Doe, Ok thanks I know were you are talking about. I will have to check it out next time I'm in SI. So when are you going to tell me who you are? Do you have a clue who I am?

Paula, everyone in the neighborhood knows who you are. Especially the guys.

Jane Doe, Since we were having a nice chat before I will believe that, that last response was not from you. Besides if this is who I think it is you would have not made that comment.

Paula, it was a joke, relax.

Anyone remember these names; Junior from West 13th St, Eddie School Yard from PS 97, Joey Head from West 9th St, Mike Blondie from West 10th St,
Mike Tro from West 12th St, Gina, Diane, Donna, from West 12th St, Frankie Patti West 12th St.

Merry Christmas to all!
Thank You Mike for allowing us all to use your web site as a discussion forum

Ray I agree,,
Merry Christams to everyone!!

Hi Ray..

I was reading all the posts, My grandmother and aunt lived on bay 14th i dont know if u know my cousin Linda Mantioni and her friends Barbara and Maryann lived also there.My sister was Marie she married Louie Liotta,but now divorced.I rememeber going to bonos on the corner getting gum for a penny lol. and she had harldly and teeth in her mouth hahha and do u also know michelle Virgo i aso was very good friends with them and her brother carl i think hes gone not sure ,,, and a guy named brian that use to play the guitar .you spoke of alot of guys i knew up on top and the 1 name u mentioned was micheal d , iwas very good friends with his sister, maybe i know you rsvp back,IM 47 .

Hi Ray..

I was reading all the posts, My grandmother and aunt lived on bay 14th i dont know if u know my cousin Linda Mantioni and her friends Barbara and Maryann lived also there.My sister was Marie she married Louie Liotta,but now divorced.I rememeber going to bonos on the corner getting gum for a penny lol. and she had harldly any teeth in her mouth hahha and do u also know michelle Virgo i aso was very good friends with them and her brother carl i think hes gone not sure ,,, and a guy named brian that use to play the guitar .you spoke of alot of guys i knew up on top and the 1 name u mentioned was micheal d , iwas very good friends with his sister, maybe i know you rsvp back,IM 47 .

I hope everyone has a Happy Holiday...Cus(brooklynlady)...I was hoping to get in touch with you....I am going to try to make it into brooklyn tomorrow....Hope we can hook up...Luv Ya.

Bath Ave Girl
So funny u remember Bono's the old man always had a cigar in his mouth and spit would run down it. They also had a daughter Josie she was a very angry lady. Carl was Michele Virgo's cousin they all lived in the same 4 family house. Tell me more about you and the friends u knew I am 50 so u know we didn't pay much attention the the younger kids back when we were kids and "too cool" lol.

Bath Ave Girl
Hey I just realized u would then know my sister because she is your age. E Mail me and we can share info RCDGHTRS@aol.com

Hey everyone, love hearing about the old neighborhood. I grew up on 17th between Bath and Benson, I'm 42. I remember all the place that everyone is mentioning. Glad to hear people still have such good memories of Bklyn. I know that it has changed alot and I'm kind of scared to go and see it. Too much disappointment. I would like to remember it the way it was. Anyone from my era and neighborhood?

Vee, How did Joe Grillo die? Did his brother John hang out on Kingshwy? Joe Lombardo, I forget he used to live with his mother on one of the west streets between O & P I think. If we are talking aout the same guy I would love to see that guy again. We hung out alot. Was he tall and going bald?
Posted by: John at December 19, 2006 11:23 AM

bklyngirl posted about JG's death. I'd like to know myself. His brother did hang out on KH. That's the Joe Lombardo I was talking about. didn't hear too many good things about him after that girl Donna broke up with him.
It's tough to hear about all these folks dying. I guess i stopped the shenanigans when I should have.

Hi Donna,,

dont be scared to go back look beyond the changes and just remember the memories they are still there.I go back and love it despit the changes i go into some stores and talk to people about the neighborhood.I go there and tell my kids where i hung out they love hearing the stories,, but anyway you have a merry christmas.

Who's still living in the area? has anyone seen or heard from Pat R or her best friend Louise v? I know they were also close with Donna P and mary Lou. I know they were from bath ave.

Hi ray,, Yes now i remember carl was her cousin,I use to make fun at my mother when she would say my name before mine shed go down the list of every family memeber before she got to mine hahahhha,, and the father at bonos yes he was scary i use to be afraid of him lol. and you were all older but if there was ever a problem in the neighborhood u would all be there and protect us for sure .

Vee,
Did you hang out on Kingshwy.? If you did when, early to mid 80's?

MY BAD!!!! VINNY ALBI IS ALIVE AND WELL AND LIVING IN SEAGATE!!
rm

J Grillo died of a massive heart attack, 2 yrs ago at the Homestretch Bar on Kings Highway. Joey Lombardo?? Can he possibly still be alive...i wonder if he turned his life around. Last i heard, a junkie and goin to jail but that was many years ago. Oh well, Merry to all and a good 2007. As happy as the memories are, we have to give thanks for all the good things we have now!

Bath Beach girl

Pat R, Is now Pat B, ONE OF MY BEST FRIENDS,ALONG WITH lOU V. AND Marylou. WE ALL STILL SEE EACH OTHER OFTEN..THEY ARE ALL DOING GREAT...

Bath Beach girl

Pat R, Is now Pat B, ONE OF MY BEST FRIENDS,ALONG WITH lOU V. AND Marylou. WE ALL STILL SEE EACH OTHER OFTEN..THEY ARE ALL DOING GREAT...

BATH AVE GIRL & Ray
I am the MARY D from bath ave. Yes, I do have 2 brother and two sisters. And my moms name was Geri... My house, was the house everyone hung out at. My mom is selling her house now. BUt still lives there. I bought a house in Staten Island 4 years ago. But i'm not sure who you r. I have one friend with the same name as my mom. We email each oter now and then. But i don't remember another friend with the same name as my mom. Give me some hints to who u r.
Mary D

Ray
Been busy with Christmas, But right after New years, we will talk more. Maybe we can see how we can get together with some people..
Talk to you soon.

My Bad! Vinny Albi is alive and well and living in Seagate! I had him confused with Mikey Norton from back in the day.
Rihie M.

Bath AVE Girl
Yes, I'm Mary D.I have 2 brothers 2 sisters. Everyone was over my house when we were younger, that was the house we always would wind up. I have 1 friend who has the same name as my mom. I can't think of who you may be. Can you give me some hint's.
Mary D....The 1 and only LOL

HI Mary,,

OMG how can u not know me i stood with ur sister Jermain.I cant believe you dont know who i am, I bumped into annamarie lang in Bistros about 1month she looks really good,Comeon im the only 1 in the neighborhood with ur moms name and stood with ur sister,,, Ok well A little hint also stood with Genine D and Angela R,,,, ok im glad you saw my post MIss you guys i loved Ur mom she was the best. Hows jermain,,,, ok talk soon .

Ray, do you remember the night we went to 54th st & 6 th ave?

Ray,

do you remember Hot tuna Softball team?

HI I LOVED READING THOSE POSTS !!! I GREW UP IN SHEEPSHEAD BAY BUT EVERY SINGE NITE I WOULD CRUZE DOWN AVE U AND MAKE A RIGHT AT TOP TOMATOE AND GO UP AND DOWN 86TH ST WITH MY CARS I HAD A MILLION LITES AND ANTENNAS ON MY CAR IT LOOKED LIKE AN XMAS TREE COME TO THINK ABOUT IT !!! I WAS ALSWAYS WITH THIS CHINEESE GIRL KAREN, I WOULD LOVE TO GET IN TOUCH WITH HER !! MY NICK NAME WAS ROBINSTER I WORKED IN THE FUNHOUSE IN THE 80S I KNOW JOE MONK THE OWNER VERY WELL, HES A GREAT GUY !! IN THE LATE 80S EARLY 90S I WOULD ROCK 86TH STREET WITH THE LOUDEST CAR STERIO AND I AM A FEMALE// IT WOULD TURN HEADS// WELL I HAVE A SON NOW HES ONLY 5 YEARS OLD I ACTUALLY HAVE WHAT WILD STORIES TO TELL HIM, I LIVED IN THE NOSTRAND PROJECTS// COME TO THINK OF IT I WOULD NEVA LET HIM HANG OUT THE WAY WE DID !!! BUT I MISS THE GOOD OLD DAYS I MISS THE PEOPLE/ I MISS FAT TOMMY WHO PASSED HE WASNT THE NICEST BUT HE WAS THE FUNNIEST HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE AND IF U KNOW ME SEND ME AN EMAIL AT ANIMALRES@aol.com IM IN QUEENS NOW AND I STILL LISTEN TO THE OLD MUSIC MISS THOSE DAYS !!!! ROBIN AKA ROBINSTER

Bath Ave Girl

Ok, The one girl i remember with the same name as my mom. Did you have short blk hair...You also hung out with a good friend of mine. Helen r. Let me know

Does any one remember WEtson's near Korvettes?

MARY D,

DO YOU SEE PAT R NOW PAT B OFTEN?

LAST TIME I SAW HER WAS ON 86TH STREET THREE YEARS GO....

Bath Ave Girl

Ok, The one girl that I remember with the same name as my mom. Did you have short blk hair...You also hung out with a good friend of mine at the time. Helen R.Let me know.I been trying to get in touch with her...

M

I'm one of pats best friend's . I see Pat all the time. I was in her bridal party. She moved back here from Vegas. She will be at my xmas party on the 13th. She is doing well. But the question is.... Who are u??

mary d,

we know some of the same people ,,,but you would notknow me...I know Marylou, PatR...John Doe.
we used to hang out on Shore Pkwy..between 15th & 16th ave..1973-1980

Richie M; I was a little before your time, lived on 80 street and 12 ave across from ps 201. They called me Junior. My Brother Charlie played guitar and was one of the "plaids" had a hit song "Keeper of my heart" in 1957. There was always a crowd at our house playing guitars and singing and carrying on. A lot of great mamories. You mentioned the "Mangia Booth" 13 ave and 86 street, when my kids were small, we always took them there for snacks, it was a great place to go. Mangia booth was the nickname that the local crowd called the place but the real name was something like della or dalia's snack box. does anyone remember the exact name? Dyker heights was was a great place to be if you were a teenager in the fifties, with Mitchell's Drive in, Dyker Park and the hot rods cruising up and down 86 Street with their radios playing music that you could actually understand the words to. John B

Mary D,,

Yes helen was my best friend we hung out she lived in the same building as me. Also Maryann L that lived on bath and bay 13th, I wish i could run into Helen R havent seen her in years and her mother Lee, Helen and I use to be very close we lost contact when she moved.And yes mY name is geraldine like ur moms,, Hows jermain we use to hang out the good times we use to have> How you been and hows ur brothers.Tell Jermain I said Hi whats she been up too.Well im in jersey now use to live in Long Island for many years, i have to 2 girls 10 and 15.Ok check back nice hearing from u.

Mary D,
Those were the Son of Sam years...Hanging out on shore pkwy was the most dangerous thing to do.

Mary D,
Those were the Son of Sam years...Hanging out on shore pkwy was the most dangerous thing to do.

Robinster - I lived on West 12th and Ave T not far from Top Tomato. I used to cruise 86th St as well but in the late 70's early 80's. I had a 69 Cadillac with tinted windows. My leather seats had so much Armour All that you would slide across the seat when you got in the car. We had the 8 track blasting with disco mixs. It was a different time.

M
I don't do well with guessing games if u want me to know who u are E Mail me at
RCDGHTRS@aol.com

i live in bensonhurst now and it is dead im 16 yrs old nad there is honestly nuttin to do i walk on 18th ave and all i find now are blacks, chinese, andd russians i mean where did they all come from. I greew up in bensonhurst and let me tell u it changed a lot i remeber going to the corner store on w10 and ave p and see everyone now its dead. i chill with alot of the kids in the neighborhood albanians, ugo's, italians are mostly the ones u see now in seth low park im italian and irishand now i feel like the minoritiy.

Well kid, let that be a lesson to you....A majority of the people posting in here are now out of Bensonhurst. Ask them why they left?

Bensonhurst in the 50's and 60's was made up of Jews and Italians! Blacks, never saw them never knew they existed until they were bused into our schools from Manhattan in the 60's after Kennedy was assinated, that's when Bklyn not just Bensonhurst
was no longer the safe fun place to live. I miss it but what we all miss here is no longer the place we grew up it's just a Memory and all we can do is Remember That Those Were The Days and some of you will never know what it was like living in the real BENSONHURST or BROOKLYN!

Black families lived on Bath Ave for quite a long time and a few on Rutherford. There is still an old Baptist Church nr St Finbar. Current incoming are what seem to be changing the place beyond recognition. Not making much of an effort to blend with the existing community. Not to mention what developers are doing.

Bensonhurst was always a place where immigrants went to. Before the Italians it was the Irish and Germans. When the Italian generations grew up and had more income, they moved to Staten Island than New Jersey. Today we are moving to Noth Carolina, Arizon, Florida, etc... Bensonhurst started to change in the 90's. Russian and Asian immigrants came in and moves to Bensonhurst, and Gravesend. Black population remained the same. We always had Blacks in the Marlboro projects going back to the 60's. We also have a large Arab population in Bay Ridge, and Midwood.

Hi everyone, lived in Bensonhurst our entire lives from 1966 till just recently. Stumbled across this site on New Years eve, while missing the old neighborhood and all it USED to be...86th street in Bensonhurst was our place of choice. Come from 13th & 80th and wife is from 21st Avenue and Benson. Dated when we were 16 and just got married (IMAGINE THAT). Had one of the hottest cars on the avenue Champagne colored Lincoln, chocolate "rag top", jubiliees, limo tint windows and the BEST sound system (even better than Richie's)From 18th avenue to 24th avenue - EVERYONE knew who I was and heard me coming blocks and blocks away. Everynight the cruising scene was the same and it took at least an hour to go just a few blocks. It was amazing being able to hang out with friends: Skinny G, Frankie Funhouse, Ray Caddy, Cheech, Corroto and ABC..not to mention all the friends on every street corner....It was an amazing time that can never be duplicated. I was dubbed "Sally Lincoln" because that was the only car I would own or drive - each one the MINTEST car in all of bensonhurst and it felt great that everyone knew who I was even if the didn't KNOW ME. Midnight madness was a live version of Saturday Night Fever - good times...Missing the people and wish I could find some of them and get a reunion of sorts together...Plaza Suite, Pastels, Heat Wave, the Funhouse...Friends more like family..Wife was one of the twins in the neighborhood..Everyone knew who they were also even if they didn't actually KNOW them. They also had friends from every part of the neighboor, from Bay 23rd and Cropsey Park to 20th avenue and 86th street crew, to the Bay Parkway and Bath guys to the 24th Avneue guys.. Miss the cruising, miss the simpler times, miss Manhattan Beach straight from a night of crusing and partying...Get in touch if you hung out on the avenue from 1982-1986 would kill to hear from you.

OK! You want to talk shit? My Nname is Dan Pucciarelli (Pooch) any of you here remember me? I am from Bath Avenue & Bay 23rd St. Grew up there from 1954 (born) until 1986. Hung with Calyton, Ralph, Frankie Tat, Billy tooth, Joe Cool,Tommy Cow, Rob 40, Louie & Arthur bop and Vinny Mouke are my cousins. I was the DJ in the misfiit lounge on 14th Ave & 86th St 1974 - 1976, also the DJ at the Nite Gallery on 86th St & 18th Ave. 1978 - 1981. Did the standard migtration to Staten Island. I have lots of memories of the old days and lots of names to spit out. History you would not believe. wanna chat? e-mail me daspooch@si.rr.com

Dan,,,

OMG U talk of Arthur Bop, wow ill never forget him,He was bad lol,, and billy Tooth I can see there faces now it feels like yesterday.I remember hanging out with all those guys at St. Fimbars bazzar.Well nice to hear some names from back in the day.And i remember the misfit lounge also.And ur name sounds very familar to me.well have a happy new 007

Pooch- Went to the Nite Gallery during the Disco peak from 1977- 1982. Also Pastels, Plaza Suite, Fantasy Island, Penthouse. My cousin lost part of his year in a fight at the Nite Gallery. Had a 69 Cadi Coupe De Ville with tinted windows. Was called Pac. We used to party all night on Friday, than hit the diner for breakfast, and to Manhattan Beach on Saturday. Wash our cars Saturday afternoon to go out again on Saturday night. Sunday we would relax and eat great Italian food. We would get up to the smell of meatballs frying and sauce cooking. Nothing was better.

You see Jonny boy.......These are the stories on why everyone left bensonhurst. To place it on a silver platter for the russians, chinese, arabs and everyone else...except Italians.

Hey Everyone: WOW, it was great reading all these letters. I grew up on West 8th and O. Went to New Utrecht High class of 71.. I lived above the Drug store on the corner. Remember Johnnies Pizza? Used to hang on 86th or 18th ave. Lost touch of a few great friends>Linda M, Johnny R. ( Johnny married Kathy ). Also went to Seth Low. If anybody knows of anyone who went to NUHS late 60's to early 70's feel free to e-mail me: lkddeli@aol.com. I now live in florida, it would be great to to talk with some of the old gang.. Thanx for this site. Linda

I lived in Bensonhurst my whole life. I'm 36 years old now and know most people mentioned on the site. I used to hang out on 86th street and 20th ave. in the 80's and early 90's.

Tony I didn't live in the Marlboro projects and only passed by there in a car,I left Brooklyn in 1965 at the age of 15 but I will tell you this there were no Blacks any where from 17th ave -21st ave or any where on Bath Ave between Bay 23rd-25th or anywhere in that area until 1963, anyone who was growing up near or around that area know's that, yes Irish, Italians,Jews Germans all migrated to Brooklyn but I am talking about kids being bussed in and that didn't start until 1963 and that's when things started to change. I have no idea what it is like now and honestly don't care but I do feel sorry for the ones who have no clue what a safe place it was then! Linda that was Ligget's Drug Store wasn't it? You mention Linda M I knew one with that last initial, Maz was part of her last name and she lived on Bay 25th and her Mom and brother owned a candy store -resturant? I just want to say I'm sorry if I offended anyone here but some of you are younger, I remember clubs like the 17 17 club but was never old enough to get in, The Club Under the L, The Sweet Shop by the Lowe's Oriental or hanging out at Jahn's or Irvings or Hytulip, Famous Caferteia, some of the places that are talked about here are from the 70's and 80's. Yes we were one of those family's that moved to the Island then to Florida but at the time it was the right thing for our parents to do and I am happy they moved us out before we had a chance to see what has become of the neighborhood.
The only Orientals I remember were the ones that had a laundry near PS 128 and the Chinese Resturant on 86th st near Eisenberg's Drugs Store..

Just wanted to post this message that we are planning a reunion for the Class of 1991 New Utrecht High School. If you were apart of this class please contact me at utrechtreunion@yahoo.com

thanks

Anyone know were Joe Causi & Michelle Visage went? 102.7 was a nice home to Disco and now its gone. If anyone finds a new station please post. Thanks & Happy New Year to everyone.

pAULA ,,, CAUSI IS on in the mornings,,,

John B. I don't remember the 'plaids' but I did go to JHS 201! The magia booth was actually "The Dyker Drive-In". That was the name. I had bands in the area from 1965 to 1974 when I joined a disco (Top 40 band) called Expo. I don't remember the oldies song you mentioned.
Richie M.

Hey Geraldine
Germaine is doing great...I told her that you asked for her. And if you ever get in touch with Helen let me know ok. We were also very close.Germaine said hi. Talk to you soon...

wrock, would you happen to know the late tommy ocera and family?

bath ave girl, mornings what station? 102.7 is gone as of the first. and so is he.
Paula Dnow R

Mary.

thats if i ever see her i will tell her,do u know where she even moved too.. Well tell Germaine I miss her and the good times we had back in the day.What has she been up too.I was in bklyn last wed i passed by ur house.I was showing my kids all the blocks every1 lived on.Well happy New Year to u and your family.

Holy SHit Paula ur right I have no idea where have i been lol. I listen alot to z 100 and with the holidays i didnt here anything about the whole station being changed WOW.. well if i hear anything ill let u know.Thats sad

I was born on and lived on W 12th St between S&T for 28 Years. Got married in 1982 and moved to Texas for my job. Came back to Brooklyn in 87 and still live in Marine Park.

Dan ,

how is you sister lee lee?

dan,

Where was Misfist loctaed? i though 14th ave & 86 th was the 19th hole...

14th and 86th was most deffinately the 19th Hole. I lived around the corner, and hung out in Pauls Candy store all my young life!
Richie M.

Let's post some pictures of the old neighboorhood

The only time I was in Bensonhurst was the time Yusef Hawkins was shot. I marched down 20th avenue with Reverend Al Sharpton as a show of support for Yusef. Does anyone know whatever happened to those guys that killed Yusef?

Does anyone know if the Oriental Manor is still around? I was married there in 1974.

anthony,

Oriental Manor is still there,,,,,

they filmed Goodfellas in the oriental manor

Bath Beach Girl

You mentioned two of my cousins (Louise V. and Mary Lou C.) and their friends...

Hope everyone had a Happy New Year....I know I am tired......

Mary D.

Don't know if I mentioned this to you, but my wife (Jeannine is pregnant and due any day now)....Life at 50 with a new born. My daughter went from my little baby to Babby over night.....This is the third time she got suspended for fighting in school (I think it's a red headed thing). And to think.....I want to call the new baby Babby.

Ray & Mary.....Why don't we hook up in Arizona this summer.....I know Louise would make the trip...and I am sure Marylou would love to go.....

I guess Ray made me feel bad when he spoke about the guessing games, so here goes...My name is Reggie (This was such a good Brooklyn nick name that even my mother thinks it's my real name). Didn't hang out on the avenue much, spent allot of time in Olivers Bar.....Played football with Raymond D. and worked out with Gregory A. Joey DeMarco and Johny Goritto coached our football team when we were younger (about 13 or 14)....I remember getting into a fight with the Hurricanes (I think the field was on Avenue U) they had about 50 guys and we had about 15.......We did more than hold our own....

Everyone have an nice New Year ....See you soon.

Almost forgot.....

Mary D....Is your brother having his 4th of July party this year....If not, I would like all of you to come down by me as it will probably be our last one.....South Carolina is really heating up and I am hoping to be down there before the June of 2008.

Ray....If you get a chance, come out for this one....you can hook up with my cousine Mike and fly out together. I have plenty of space to crash at.

Oriental Manor is still there but across the street is a huge building. I think it used to be a part of the Oriental Manor, maybe an old time movie theater. Its a Marshall's now and it seems a shame to have that whole huge beautiful building used as a cheap ass Marshalls. Does anyone who grew up in Bensonhurst have any history on it? Also Ive heard some rumors that there changing the marlboro houses from projects to co-ops, anyone know anythng about it?

rodney,

the building was the Loews Oriental movie theatre

It was a movie house (Lowes)....I remember seeing the Excorcist and Godfather there.

Who can forget the Loewes movie theatre? Everyone and I mean EVERYONE saw Saturday Night Fever there. I had already moved to Staten Island when Fever came out - the only other movies I saw there were The Bad News Bears and Kentucky Fried Movie.

To All:
I trip across this web page looking for NUHS reunions, I know some of you people didn't go to Utrecht, but check out what this jelous SOB wrote about us and the area we came from. The web site is at the bottom of this BS so you guys can read it too.
--------------------------------------------------
New Utrecht High School

(place) by jahoza (4.4 y) (print)

?
Tue Feb 20 2001 at 2:45:47
New Utrecht H.S. aka New Utter Reck aka Newly Erected Reck aka New Useless, located in the heart of Guido-Land (an area of Brooklyn populated mostly by bigot Italians-see Yusef Hawkins), is the School of High to avoid when applying to a h.s., getting off the 79st stop at the B-line, or crossing the street to get to the sweatshop. Coined by the teachers and faculty as, "The School of Soft Cocks", due to the lack of excitement exhibited by the student body when being stimulated by under-skilled, psuedo-intellectual, egotistical, teachers of the pathological lying persuasion (Mr. Dimentstein, Mr. Stratis), who failed in life, yet seek a source of livelihood that would support their meaningless existence by syphening the energy and talent from the UTE's (students, alumni).

New Utrecht h.s. was also the setting for the sitcom "Welcome Back, Kotter", back in its hayday in the mid-70's.

New Utrecht h.s. appeared in a Saturday Night Live "Welcome Back, Kotter" skit featuring Adanoid Sandler.

Graduates from New Utrecht who made it "BIG": (supposedly) Mr. Furley from Three's Company.

Hotspots (Where the action is): bathrooms, staircases, and the sidewalk. Dimenstein's room-For all the aspiring gays.

http://everything2.com/index.pl?node_id=957732

Maybe we can all visit this SOB's web site and flood him with some crap of our own.

Tanya,

I think I may know your sister. Was her name Angela and did she live a couple of blocks near Alba's pasty shop? If yes, ask her if she remembers Doreen L. (I went to New Utrecht for 2 years before we moved to Staten Island). Anyway, you may know a few people she grew up with - Frankie T., Anthony F., Joey C., Concetta B., Laura S. and Vinnie S., just to name a few. I remember a heavy set woman who lived next door to her but I cant remember which block.

regards,
Doreen

does any recall Chicks grocery store on Bath Ave near 16th ave or Fuffy's pancake house on 16th ave & 86th st.?

http://www.langesdeli.com/

Does anyone know what happened to Mike M & Sammy M from bay 11th?

Intersted in history of the Lowes Oriental or seeing a photo of what it looks like now as Marshalls see this website http://www.citynoise.org/article/3455

On the corner of chicks, there use to be Kevins deli. Then on the corner of Bay 11th and Bath, there was a candy store. I still live in the area. Born and raised

chicks,
Prior to Kevins it was Ermilios ....

I still see Tony Ermilio he plays drums and sings in 3 bands on Staten Island.

Richie M,

wow.,..Anthony was a cool guy...use to hang with Junior bay 11th....

does anyone recall Mary's candy store on Bay 8 & bath?

Richie M.

Anthony is a cool guy...Do you know where he plays...I would like to go a check the band out one day.

P.S. I noticed lot's of references to Junior Bay 11th and Junior Bay 16th....Did any of these guys ever graduate to Seniors...How come there was no Junior Louisiana Boy's or Junior Bay 23rd boys(LOL)

Jim, Mary's was that little boxlike structure? There was actually a house somewhat behind it, way off the street. Always wondered who lived there. Never saw anyone
-d

Donna,
Yes,,Mary's was that boxlike structure ,,,,she charged a penny tax on everything....

Great blog. I grew up on Bay 16th, between Benson and Rutherford. Went to 163. 201 and Lafaytte. These post are bring back great memorys. There's a Ray out there posting, does your last name start with C and end with Z? We lived around the corner from each other. Greg Albi was my best friend. After PS 163 school yard, we moved to Blasco's club, De ja vu!

Does anyone recall Gordons on bath ave?

robert,

do you see Greg A anymore?

donna did you go to 229?

Does anyone remember...

Jerry Clothing Store on 17th Ave. and Bath

Gordon Shoes on Bay 17th

Staceys Car/Fireworks Service

Chicks Grocery

Elsies Candy Store

Sisters Candy Store

Miceli/Numbers Pharmacey

And don't forget all you guys who went to Episodes on Rensen Street ;-)

The Green Grand Prix and brown Nova cruising Shore Parkway

Under the bleachers at Bay 8th Street Park

Miss the good "ole" days

does anyone recall Joe the scooter ,,ice cream man?

Jim,
I keep in touch with Greg, B-days, holidays. Last time I seen him we met for lunch not far from is work, when I was in NY.

Joe...OMG with the missing fingertip. Then there was Teddy the Good Humor Man. Then there was Fat Faruk selling hot dogs at Bay 8th Street Par.

Is Nelly Bly still open?

Robert,

Nelly bly is closing down...

was anyone on the St. Francis cabrini baseball team? there was a pictchure ....left handed....
name started with a p...

Jim, yes I went to PS 229 till Cabrini opened. I left 229 in 5th grade. We were SFC's first graduating class
-donna

Donna the same here. Had Ms. Vertriglio at 229 in the 5th and Ms. McPeak at SFC.

The SFC teachers I can recall: Sal Cappucci, Sr Mary Niles, Sr Eva, Mr Toto, Ms Granger, at the end of the hall ... I'm sure the memory will kick in a few more
-donna

229 teachers ... hmm ... I do remember Mrs Potts for kindergarten then Mrs Littenberg in 1st grade. She was a lovely Jewish woman. She got a fur coat and walked around the room with it so we all could touch it, lol
-donna

donna,

I remember all of them.....i was also in the first graduating class ....I have to check my yearbook to see who you are...I remember Donna F...& Donna L....do you remember Peter F, Anthony A, Frank A?

Donna,
Donna,
some other 229 teachers were Miss Feldman & the liabrarian,,,,Mrs. cassidy do you remember the
cookies & milk? the air raid drills?

Donna,
do you remember Mrs. Kirk ? Mr. Weiss the principal..?

Jim, Donna F ... but do a lady and favor though and skip checking the yearbook picture :-)

Yes I know all the names you have mentioned but still trying to place you! I was in the same class with Peter, Anthony & Frank
-donna

donna,
some other people in SFC first class were....Stella S, Phyllis M, Andrea I, Tommy V...

Peter F jumped out the window in Sister Eva's class...over the sugar castle incident...

Yes ... Ms Feldman was pretty but so nasty! So was Mrs Cassidy. (Nasty, I mean) I was afraid of her, lol. Mr Weiss had cartoon character quality about him . Before him we had Mrs Heffernan

Yes milk & cookies, hiding under our desks and in the halls with our coats over our heads from nuclear explosions .... Guess you do what you can :-)

Donna,

Ha! ok.. I 'll skip checking the year book.....

Peter did keep Eva on her toes. I think that was it for him. He didn't graduate there due to that one.

Stella, Phyllis M, Phyllis C, Cynthia M, Patrick C, Vincent R, Kenny D, Barbara G .... Funny how many times teachers changed all our seats trying to find an arrangment to get us to stop talking ... But we were all neighborhood kids. We all knew one another so matter how they placed us, it was just someone else you knew to goof around with
-donna

Jim, if you want to tell me who you are -
drobyn68@yahoo.com
I don't have anything to check from SFC for names & faces. Just relying on memory here

Ciao for now, donna

donna.,
did stella have 5 brothers

Robert

Wow...I forgot about Blasco's club, De ja vu... great memory....Sorry to hear about Robert.

Who went to 201 1969 to 1972? remember tough teachers in shop, Mr. Comito and Mr. Papas? There were a few others.

Robert,,

Omg I remember mr Comito and Mr papas and mrs mischik i think thats how u spell it lol,,

mrs mischik was a tough woman, i remember the riots back in 1971 maybe . I was in the school the same time as u robert

http://www.brooklyn.net/my_bklyn/my_bklyn_003.html
This is another Brooklyn site I just happen to come across.

I will be the big 50 this year, in fact very soon. Lived on Bay16th until I got married. Went to PS 163, JHS 201, ST. Finbar (3yrs), Lafayette went into Marines Jan. 75. Hung out on Bay 16th and Benson, right on the corner, mailbox, fire alarm, etc. Anyone remember Bernie painting the black and white painting on the 163 schoolyard handball court. Everybody kicked in a few dollars, looked like somthing from a YES album. Lived across the street from Greg & Vinny Albi, Rosario Vigorito (RIP). Grew up with Grasso, Buddy; Joey, Frank and Mike Amari, Jimmy Neck, Blasco (RIP), and many others. When I visit my Mother, my kids always wonder what the attrction was,and how could I say this was the greatest place in the world. They grew up in Las Vegas. I tell them Bensonhurst/Bathbeach was like a small town, that had everything. It was a very safe and everybody knew each other. Oh, the storys. There were problems, but on the whole it was a wonderplaces. And, "you don't no what you got/had till it's gone". I hope to here from Ray C. You lived on 17th ave, near Sal the WOP, and remember Freddy?

Bath ave girl,
reading one of your past post, You mention Miclele Virgo, WOW, I ran into her and Carl Bini's (RIP) wife over 10 years ago at L&B. They lived of the corner of Bay 13 and 86th. I worked with Sal Gilio (Sal the Wop) at Jimmy's grocery store, early 1970's. The winter before 9/11 was the last I heard from Carl. Steve Schirripa just got the part in the Sopranos and Carl and Steve were close, and Steve was living between NY and Vegas. And then on 9/11, the next day Steve calls me at my office, Carl was uncounted, so sad. After the I got out of the service, I had a big brown Mark 4 (real dumb), counld't afford the gas, LOL. Did you go to 201?

reggie,

Rosy (RIP), we were like salt and pepper. Saw your aunt last year. louise is still living in the same house, but upstairs, where the Albi's used to live. Was it your side of the Vigorito's that own the bakery?

ROBERT,,,
my grandmother lived on bay 14th a couple of houses down from michelle so i knew the whole family all my life.as i got older i stood with michelle Johnny G he had a brother tony eyes i think Raymond C. tusha.And jimmys yes i remember his deli name was Rinaldi lol omg and do u remember greenstiens and the fish store back then.Im 47 but always stayed with the older kids, i also stood by the candy store across the st from Jahns back then i dont remember the name of it. there was a pool hall on 86 th st I went out with Frankie Z he was 1 of the best pool players back then i thought.I also use to go jimmy coppos bar under the L New Utrecht ave.I guess i was all over back then lol. I also use to stay with some girls from benson and ruthtford Iren m ,gloria e.

Irene M lived around the corner from me on Bay 17th. Her Uncle Jim passed away last year, u may remember him he couldn't see to good. Anyway my mom was visiting the family and she called me and put Irene on the phone, hadn't seen or spoke with her in decades! Anyway she as a kid that's a cop! U may have know my younger brother, he went to Finbar, then Lafayette.

robert the schools i went to were st fimbar I think it was for nursery lol then moved closer to st francis went there a few years i use to play with baseball cards and the nuns use to yell at us lol I lived right next door to George C and brothers john and kenny. then i went to 163 do u remember MR ADAMS just found out he died. then went off to 201 1971.... then to Lafayette grad 1977.Went off to work On wall st.

yes of course i remember uncle jim they were my cousins on my mothers side, he was great guy. My whole family lived across from them sammy gloria basil charlie and dominica

Bath Ave Girl, I'm not sure how many brothers Stella had, but yes, she did come from a large family
-donna

I can't spell their last name (Basil, Charlie, etc) the family sold that house on Benson and didn't they own the dress factory under the L?I don't recall Mr. Adams. Do u remember, Mrs. Flaterry, Mr. Digiacomo, the other 163 teacher with white hair played the paino. Mr. Kane was old when we went. Did u know the Amato's?

Donna,,

i wonder if u know my sister Marie she stood with Edna lol,, she did go to ps 229.

robert..
Mr. Digiacomo i can still ses his face with glasses on,, and yes they owned the dress factory they were all my cousins.and i stood with irene along time shes married to ralph right , and gloria rip, what a shame they were such good friends of mine back then.irenes brother was in a band i remember use to have a crush on him.

and Donna stella had 5 brothers Michael chipper i think use to walk with a limp what ever happend to them.and did u know Pattie C and she had brothers steven and vinny i lived around the corner from them.I can go on and on everybody new everybody it was 1 big family Who ever grew up in bklyn should be very proud.just think we had all the beaches to coney island brighton ,manht beach. we were surounded buy the best and we didnt even know it.

Irene told me that her husband Ralph retired from the city. Pattie C did her last name end with an i? And Irene's brother Ray played with a local band who were very good "Genesis" somthing like that. And you 100% right, we had everything. I get a lttle depressed when I go back, but, I guess that's normal, it's the memorys. But I've seen a lot of homes torn down, that gave the neighborhood a lot of character.

robert..

Patties named eneded in eli lol.They lived on the same block as st francis ,, how old is your brother.Yes bklyns not the same im there once a month i buy all my shoes in something else lol.in spite of all the changes i still love it.Yes we did have everything and it was good.id rahter hold the memories then have none lol.and yes i did know the amatos ,put it this way i knew every1 from bensonhurst kings highway to sheepshedbay all over hahahhahhaha.i did alot of dancing back then also went to alot of clubs.also stood on the corner of 85th st the candy store byt the train station,those were the good old days.

Hey Robert,
I live on Bay 14 across from the schoolyard. I'm 30 and lived here my whole life. Just wanted 2 mention, growing up that black and white painting on the school yard wall would always come thru, no matter what else was painted on top, and it was always a mystery on what it was, until about 3 years ago the whole top was perfectly visible, i remember a black sun, and a mountain. That is amazing you mentioned it, i can't wait to tell my friends about the mysterious painting on the wall!
Thanks!

Hi Robert...I can't believe I was reading and I came across your name. How are you???Big Hugs and Kisses to you. It's me Louise. I haven't been on lately but today I decieded to get on and read some postings and there you are. I see that you were asking about Gregory. I seen him right before Christmas..we were at the annual Christmas reunion and he was there with his wife. But I got such sad news...His mom, Mary passed away a few months ago. It happened pretty fast. But he is doing fine. Yes..I'm here still on Bay 16th St. My mom is getting ready to go to AZ. She'll probably be leaving in mid Jan. Are you in Vegas or Florida now??? you must call me I haven't seen you or spoken to you in years. Do you still have my Mom's number??? She's listed anyway's. I really don't want to put my phone # on the posting.
Hope to speak to you soon.
Louise Vig

Did anyone else had to learn the "50 states" by the end of the school year with Mr. DiGiacomo from PS 163?

louise,

I'll send you my # mail it to you. Say hello to your Mother, I seen her last summer, she was at a baby shower. I love this site. Your cus reggie is on it and a few other people, who i know who, they are. A friend from Bay 8th told me about this site yesterday. I knew about mary, Gregory's wife had called me. Reggie should remember me. I'll look for your Mother's #. How have you been. I talk to Vinny D all the time.

Peter,,

Omg yes the 50 states Main,vermont,New Hamshire,Mass,Conn,Rode island,New york, ,penn,jersey, Maryland west vir , virginia, Nc,st carolina georgia fla kentucky tenn,,, omg thats too funny i think it went something like that hahahha thinking back everything we learned was repitious. I still remember part of the puzzle the kids today learn in 1 day and thats it hoping they catch on.

Has anyone seen my brother dennis kelly of west 7th street and avenue u..........i havent heard from him in years...... camille

Bath Ave Girl, I heard you mention Irene, her cousin is my best friend for the last 40 years. Uncle Jim was considered my Uncle and her brother Ray is doing great. I must know you somehow. Lets talk.

Robert, How old is your younger brother? My two best friends went to Finbar so I know alot of their friends. I was a 163 and Cabrini girl.

bzymomx03
well i stayed with Irene,Gloria.my whole family lived on bay 17th also new joan g. i dont know, where are u from & how old? i know irenes mother and father were my mothers cousins some how realated.

Dan Pucci --
Did you go to Lafayette between '74 - '77 and hang out on the step on the Bay 43rd Side and have a cuz Anthony Pucci??

Dan Pucci --
Did you go to Lafayette between '74 - '77 and hang out on the step on the Bay 43rd Side and have a cuz Anthony Pucci??

Hi Dan Pucci -
Were you in Lafayette between '74 - '77 and hangout on the Bay 43rd side staircase?? Did you have a cuz Anthony Pucci???

Louise

why do i know that name pucci,, dan i knew all those guys clayton,billy tooth,bop,i also grad lafayette 74-77.Louise do i know u

Hello,
Bath Ave Girl - - I do not have a cousin Anthony Pucci, I did hang on 43rd St side until 1971, went in the Marine Corps.
M - My sister Lee Lee is doing very well, and the 19th Hole did become the Misfit Lounge in 1973.
Louise, No.
Bay 10 & Cropsey, I would like to know who you are. I lived on Bay 10th from 1973 to 1984.

Best wishes
Dan Pucciarelli (daspooch@si.rr.com)

For Christman, Mr. DiGiacomo use to stand on his head for the class. I have to admit, I'm 37 and I can hardly stand on two feet without wobbling. LOL.

HI TO ALL BENSONHURST SURVIVORS !
I JUST WANNA SAY IT HAS BEEN SO MUCH FUN READING ALL OF THE POSTS AND JUST HAVE TO SAY MOST OF THEN NAMES I EITHER KNEW OR HEARD ALL THE WAR STORIES FROM THE OLDER CREWS GROWING UP AS A KID. I TOO GREW UP ALL AROUND BENSONHURST & I WAS LIKE WOW WHEN I READ ALL OF THIS.. I WENT TO P.S. 163 & DYKER & LAFAYETTE BUT HUNG OUT ALL OVER.ALTHOUGH I WAS YOUNG I WAS THE GENERATION AFTER OLIVER'S ,IT WAS CALLED BACKSTREETS & BEFORE ME AND EILEEN THERE WERE NO GIRLS ALLOWED IN THERE BUT WE CHANGED THAT ! HA HA..WE HAD THE PLEASURE OF MEETING AND BECOMING FRIENDS WITH MARTY THE BARTENDER,WHO WAS LIKE ONE OF US.. BAY 16TH AND BATH ,HANGIN OUT AT "NICKS" ,BOY WE DROVE HIM CRAZY..I EVEN REMEMBER US ALL HAVIN BATH AVE JERSEYS MADE UP. OF COURSE AT THE TIME WHEN ALL THE RIVELS WERE GOIN ON BETWEEN EACH AVE AND CREW THE BOYS ALWAYS MADE FUN CAUSE US GIRLS WERE TESTING OUT GUYS FROM OTHER AVES.. EVEN AS GIRLS WE HAD TO FIGHT OUR WAY THRU ,HEY ITS HOW WE MADE MOST OF OUR FUTURE BEST FRIENDS..LOL..I USED TO HAVE MASSIVE HOUSE PARTIES AND EVEN RAN INTO A GUY 5 YRS AGO THAT SAID HEY WERENT YOU MISSY FROM BAY 19TH THAT HAD MAJOR HOUSE PARTIES..IT WAS SO FUNNY CAUSE I DIDNT EVEN REMEMBER HIM, BUT SOME DAYS WERE A BLURR BACK THEN.. I HAVE TO SAY DYKER WAS THE MEETING POST FOR MOST OF US BUT SOMEHOW NEVER MADE IT INTO SCHOOL MOST DAYS..WE SAY REST IN PEACE TO ALOT OF WHO WE KNEW BACK THEN AND SOME JUST TOOK THE WRONG PATH AND NEVER DID ANYTHING BUT ALOT OF US ARE MARRIED ,HAVE KIDS AND YES GREAT CAREERS..WE SHOULD ALL KEEP WRITING IN ..THIS IS FUN !!

great memories ,i remember gordon's shoe store on bath av,but have not seen any body mention pizza palace next to independent meat market across the street from anthony S social club of which i used to sweep up for 3 dollars. HE HAD A OLD BEAUTIFUL POOL TABLE in the front of the club and in the back was something else mmmmthe original julies candy store was on the corner of bay 14 and bath, julie was the best r.i.p.when i was 5 years old i had a operation and when i awoke from surgery found a room full of toys sent from julie and lilo galente r.i.p. the toys came from elsie's toy store located on bath between b13 and b14. julies burned down and later he reopened a few stoes down. what about jerry's barber shop ...julie opened his candy store in the middle of the night t offer the firemen free food and something hot to drink while fighting the big fire on cropsey between b13 and b14. lilo owned an apartment building on bay13 and bath and across st. the magic lantern which was run by sal volpe his brother in law... sorry for the long chatter,but these are cherished memories ... peace to all

Reggie and Jim, Tony Ermilio (Bubbles) plays with Ralphie (who owns the Pharmacy on 17th Ave and Bath. I think they still have a bnad. You can go in there and ask Ralph about Tony.

Jim, I remember Joe the Scooter Ice Cream man! Does anyone remeber Knicky the Ice Cream man? Me used to push it, no sccoter.

Robert, I remember Mr. Pappas (he had a stand in Coney Island on the boardwalk). I also remember Comito and Mr. Nissen who used to us with a dowl stick!

Bath Ave Girl, I grew up on 17th between bath and benson, moved in 1980 when I was 16. I am 42 now and live upstate. My friends mother still lives in the same house as Irenes parents. Her mother and Irenes father are brother and sister.

John, I remember Pizza Palace

John m,

Was that Al volpe ?

John M,

was it Al volpe that worked Bedrock?

bzymomx03
I remember they had family there, i was so young back then .im a little older than u now.but I lived on bay 17th between shore and cropsey.

I'm driving myself nuts trying to think of the name of the resturant that was on the corner of Bay 13th and Bath across the street from the original Bath Beach Body Building. Marinos Bakery on Bath in-between B.13 & B.14 had the best .20 cent slice pizza in town

Robert...

Of course I remember you. Do you remember Miraglias??? Remeber watching the superbowl over Rosie's house and building a wall of empty beer cans???

I am surprised Louise didn't answer this one but yes....our uncle owned the bakery shop (If your talking about the one on 15th Avenue between 73rd and 74th)... My cousine Mike dosen't live to far from Raymond C. in Arizona.

I believe you went to Poly Prep H.S. for a while...

Reggie, Hi, 1st Eddy with the blond hair went to Poly, remember he had the big house on the corner on 17thave and Benson. I am going to post an email, so we could talk. And it was your was the "other" Lousie your cousin or sister, her father owned the bakery on 15th ave and lived in Manhatteb Beach. You had to have a score card to keep up with the Vigorito's, LOL. I throw you one, remember your Uncle Mike from Italy came over about 1969-70 and had the tri-motor bike? He was a great guy. And you recall the town in Italy is my last name!

Lousie, Reggie, Ray,etc.

Write me at robertbay16th@yahoo.com. Real original.

Does anyone still live in Bath Beach??? Or the 5 boro's for that matter.

hi, m
alphonse volpe was his name he had an older sister named antoinette and a younger brother i think his name was sal there uncle was Carmine galante [ lilo] to people who knew him Carmine owned an apartment building on bay 13 and bath and the magic lantern which later became bedrockif you seen Carmine you would never believe how powerful a man he was,thank god he took a liking to me lol. w ho remember's cash? he use to to take the numbers[gray hair, thick glasses and a sharp dresser.
bzymomx03 pizza palace was owned by two men both had gray hair one very tall and one short i think the tall one was john can't remember the other ...... how about johnny the barber he would work in independt meat market from time to time, a fun guy that use to bark at the kids......the first stacy car service was in the building opposite the magic lantern saul a jewish guy use to fight with all the wise guy's then the business moved to patty boxcars building between b10 b11. i worked as a dispatcher there in about 1977 to 79. got to know where everyone lived. i was on the night son of sam killed stacy moskowitz later met the guy she was with think his name was robert vollante. he had one eye serverly damaged from the gunshot. nicky izzo was a fixture at stacy's he was also my neighbor and regardless of what people ever thouhght of nicky he was a great freind and would do anything for you. i loved him and his whole family. they were great neighbors. his mother just passed a couple of months ago.
anybody remember Robert grippo rip always my protector in school and in the bowling alley on 18 av. he lived acrossed the street from the bowling alley.................

As I remember Stacys did great 4th of July business, the going price back then was $6 for a mat. Three Star Lanes was another great Saturday hang out. Still trying to figure out the name of the Italian resturant on the corner of Bay 13th & Bath, across the street from the original Bath Beach Body Building run by the C**o brothers.

Johnny Boy! Cool website huh! Anybody remember "Simon Buck" or "Savage Rose" 2 bands that used to play at SFC dances! Rock On!
Richie M

yo richie
yes it it a great site,love to hear of the old days.thanks for turning me on to it.how about the band the ' knockouts' rich m was the drummer and i first seen you play at dyker hgt's jhs,i said to myself i am going to play in a band with that drummer one day. where is chucky rondot? anybody outthere know? i'd love to see him again.
i remember playing at sunset park and we taped it on my old sony reel to reel and i think you still have the tape, don't remember if we had changed to simon buck yet.
peace out all

John, Wow do I remember Stacys car service. You really brought back memories now. Of course you can't forget Gentiles Pastry Shop, Max's corner store, there was a drugstore on the corner of 17th and bath, I believe Michaels carpet store, and a stationary store on the corner of bay 14th and bath where we used to buy our school supplies from. I could go on and on. What memories.

Where did all the Ave.O/West 5th street people go?? Bay Parkway, Seth Low Park People?? Where are you Now??? (state and fed pen n/a)...LOL!!!

bzymomx03

Wow... I am having a hard time remembering some of the things...but Gentiles isn't one of them....The best Italian ices ever made....

I remember Bath Beach Body Building but can't picture the location. Don't remember an Italian restaurant on Bath and Bay 13th at all...Remember one on 18th and Benson on the 2nd floor....(or somewhere around 3 star lanes).

Here's a curve ball.

Does anyone remember the Gas station / mechanic shop on 16th avenue between Bath and Benson??

Don't remember the gas station on 16th Ave. The Texico on 17th & Cropsey brings back memories as I used their air hose many a time to fill up my bike tires. Who remembers Aunt Susies Kitchen?

Cropsey & Bay 10th, who are you????!!!! I lived on Bay 10th Bet Bath & Cropsey for 12 years.

the restraunt was MOMMA TURRI'S.they sold quite a few yrs back then it just closed down..sad ..they had awesome food !!

I think Momma Turri's was on the corner of 86th and Bay 14th. Last time I checked there is a Carvel. The food was great and cheap. Dan my Bensohurst/Bath Beach prime was the early 80's.
My mom still lives on Bay 10th in-between Cropsey and Independence Ave. Don't really remember you Pooch, but do remember Tommy Ver***i, Ronald V**a, Patty Bo, John D**me, David Pi**i (RIP),Micheal V***i, Gregory T**a*a, Hamburger and others. I was kind of a low key guy into sports (Baseball) and hung out on Shore Parkway. Went to PS 229 & SFC, Dyker Heights, Lafayette, then onto Collage. This site is really great. My name is Anthony, married a Jersey gal and have a home in Bay Ridge.

Did anyone hang out by the pizzaria on west 8th & Kings hwy. back in the 80's?

Cropsey & Bay 10th

Okay... I give up....I should know you...We know all the same people....

Peter , I give up on the 16 Ave Gas station question. Until when was it still there? That great old house that sat way back off 16 Ave between 86th & Benson was recently taken down. Hate seeing that happen. I think that old health station still stands though.
-donna

Kings hwy & west 8th street, Avenue U & west 11, Highlawn & Stillwell ave. & 86th st. & 20th ave. parking lot, Ave. U across from Joes Bar on the triangle, Cropsey park, 86th st & Bay Pkwy. come on!! Where the hell is everyone?? Bensonhurst's hey day!! Late 70's to mid 80's! I guess people are still recovering.

HI, READING EVERYONES PAST TIME , HAS PUT SO MUCH HAPPINESS IN MY HEART. I LIVED ON AVE U AND WEST 4TH STREET WENT TO PS 95,BOODY, AND GRAUDUATED FROM LAFAYETTE 1977. I GREW UP THERE MY WHOLE LIFE, IT WAS THE BEST. HANG OUT WITH ABOUT 20-30 FRIENDS I ONLY WISH MY KIDS HAD THAT NOW. MY BEST FRIEND LIVED NEXT DOOR,WEST 5TH,WEST 6TH IT WAS JUST ONE BIG HAPPY FAMILY EVERYONE KNEW EACH OTHER AND WATCHED OVER EACH OTHER. JUST A GREAT NEIGHBORHOOD TO GROW UP IN. AS I GOT OLDER MET MY EX ON BATH AVE BAY 10TH HE LIVED, WE USED TO GO TO BEDROCKS GREAT PLACE FOR DANCING LOL. WELL I JUST WANT TO THANK EVERYONE FOR ALL THE WONDERFUL MEMORIES.

Chuck Rondot is on Staten Island and has an unlisted phone number. I tried to reach him. The Knockouts was my very first band John! and Yes we did end up playing together, even to this day didn't we! I still have the Sunset Park tape in my archives! I also have The Ritz Theater tapes too!

I remember the gas station on 16th Ave between Benson and Bath, Steve Scopoletti's (RIP) father used to park his big truck there..

Richie M

hung ut under the EL from 1983-1990 or so...took 3 hours to go from 25th ave (the old united skates of america) to the car wash on 18th ave where we used to buy the car wash tapes.

Matty Maf
Guy Fontana
Paulie Rich
Cheech
Joe Bird
Debbie Mo
Joey Bananna's from Cropsey Park
Paulie & Joe
Joe Diamonds
Jeff Fezza
Anthony Lavagin...oh well
Caesars Bay Bazaar (I sold the fake ID)
L&B...best square pizza EVER
Harway Ave feast when 92 was KTU THE HOT ONE
Plaza Suite
Romeo & Juliets
Razzles
Frankie Funhouse
Sally Lincoln
Mike Man from Bay 13th
I can go on & on...Joe the COP
Racing the caddy between the poles & not crashing
Pat & Albie
FotoMat parking lot
Pastels
3rd avenue below 86th st if you were IRISH :)
Manhattan Beach ...WE OWNED IT!!!
The Funhouse
HEATWAVE
Roller Palace

Would love to hear from anyone I emntioned or may have left out

amonti68@hotmail.com

Bensonhurst will forever live on in my heart & ALBA had the best Stroufalee...sorry could never spell it

Christina from bay 35th

Jumping into the windows & moonroofs of girls cars that weren't going over 5mph...

I alomost forgot
Gene's Deli on the corner of Kings Highway & west 10th...The Homestretch Bar...Gina DiMeglio was my second cousin...my first girlfriend Francine T... man was she cute & made my heart jump evrytime I saw her...too bad her parents were from the otherside cause we always had to sneak around!

Grew up on 17th ave and 63rd street - who remembers Dom F., Sandro G., Joe P.(Bon Anima), Greg V. - used to hang with the boys from Tali's

Awesome site, brings back a ton of memories....Summer nights with everyone sitting on their stoops, July 4th barbecues, the 18th Avenue feast, Alba's, DaVinci's, Merry Toys, Bertas, Bari Pork Store, Doris, the sweet smell of Sunday dinner being prepared at noon, stoop ball, stickball, wiffle ball, "sewer to sewer" football, block parties, all those cucozza's being grown in my grandfathers backyard, my uncle's red 1972 Cadillac, cruising on 86th street in the black Riviera with "Born To Be Alive" blasting on the blahpunk, St.A's, the girls from Bishop Kearney (Still the best looking girls in Bensonhurst), street crowds, the good humor man in the summer, italian ices from Alba's, Key Food, Met Food, Sal's Bakery, P.S. 205, New Uterecht versus Lafayette on Thanksgiving (Go Utes!), the Walker theatre, and friends Joey S., Joe C., Frankie T., Cheech, Otto, Athur, Anthony F., Johnnie Boy, Peter, Jerry, Eric and Vito.

Anyone remember a kid named George that used to live on Stillwell ave.?

Billy

You are so right. What about eating the fried meatballs before they went into the sauce on Sunday morning. You could smell everyones gravy on Sunday morning as you walked down the street. Hanging out on the corner all night in the summer on weekdays. Hanging out on the front porch when you were a little kid at night. Playing I Declare War in the Street, or freeze tag, slap ball street to street, punch ball, softball at lafayette concrete field or 287 schoolyard.

okay all I'm back My comp was on the fritz. I am reading all that I ha e missed .First I woudl love to hook up with u guys in AZ I gave my e Mail a couple times on here but here goes again RCDGHTRS@aol.com
Also don't be offended by my comment about guessing game su guys I tottally understand wanting to be anonymous. i didn't contact anyone from the old hood for years because i have to admit I wanted to put all the bad memories behind me. But i have found by chatting wih u guys that i have sonme good memories also.
For those who want to know me and have me know them E Mail me And lets remember the good times

Saturday nights were always fun. But Sundays was the best day of the week. That was the day we would wake up to the smell of garlic and onions frying in olive oil. As we lay in bed, we could here the hiss as the crushed tomatoes were dropped in the pan. What was better than Gentile Italian bread dipped in Sunday morning gravy. Sunday was not complete without going to Mass. GOD forbid if I ate before Mass.There was a definite distinction between them and US. There was no animosity involved in that distiction, no hard fellings, just ours was the better way. My grandfather achieved his goal of coming to Amrerica and to New York and now his children and granchildren and their families are acheiving the same goals becuase we are Americans. My father lied about his age to fight for this country in WWII. It seems like today people come to America to be in America and do not want to be Americans. I would never replace the stucco with aluminum siding and my fig trees are always wrapped for the winter, just like my granfather would want it.

Tony

You are right about the fried meatballs - I would always eat at least one before they went in the sauce. And wasn't there always an Abbot and Costello movie on Channel 11 every Sunday morning? And don't forget Ringo-Levio.

Tony

You are right about the fried meatballs - I would always eat at least one before they went in the sauce. And wasn't there always an Abbot and Costello movie on Channel 11 every Sunday morning? And don't forget Ringo-Levio.

Tony

You are right about the fried meatballs - I would always eat at least one before they went in the sauce. And wasn't there always an Abbot and Costello movie on Channel 11 every Sunday morning? And don't forget Ringo-Levio.

Okay...Where talking about food....I grew up in your typical large Italian family...most of us lived together or at a minimum a few blocks apart. I would venture to guess that we had spent most holidays together, the two biggest being Christmas and Thank Giving.

Christmas was the best....

15 cousins all around the same age (1 uncle that was our age...fertile Italians)....My family owned a luncheonette. My aunt owned probably one of the best bakeries in Brooklyn, my uncle owned a pork store (I have never had sausages like the ones he made since ---mmm home made Italian Sausage). My aunt (the one who owned the bakery shop) and my grandmother, were probably the best cooks ever (at least I thought so)...They use to roll their own spaghetti on Sundays (imagine that --- rolling your own spaghetti for a family of about 30 people---and that's was just what we considered our immediate family). Back then everything was made from scratch...at least in my family....I didn't know spaghetti came in boxes or tomato sauce came in cans until I was about 15. I can still taste my aunts stuffed calamari on Christmas eve....I remember we had to have seven different types of fish.....I still do that every Christmas eve...I remember when we actually went to sleep on Christmas Eve and when we woke up, Santa had brought and decorated the tree and all the presents where there.

Thanks Giving was upstairs from the bakery....My aunt and uncle had a brick kiln that they used to make the bread...That's where my aunt would make the turkey....I was so spoiled, nothing taste the same now....except when I go over my aunts house...she still makes her own sauce and pastas from scratch...still makes the stuffed calamari oh...and I forgot what it's called in Italian...but it's the Italian chocolate pudding (which I came to love even after I found out how it was made).

I'm not sure if it was a gift growing up the way I did or a curse. I cherish every memory and yet....that's all they are...Can someone build a time machine so I can relieve those days of growing up in Brooklyn....I would especially love to take my kids back to those days....

Reggie, sweet. Thanks for sharing your memories. Many that I can relate to.

The woman who originally owned my house was born in the 1880's. She taught me how to do needlework but I wish I'd have paid better attention to some of her recipes, espcially baking. She made cookies with icing that I've never seen again after she passed on. Her house looked like a museum to me as a kid. Loved hanging out with her

-donna

Good to see you back, Ray
-d

Ohhhhhhh Sunday morning. That's the day we would wake up to the smell of garlic and onions frying in olive oil (Filipo Berrio) As we layed in bed, we could hear the hiss as the crushed tomatoes were dropped in the pan. There was nothing better than Gentile Italian bread dipped in a pot of gravy. Sunday would not be complete without going to Mass. But GOD help us if we didn't fast before Communion. For me, as it was for many second and third generation Italians (Scilians)who grew up in the 60's 70's and 80's there was a definte distinction in-between US and them. There was no animosity involved in the distiction, no hard feelings...well, we were sure ours was the better way. My grandfather achieved his goal in coming to America and to New York and now his children and grandchildren are acheiving the same goals that are available to them, because we are Americans. My father lied about his age (17) to fight for this country during WWII. At one time people came to America to be Americans, now they come to America to be in America. I never covered my house with aluminium and I still wrap the fig trees in the winter. Just the way my grandfather would of wanted it. But I still always felt more like an Italian when my grandfather was alive.

I just got turned onto this site - great memories! I'm in southern California now, but nothing beats the memories of 86th street on a Saturday morning; the Benson Theater; Jahn's; those bike rides on the Bay (Korvettes and beyond the Verrazano); bowling at Three-Star Lanes; Honeymooner reruns on Ch 11 (WPIX); Football practice at New Utrecht (sorry Lafayette); and all the great friends I left behind - "hi" to all those who remember me!

Hi Shembre,,,

I remember you,, Glad i turned you on to this website,, DID you get my email>>WE have to talk more lol

I am 37 yrs old,and grew up around here my entire life.As I am reading all these wonderful entries I notice soooo many names of people I grew up with.Although I lived on Bay 19th between Crop&Shore, I always was at the newstand{JIMMY'S} on Bay 19th & Bath or next door,the lunchonette{steven tuccillo's mom owned it,or at Nick's store on Bay 16th on Bath Ave.there were so many great hangouts back then and great friends,many of whom had there first everything's with !!I can say wether we went to DesaVue or Wrong number or Hobnails or Pastels{JR WAS THE BEST BARTENDER}or Esplanade on Bay 50th or Some after hours we all have greaT Memories to share..I remember one of the more sad times for my friends and I was when John Polio died.I can think back now when we would be on the corner and he was such a sweet kid.always protected us girls if someone said something.in those days most people knew their place and knew not to screw with BATH AVE BOYS.The older ones set the path on what would be mostly great times but sadly and suddenly our boys started dying.up until then we were a great group of kids.then we lost Paulie Galino & many more.Some who were still here became Rats and disappointed us.THE ONE RULE WAS STICK TOGETHER ! I guess as a female I was lucky to not have been involved and was able to go on and become just a girl from bensonhurst who happened to have known so many Good guys From years ago ! I wouls say rest in peace to everyone we lost individually but it would take awhile..ok,off to make chicken parm with garlic bread !
mellissa

Hey Melissa - I can hardly say that everyone were a great group of guys. I mean, lets face it. Bath Avenue did have the wrong crowd who ended up wacking people on demand. I wouldn't call these people "great guys". Many are doing time right now. Kids I use to go to dyker heights with. Kids I use to cut out of class with. These great guys are now in jail. And believe me, it wasn't because they stoled candy from the candy store. Everyone has chosed a path to follow. Feel blessed that you chose the right path. Many of these great guys did not. As for the Rats...What are they telling? That so and so did a killing???? Since when is that a bad thing?

I'm trying to make a point and I am not doing such a great job at it. And I know I will hear back from the group. But, for the first generation Americans, think back to why your family came to the USA and ended up in Bensonhurst. Think back to how hard your Father worked and at times your mother too. Going to work as a seamstress for some. They did not do this to one day visit their precious child in the state pen. I could go on and on, but it starts to sound like blah...blah...blah..

Melissa,

Didn't a girl Marianne live on your block? she actually lived closer to cropsy on bay 19th. She had a brother too. I forgot her last name though.....

yes maryanne was and still s one of my best friends .her brothers name is dominick& he is married with kids.she is still single and lives in staaten island..

I dont want to seem as if I defend people who dont abide by the law but I know that i can say who am I to judge and also I wasnt perfect myself growing up with guys who dont exactly earn minimum wages for a living but what is done is done & for those I am still friends with who have done wrong paid the price and now live like everyday people married with kids and a house on the island.now, for some I know who are in jail or dead, what can I say accept it is their business what path they choose,I chose a diff one,but being a girl it was just diff and if you really gre up here in bensonhurst you would at least know this even if you dont agree you would have seen THIS reality here in THIS area.I fully know these things dont happen in many other places ,if anywhere else but I LIVE here not in a burb town in Idaho or Oregon.I am proud of where I come from,it made me the strong person I am..
AND I AM PROUD OF KNOWING GUYS THAT MAY NOT BE PERFECT BUT THEY ALWAYS HAVE BEEN THERE FOR ME!!

I just wanted to say that when I grew up in Bensonhurst there were no killings or gang fights that ended in deaths, the only time we ever said kill is when were got caught stealing candy at the corner candy store and they called our parents and we knew we were gonna get killed when we got home. Bensonhurst was a safe place but I guess the next generation just went too far, how could you call this good times, I have sons that are 37 & 35 and that's the age of some of you kids, you call these good memories? I think not, I feel sorry for some of you who have no clue what it was really like back then, I know some of you will reply and not be too happy about what I said but it is the truth and anyone who lived in Bensonhurst in the 50's & 60's know's what I am saying is the truth.

Maryanne has a cousin who was (and I assume still) married to Mark P.

If you see maryanne, say hello from me (not that she'll have a clue who I am)

her cousin is Kim,I will be sure to say Peter said Hi{peter who,she will say }lol..

Bensonhurst is still safe. Not sure where all of you live, but there are no gang fights or killings. I was born in Bensonhurst in 1958 and lived there my while life. As a young teen in the early 70's we had a great time. Everyone knew everyone on the block and we were out in the summer from morning to night playing on the block. In the late 70's when I was in my late teens and approaching adolecence, we still hung out on the corners, went to clubs, and never bothered anyone. We did have neighborhood wise guys and we all knew people, but they didnt bother us. Many in fact were politically connected and kept the neighborhood safe. There were always some kids who may have taken a wrong turn into drugs or crime, but that is true in any neighborhood. I know there were gangs in the 50's as well. Most people that leave Brooklyn always seem to say that the area was getting to bad for them to stay so they packed up and left for Staten Island, New Jersey, Florida, Arizona, or wherever. There may not be as many Italians as there once was, as they were replaced by the Russians and Asians, not to metion the Arabs, but thats life. Bensonhurst was always a blue collar area where immigrants at that time seem to end up. I still live in Brooklyn and would not give it up. It still builds character and its a great place to live, offering many different things.

Anyone knew Steve Rega? I think thats how you spell it. Used to hang out on Bay Pkwy.

does anyone remember a guy named Dominick? he went to Xaverian and is probably in his early-mid forties now. His dad was a bricklayer and i think one of his brothers followed in his footsteps. Another brother became a dentist I think. Anyway, we used to hang out on 86th st all the time and a few of us are looking to get together for a reunion. Dom, if your out there, you can look me up in the phone book - I still live on Bay 26th street. Otherwise, if anyone can let me know, it would me much appreciated. thanks!

Tony.
i agree with you,, people make it sound like it was so bad ,, i also grew up in the 70zzzz and was born 1959 , bklyn was the safest. i use to walk home from romeos and juliets at 4 in the morning all by myself because I Knew It Was SAFE, and let me tell you there were guys who hung out in there little clubs on the ave and that made it safer,maybe it was the 80s that you people are talking about and even still BROOKLYN was never bad.Its not like we had shoot outs, ok so a couple a of guys took the wrong road hell i grew up with 1 he was my best friend back in the day I never would have thought we use to catch bees together now hes in jail for along time it doesnt make me hate him for it.I think this site is meant to talk about the neighborhood and memories.THings change Its like that all over nothing good ever lastssss forever its like taht everywhere just be thankfull we grew up in the best area any kid could ever gorw up in,, ANd let me tell you im very street smart from living in BrooKlyN,,,

Well tony 70zzzz they were GOOD wernt they >>>>>

Mellisa,

Believe it it or not, I think I know you too. We may have been in the same class at PS 163. But I doubt you can ever guess who I am. It's been ages. More like lifetimes ago.

Marianne will get the hint when you tell her that she once approached me on the subway(18th ave) and I Did NOT recognize her. If she still doesn't know, I'll give her another hint :-)

Bath Ave Girl, Back in the 70's when I'd come home from Bay Ridge pretty late, the driver of the B1 (which may have been the 35? back then) use to stop on the corner where I lived, let me, out and watch me get to my house even though the actual bus stop wasn't for another block yet.

Bath Ave Girl - The 70'zzz were the best. Had my brown leather waist jacket with my shirt collar out, and dont forget the Christ Head with the rope chain. Was I cool or what ! We also all had our leather bomber jackets for just hanging out. I loved that thing..

Riche I went to Xaverian and graduated in 1976. The Dominick I knew had a last name of Oddo and was big into football sheets. Not sure if that is the guy you were looking for.

Donna,, I KNOW i use to call stacys alot they use to know me better than my parents did lol ,,

Tony I use to dance all night in all the clubs not a care in the world Bay Ridge was the place to be uhhhh. Then of course shoot over to the Veags diner or maybe the bagel place by seamens,then go over to 2020 lol....

Tony, not the same guy, but thanks anyways....yea I had the Christ head with the rope chain too, along with the gold horn and the upside down hand with the index finger and pinkie pointing downward...and my leather jacket was like a dark maroon, it was so cool to have those back then. Used to wear it with one of my velour V-necks, lol. I remember for my confirmation my parents took me to buy a suit and I wanted a white one with a vest (3-piece)along with a black shirt. They said no so I had to settle for powder-puff blue. How many of us out there had "Disco Jeans"? Remember the label on the bacK? LOL..............

I went to p.s. 163 & i have to say i still used to see Mr.depaola at bay 8th park playing tennis& i went to Dyker Heights jhs . i still see mr.lacoshia,he is asst principal now..i hung out with all the ole bath ave who went there at the same time.let me know if any of you read these and post some memories of the good ole days!!

Bath Ave Girl, Yes Stacy's met all our transportation needs. When I was in Lafayette, all the kids on my block would chip in and call a car every morning to take us to school. I was the only hippie in the bunch but it didn't matter .. I contributed to keeping the cost down, lol

You know when my Dad passed away, the owner of Stacy's rang our bell with a gift for us. That was so sweet.

DOnna,,
that does not suprise me about stacys.They were great.Wish my kids had what we had right lol.

Bath Ave Girl, It was special, wasn't it? My son reads this board and you all have been back up to my 'old school' BK stories ... thanks :-)

I was talking to Paul from Randazzo's in Sheepshead Bay not long ago about old Brooklyn. We all share something pretty special

Donna,,
My daughter also shes 15 loves bklyn i live in jersey now and she knows alot of staten island kids who are from bklyn or parents are from there she reads all these stories also and loves the old disco and hears all my stories and she wished grew up in my day lol ...

One time i got jumped in Manhattan coming home from work in SoHo. Did some damage to them and got away but had to jump off train at a unfamliar stop way downtown B'klyn. Called Stacy's told them what happened, gave them a street name ...they got a car out there faster then nuttin and brought me back to the hood

Melissa - Anyone know if Danny Paulson is still alive? He used to be the school bully

Created a website specifically for bensonhurst. check it out and would love to have some post and pics from everyone.

/bensonhurst11223/

Anyone now Benny Recca (sp)? He has (or did a few years ago)a bar in queens and moved out to massapequa years ago? Thanks. Also, I've asked before and please ignore if you don't know, but a Tommy Ocera?? Just curious.

tony
Tried to go to ur website but its not coming up

Bath Ave Girl this website wont let me post the address but I will try again, it is a work in progress. Thought it would be fun to have a dedicated Bensonhurst - Brooklyn page. Try going to a site called freewebs than look for bensonhurst11223. let me know if that works

Created this website just for Bensonhurst Brooklyn. Would live all your post on this site.

http://www.freewebs/bensonhurst11223/

please addd .com after freewebs above

There was a poolroom that was on the same block as Jahn's (closer to Bay Parkway) right about National Shoes. Alba's Poolroom. I'm his daughter. My dad used to let me come up before the poolroom opened, but I had to leave before. National Shoe's had a fire and the poolroom went with it. My dad is 87 years old, doing well, and has many fond memories of those years.

I grew up in gravesend on van sicklen st went to st simon and jude ps 95 boody and lafayette. friends joey liquori and james carmine paul and greg mcgowan mike and joey ricca john caggiano sal philip claudia lombardo rose cerillo the lopopolos skyas. miss waking up during football season and going to ps 95 and playing all day and going back to joeys house to watch the games slap me mother was shouted a few times by vinny with his bottle of diet soda.during the summer though we played ball all day off the wall fast pitch box baseball slow pitch bases baseball could you play the wall the air conditioners. then we would go to pizza park make fun of manny and fat joe.how can i forget enzo he was like a little brother to me. wiffle ball after dinner and football under the lights joey was the best QB oh eddie sagese and the bomb.we had great times growing up there wonder if anyone still lives there.well leaving my email add maybe we could get some kind of reunion together.

paulie masha by the way my email address sman9852@aol.com

wasnt there a pool hall right across the st from jahns it was downstairs I think and then later they opend some kind of work out place upstairs.

Nice going down memory lane. Good to hear from Ray and Robert.
R.Amato

Does anyone remember Moms Candy store? St. Bernadette's Summer Bazaars? They were the best.
Sr.Almarina of St. B goes back to 1966,

Peter, What years did you go to 163, I also went there?

PS 163, Danny Paulsen? Haven't heard that name in a while, had brothers and one sister I believe, lived on the corner of Bay17th. I know one of the brothers was in upstate new york in a faciltiy for troubled kids, but that was eons ago. Dont' know where any of them are now.

Mary D. I went to school with your sister Debbie, I remember you very well.

It's always a pleasure to get back to this site and catch up on the postings of Bensonhurst, especially about Bath Ave / Bath Beach.

Comments about PS 163 were great. I attended early to mid 60's. Mr Kane the principal, teachers Mrs. Wilkinson, Mrs Flaherty - remember once she marched the whole class over to St Finbar's for Mass. Do that today and the ACLU lawsuits would be flying. If I'm correct Mr. DiGiacomo was a shop teacher. When any of the wiseguys got out of line, he's toss a chisel and it embedded in wood inches from their heads. They quieted down real quick after that. Do that now, more lawsuits. So many others whose names escape me at the moment. But they were good teachers.

Also Dyker Hts JHS brings back memories. The best teacher there was Mr. Gdula. In Dyker, Italian Bensonhurst mixed it up with the Irish and Scandanavians from Bay Ridge. But mostly we all got along.

Went to Lafayette HS 1969-1972. Some good teachers and some bad. The worst were the really young ones, who wanted to be our buddies and not our mentors, like the radical types who were always hitting on their female students. Do that now and they'd be in a police line-up. No metal detectors, no security officers and no rapes then. But then the Marlboro Houses had mostly working people and the troublesome element was still in the minority. Now it's a zoo and it brought Lafayette down with it. One last note about Lafayette. They had power on the baseball diamond, but fell flat on the gridiron. I don't recall that Lafayette ever won Thanksgiving Turkey Bowl game against New Utrecht, ever.

Grew up on 17 Ave & Bath Ave. 3 generations living in the same house. Max owned the grocery store on the corner in the 70's. Before him it was owned by Nat in the late 60s and before him for about 30 years, by old man Glatter. Across Bath from the grocery, was Herbie's candy store. He ran it with his wife and son for about 40 years. Lately it's a Russian food store. Move across 17 Ave and you have Dolinsky's drug store, still there since 1916. Ira, the kid who used to deliver for old man Dolinsky owned it for the last 25-30 years. The last corner had Michaels Reliable - I think it was floor coverings and tiles. Other stores on Bath were Feders clothing, Gentiles -best pastry and Italian ice, Ambassador camera shop, a Sicilian bakery that sold great square slices. Next to Max was a Italian social club, then Joe's butcher, then a hardware store. On the corner of Bath and Bay 16 was a dry cleaners then another candy store run by an old Italian guy, Mr. C? On Bath and Bay 17 Bohacks supermarket, later a Thrifty beverage. On Bath and 18 Ave, an A&P, later Aiello's. Right across was Pearson's hardware. Then was St. Finbars parish and across, the funeral parlor, Daniel George. Then the 62 Pct.

Hearing about the stores and clubs and good times is fun. The friends we made last forever. I'm still in touch with guys I knew since the mid 1960s.

But I think the over romanticizing the criminal element is a bit much. Yes there were many wiseguys in the neighborhood and we all knew and/or were related to many of them. Yes it's good to stand by your friends too. But let's not make like they were heroes. Yeah, when we were kids they were so cool. But most of us posting here are in their 30' 40' and 50's, so let's have a mature perspective - we should know better.

Now, so many of those local icons are in jail, dead or better off dead. In the final analysis, they were more stupid than cool. Want proof - how many posting here would want their own kids to get into fights, shootings, assaults, gangs, drug pushing, prostitution, burgularies, numbers, loan sharking and fencing stolen goods. Well enough moralizing for one Sunday afternoon.

Hey Ave U Girl! I lived on Ave U and West 7th from 1950 to 1973.......If you have a chance, email me.....I now live on Long Island, but I miss Ave U terribly. my name is camille and my email is KABROD@optonline.net

Paul, your a little older than me, but we still remember the same places. Max's store, used to buy the Bazooka for 1 penny, Dolinskis, Gentiles, Michaels, I remember them all. I grew up on 17th between bath and benson, went to 163, late 60's, early 70's. But the memories are all still there.

Paulie,

Manny had a cute girlfriend at that time, Debbie. I wonder if they ever got married.

Is pizza park still there? Is it still the same?

OMG, Paul you nailed the whole Bath Ave, I remember the candy store next to the cleaners off Bay 16th, real old guy, he had the these little metal cars (Police and Fire) cut up your fingers, LOL. And Mr. Gadula (spelling) from 201 real good guy. remember Ms. Vatrano? Mr. Falcone? had the corvair! Oh God Bohacks! and I remember Max on 17the ave and bath, had a mane of white hair. Great Post. And Hello to Ralph A.

Foe everyone taht went to JHS 201 - Mrs. Brenner is still the principal!

Robert

Your memory is better than mine. I remember Mr Pappas and Mr Comito. Perhaps it was Mr Comito at Dyker Hts who had those great interpersonal skills, ie involving throwing the wood chisel at rowdy students? Was the principal of Dyker Hts Mrs Brenner or Mrs Brennan? There was a typing teacher named Mrs. Sing. I remember riding the B64 bus from the corner of Bath and Bay 16 and getting off at 86 St and 13 Ave, and walking the hill. It cost a nickel with the school bus pass. And as I said before, John Gdula was the best teacher in the whole school.

Later on I went to Lafayette HS and took the B64 the other way. Still had the school bus pass and rode for 5 cents. My best friend went to Brooklyn Tech and had a subway pass, so we would occasionally swap.

Mr Cohen was the prinicpal at Lafayette. Other teachers I remember were Mr Brummer, Mr Perlman, Mr Neufeld, Mr Tufano, Mr Battaglia, Mr Blank, Mr Raab, Mr Medici, Mr Scheer.

Back to Bath Ave. Some other post mentioned Jerry's clothing store. Across the street from the candy store at Bath and Bay 16 was a barbershop. Also somewhere on Bath was Calabrese realty. Wasn't there West End Fuel on the corner of Bath and Bay 16. Around the corner from the dry cleaners on Bay 16 was a small apartment building. Most of the families there were black, but I don't recall there ever being racial trouble in Bensonhurst until many years later, when Al Sharpton came around.

More Bath Ave details, if you go back and find my post fron Sept 2.

Max's - Used to have to buy beer for Joe M. whenever my friends and I worked for him doing odd jobs around the neighborhood (circa 1977). Two six packs of Schaeffer and we had to make sure that they were cold and the tops were clean. I was only 14 or 15 at the time but Max used to sell it to us anyway because he know who it was for.

P.S. 163 - if you take a look at the side of the building on the 17th ave side and look 3/4 of the way up on the left you might still see a splotch of paint where I threw one of those model airplane paint bottles. I remember going back a few years later and the splotch was still there.

hello again,
i bumped into a bath av dinosaur" joe daddy" he is still kicking and still riding his harley. he asked me to post his address at 187 bay 11 and has missed the last two reunions and if anyone remembers him to write a note to him and please invite him to the next reunion.

HI JOHN M , ITS MARIA AND PAT ARE U ON HERE ALSO LOUISE TOLD US ABOUT THIS SITE, COOLLLLLLLLLLL

U ARE JOHNNY BOY RIGHT?

hi maria ,
well i'm johnny boy to some but i was mostly a low key hippie musician that knew all the wiseguys and all the hippies in the 60's and 70's. i'm a lil older than the johnny boy you are refering to . i come from bay 13 and bath and if you called stacey car service in 76 to 79 you most likely spoke to me,dino or carmine,then i went to work for a bottling co.
i was good friends with al moscola and we rebuilt shorehaven luncheonette on bay 25 and cropsey in abouut 77 or 78

John m,

My friends and I also helped Alfred rebuild the luncheonette. I was 15/16 or so at the time. Used to go there after school and on weekends. Picked up some Olde English 800 on the way over. Getting drunk and using power tools at the same time, not too bright, but I still have all 10 fingers thank god. Alfred used to keep a bottle of gin hidden in the bathroom and by the end of the night it was pretty much all gone. Man, that guy could drink. After we finished rebuilding, I worked behind the counter washing dishes for awhile. I'm curious, do you know if he is still alive? How about his father Joe M.?

We probably crossed paths at one point in time since I hung out with the guys from Bay 14th and Bath and sometimes Bay 16th.

Melissa, Thanks for sticking up for Bath Ave. I hung out with them all. I was mostly on 20th and 86 but grew up with them all. They were the best and looked out for there own. Everyone makes mistakes and some of them did but most of the wrong people went away. The guys who were killed I know most of them didn't deserve it. I still live in the area and still see some of the guys from Bath.

Hey R M,
Did you ever find that "Hendrix at Randalls Island" tape yet?
J M hooked me up to this site. Thanks for mentioning it to him!
T G

I WENT TO DYKER AND WENT TO SCHOOL AND HUNG OUT WITH MOST ON BATH AVE,I STILL SEE SOME OF THE GUYS AND WHEN WE GET TOGETHER WE TALK ABOUT ALOT THAT WENT ON AND I HAVE TO SAY THAT ALTHOUGH YES SOME DID TIME ,SOME GOT KILLED & SOME HAVE WENT ON TO MARRY AND HAVE KIDS..THE ONES WHO ARE MY FRIENDS ARE MY FRIENDS TILL THE END NO MATTER WHAT.THE AREA HAS CHNAGED AND WE ARE WELL AWARE OF THAT BUT IT HASNT CHANGED BECAUSE OF SOME BAD APPLES IT HAS CHANGED CAUSE THE YOUNGER KIDS BRING IN ALL THE SLOP OF THE TOWN.THESE KIDS RECK OUR NEIGHBORHOOD AND HAVE NO RESPECT FOR OUR PEOPLE OR PROPERTY.I WALK HOME & SEE THE GIRLS ACTING LIKE THERE FROM GETTO'S..US BATH AVE GIRLS WERE NEVER LIKE THAT .WE STUCK WITH OUR OWN,AND PROTECTED WHAT WAS OURS.I LIVE HERE AND SEE WHAT GOES ON ... IT IS A SHAME..YEA,WE HUNG OUT ON CORNERS AND YEA WE WERE LOUD SOMETIMES WITH MUSIC OR HAVIN A GOOD TIME, BUT WE DIDNT GRAFFITI.WE DIDNT LOOK TO START TROUBLE.WE DIDNT THINK WE WERE ALL GANSTERED UP.IN ALL HONESTY IF YOU WERE,YOU DIDNT LET IT BE KNOWN..I THINK OF WHAT WAS TOUGH AND HOW BACK THEN WE WERE BASICALLY GOOD KIDS.IF YOU WERENT THERE THEN OTHER PEOPLE HAVE NO IDEA..I CONSIDER MYSELF LUCKY TO HAVE EXPERIENCED ALL I DID AND WOULDNT CHANGE IT FOR THE WORLD.I ONLY WISH SOME OF THE PEOPLE NOT HERE TODAY,WERE HEAR TO SAY THE SAME..
R.I.P ~
JANE-MARIE RUSSO
GEORGIE ADAMO
JOHN POLIO
PAULIE GALINO
TONY BOLINO ....
I COULD GO ON & ON BUT I WILL LET EVERYONE ELSE COMMENT AND POST THERE THOUGHTS

SINCERELY,
MELLISSA
BAY 19th

SORRY ABOUT THAT JOHN M , I THOUGHT U WERE SOMEONE I KNEW THAT ALSO CAME FROM BATH AVE

I am 30 years old and I still live on Bay 16th and 86th steet.

Does anyone remember the coffee/candy store on bath ave and 17th ave. street. An old lady and man ran the joint.
My grandmother always bought fresh ground coffee and lots of candy for me there.
It was across the street from Aiellos.
Who remebers yo yo bread from Ailellos.

I remember Krasner's candy store on 15th and 86 st. before it became Hal and Buddy's,
The Delux theater (anybody confess to going there in their youth? lol)
Before Paul and Josie owned the candy store on 14th and 86 st., an old woman owned it. The one thing that burned in my memory banks was the first time I saw a Halocaust tatoo. It was on her arm!
I worked at Yee Olde Pancake House on 16 ave and 86 st. and the Mangia Booth as a teen. Remember the drug sweeps by the cops on weekends?
Dyker Park and 14 ave was nortorious in those days also.
Running barefoot in the golf course at night was surreal.
I was a friend of Charlie and Ike from the Record Factory.
Just an aside, anyone remember Bananafish Park and Bananafish Garden?
I can go on, but at a later date...
This site is amazing!
T G

TG

I can't recall the woman's name yet who had the store before Paul & Josie but give me time. This stuff usually comes to me when I'm driving or washing dishes. I can't picture her but I remember my Mother talking about the tattoo

If you knew Charlie & Ike you must know Richie C who managed the store. He was a drummer ... Think he may have played with Wayne County's band for a while early on.

And if you've left teh area. the golf course is looking different from what you remember. They took down many trees to make a junior golf course. Must have stirred up alot of the wild life. It's not unusal to see racoons in the backyards and more bats than usual in the summer

OMG !!! YOYO BREAD FROM AIELLO'S !!I REMEMBER GOING IN THERE & BUYING IT FRESHLY FRIED ! THAT WAS EVEN BETTER THEN FRESH SEMOLINA BREAD FROM J & C BAKERY ON BATH AVE !!

http://www.forgotten-ny.com/STREET%20SCENES/moeshouse/moehouse.html

RAmato...
If this is Ralphie....Thanks for the info on the mason....I have him doing my front porch...He is going to start next week. Great guy.....pricy though....Hope he is worth it.

Hi Donna,
Her name was Helen! I moved back to my old neighborhood from Bay Ridge in '95.
Anybody remember what restaurant was next to Mr. Donut on 86 st between 14th anfd 15th?
Who bowled at Frankie and Johnny's which is now Macali Terrece?
La Rosa's bar on Bay 10th st.
Forman's Hardware?
Schneider's Drug store where a giant sign on the outside wall said "DRUGS FOR THE SICK"?
St. Frances Cabrini having rock concerts in the basement where, by the way The First Edition played. Battle of the bands?
All on 86 st.
R M's band and mine played a show on stage at the P.S. 201 auditorium during school hours. Had to play hooky that day!
T G

hey bob,
alfred did have a serious alcohol problem and i did a lil too. but i could see what it was doing to us and stopped drinking myself except for an occasional beer now and then.last iheard alfred had cancer that was in remission as of 5 years ago. have not seen or heard from him in years. i ssen joe about 1 1/2 years ago and he really looked old and very tired but was still drinking his beer.i had alfred as one of my best men at my wedding and rich m as my other .alfred and i were always in trouble in and out of school. we caught more beatings but were outnumbered most of the time.p.s. we also gave a few beatings hands only.we had the whole football team at lafayette after us and they caught us once in awhile,,,but we gave it back to them in many ways.finally they "lafayette" decided that alfred and i were a menace to all that attended school we terrorized everyone lol they sent alfred to F.D.R. and i left soon after that to play music in conneticut.
but if any one knows of alfred or his condition please let us know.....thanks all

Who remembers the pony ride and the Whip for 50 cents? What about the guy playing the banjo on the corner of Bay Parkway and 86th. Then there was skippy's news stand.

The West End Line was opened on October 5, 1863 as a steam dummy road[1], the Brooklyn, Bath and Coney Island Rail Road (BB&CI), to serve the communities between the Brooklyn city line and Bath Beach. At 11:00 on June 8, 1864, the extension to Coney Island was opened to the public, making it the first steam railroad to bring beachgoers from downtown Brooklyn. At the Brooklyn end, the steam line ended at 36th Street and Fifth Avenue, where the BB&CI's own horsecars ran to a connection with horsecars of the Brooklyn City Railroad at 25th Street and Fifth Avenue. The odd double transfer was made necessary by Brooklyn's refusal to allow the line to operate steam cars within its city limits.

The road took its common name from the area of its terminal on Coney Island, where a hotel of the same name, but unconnected to the railroad, existed. Its terminal was known as West End Terminal, a name which survived upon major rebuilding in 1919 as New West End Terminal before that name fell into disuse.

TG, I remember La Rosa's bar. Sometimes I'd go there with my Grandpa & a pitcher to get beer that he'd bring home with a bag of nuts and we'd watch baseball. Diehard Mets fan ... boy the words I learned when they weren't doing well :-)

A bowling alley on 86th between 15th & 16th that is now a caterer?? I can only picture that as open fields when I was very little. We use to fly kites there.

Heh Doc Schneider was so cranky but I liked the way he use to wrap items in brown paper rather than using a bag and medicine was put into cobalt blue bottles. I still have a few. I don't think Schneider liked children. I liked Jerry Badiner better who had the pharmacy on Bay 7th & 86th. He use to play ball with the kids when he wasn't busy

Helen's .... yes that was it. I also remember when the corner of the 19th Hole was where the 64 bus used to stop. Then they moved it across the Avenue

Does anyone remember the Rossmango's from Bensonhurst Brooklyn. I Read most of these posts and remember most of the places mentioned here. I went to St. Marys and New Utrecht.

Anyone go to St. Edmunds? Around 1978-1982 and or Horizons in Dance?

Hey Cropsey $ Bay 10th, thanks for the history, but I thought talking about Bensonhurst in the 50's was a little to far back for me. Now we are back in the 1860's. What happened to the 70's & 80's at least in my lifetime. Born in 1967.

Yo Tommy, of course I have the Jimi Hendrix Randalls Island tape! In fact its on CD now! The restaurant next to Mr Donut was Mr. Burger! And Yes I used to bowl at Frankie and Johnnys every saturday morning. I still remember the juke box and the songs on it! I used to play Runnig Bear by Johnny Preston all the time! LOL. Helen and Dave (before Josie and Paul) had a son named Saul who used to ride his bike around the neighborhood all the time. Before Helen it was MOLLYS! Hey Donna, I also liked "Doc" Badiner better than Schneider. AND Tommy the sign on the side of 15th and 86th said "Everything For The Sick". We wanted to name out first album that! LOL. Get yer tail outta the house and come and see BACK TO THE FILLMORE on Feb 3rd on Staten Island at The Gecko Lounge.

Hey Richie,
You're Rght! The words came back to me right after I sent it.
No one believes me about entering the "surface of the moon" during our Natural Museum "trip"!
I still rember when you first drove your dad's car after recieving your fisrt driver's license. I forgort who the others were in the car. Maybe Paulie H
We had great times together and still managed to survive. Going to Woodstock with you guys would have been the icing on the cake (right after the Fillmore ticket)!
Looking foward to seeing ya Feb. Don't forget the CD!
Anyone from Polstiein's Restaurant on 13th avenue? Now it's a Hardware store.
Speak to y'all later...
T G

bzymomx03

My sister Debbie is doing great, She owns a day care center on Bath ave,, She's good, I'm not sure who u r , But Debbie is doing good

Jimmy
Mike M Died several years ago. Sammy M is married and doing well.
Jim
Greg A .is doing good, I just seen him today. He works in my building right now..

Peter
We all had to learn the 50 states in Mr Digiamos class.

Robert
I just went to resturant that Carl Binis wife now owns in Staten Island.

I haven't been on this site in a while.. But it is nice reading the new posts..My brother John D knew him and his wife very well.

Mellissa,
you're right about the kids bringing in friends from outside the neighborhood. Recently, I've been getting home from work with kids hanging out on my steps at night; Even after telling them nite after nite to go down the block.

ANd I could tell you this, they are NOT fron the neighberhood. They all where condoms on their head.....

Paula
when i was living in brooklyn, all the girls that went to st.edmunds were sluts.

p.s. i went to kearney

Anyone from Bath ave from the late 80's ro 90's

YOYO BREAD FROM AIELLO'S holy sh.t wow

I grew up on bath ave in the best times everrr ,80's -90's.. everything was Great ..Music,People,Cars,Sound systems for cars ..lol..I was lucky to have the friends I did ,no matter what they did as "THE GUYS" I was never excluded,being i was like one of them..lol..I would love to hear from them .I lived on Bay 19th but Always hung on bay 16th or 14th ave by the Hunan Wok..Then on weekends we would all cruise the L ..and sometimes land on places like Pastel's,Turquoise & plenty of after hrs..keep writing and we will eventually reconize eachother ..lol

Not sure about who were sluts, St. Edmunds vs Bishop Kearney, but Fontbonne Hall girls were the cutest!

What about Rice Balls from Hy Tulip (always sucked at spelling)....

St Bernadette had the best looking girls

Adam Monti - this is Sally Lincoln from the avenue - I posted a message on Jan 1...do I know you

I lived on Bay 16 and cropsey for 19 yr i know a few Mellissa. I am assuming from some of the names you mentioned that you are about 36 or 37. GEORGIE ADAMO
JOHN POLIO
PAULIE GALINO
I was in the next crew of bath ave . I'm now 34

Mellissa,

are you still in Brooklyn?

How did Georgie Adamo die?

YEA,Georgie was stabbed to death,he went down a very wrong path but was always a best friend to me,even when he was messed up..I am 37 now but will never forget the awesome times at THE LEGION ON BATH AVE,I HUNG OUT THERE AND ENDED UP WORKIN THE BAR FOR AWHILE.WE PROBABLY KNOW EACHOTHER THRU ONE PERSON OR ANOTHER..LOL

SALLY LINCOLN..DIDNT YOU HANG WITH PHIL YOUNG YRS BACK & MANNY'S BROTHER JOEY WITH THE WHITE CADI?IF SO YOU GUYS CAME A FEW TIMES TO MY HOUSE PARTIES ON BAY 19TH BETWEEN CROPSEY & SHORE ..LOL

Mellissa,

I know your name. I knew you lived on Bay 19th (at least back in the 5th grade). But I would never recognize you now. It's been a life time...So it seems.

ARe you married?

HI! MARRIED SOMEONE FROM BATH AVE,BUT I AM DIVORCED 3 YRS & HAVE A 9 YR OLD SON.I GO TO GREG'S SOMETIMES FOR DRINKS WITH MY FRIENDS & STILL KEEP IN TOUCH WITH SOME PEOPLE FROM P.S. 163 & DYKER HEIGHTS..AND YES I STILL LIVE IN BKLYN,AND I HAVE MY OWN BUSINESS,SO I KEEP PRETTY BUSY THESE DAYS,BUT ALWAYS UP TO SEEING PEOPLE I KNEW WAY BACK WHEN ..LOL
MELLISSA.A

Yo Tommy, yeah 19 of us "dropped" for the first time Election Day 1967 and went to The Museum of Natural History and the Plantetarium! WOW, what a trip! How funny was that Porcupine behind the window? We called it "The Bitch". Rolling on the Floor Laughing in the middle of the museum. Those were the days. Yeah, the moon surface in the planetarium, where we should'nt have been. The exhibit wasn't opened yet. We walked behind the black walls. Holy cow, what great memories.
Love Ya.
Richie

Mellissa,

Always nice to hear good outcomes from Bath Avenue. I mean, owning your oun business. What kind of business do you have?

As for divorce, well, you were blessed with a Son :-)

Have you mentioned me to Maryanne M. Yet??

Mellissa

Who are you i cant figuire it out. Were is your biz. Gorege was killed in front of my house on cropsey ave

I actually hated St. Edmunds so I don't care what people thought. I did HS in 3 years and went to St. Francis College anyone go there? Had to be like 1982-83 Freshman.

Some great photos' of Bath Beach & Bensonhurst.

http://www.brooklynpix.com/catalog15.php?locality_no=10401

Thanks for the link to Brooklyn pix. Nice to see what things were like back then. Would bu nice to actually see the beach in Bath beach before the homes were built.

Anyone ever heard of these names.....Whatever happen to them?

Thomas Reynolds
Joey Calco
Michael Lewis,
Antonio Fama
Sal Manzo
Louie Defillipo
Dougie Timko

Went K. to Grade 6 to PS 229. 1955 to 1961. Had Miss Tice Kindergarten, Miss Littenburg, Ms Cassidy (who spent more time in library than class) Miss Romeo and Ms Lennon. Ms Heffernan was the principal and a special "teachers staircase" with gold brass railing . Girls did Maypole Dance in Prospect Park on May 1st. I lived on Bay 11th and Bath. I remember Miceli's,Chicks, Jerry's, of course Gentile's pastry shop with the best ices which we bought every sunday on the way home from St Finbars. Bath Ave had the best fireworks on 4th of July . Moved in 1962 to Long ISLAND but cherish all my Brooklyn memories. Love this website!!

Annmarie,

I hung out with Tommy a few times back in the day. Don't know what happened to him either. Isn't Joey Calco dead? Or was that his brother?

Melissa - no I never hung out with Phillip Young or his guys from Cropsey Park, Bath Ave & Bay 23rd - My wife Patty Pucciarelli (one of the twins) hung out with them - I mainly cruised on 86th street in my Champange colored Lincoln with friends from up there

Hey everyone, thats right, I'm one of the twins from the neihborhood (sister is Paula Pucciarelli) we are the younger sisters of Danny Pooch - famous DJ to those who know of him. We hung out on 86th street mostly but started in Cropsey Park with Phillip Young and the guys and Bay 23rd and Bath - hung out with alot of people on 86th street including: From 25th Avenue: Guy Mastalone, Eddie Catalano, Joe and Ricki Rich, Kim Marsala, Richie Canatta, Little Jackie..From the parking lot on Bay 26th and 86th: Elaine Webber and all the Webber brothers, Steve Skates, Sally Lincoln, Frankie Blue, Frankie Funhouse, Marcus, Robyn Romano, Debbie Mouth and now husband Meon - the whole crew from the FUNHOUSE, Heatwave, 718...Because we are twins everyone knew us...we were the only twins in the neighborhood. I ended up marrying Sally Lincoln 22 years later if you could IMAGINE that...We still go back all the time just to cruise around and relive our memories in our heads..THERE IS NO PLACE LIKE HOME.....

Mary D

what is the name of the Restaurant Carl Bini's wife owns?

oh wow ,when I hear places like the FUNHOUSE ,I cant help to to get flashbacks.up until recently I would see Joe Monk{the owner}..as far as Heatwaves..Remember seeing Shannon open up for Madonna there? it was a blast..I know that GEORGIE BEACH BUM'S uncle owned it ..and when you said the name KIM MARSALA all I could think of was the ESPLANADE on BAY 50th.. boy those really were the days.I was lucky to have worked at S&J Cosmetics on 20th ave & 86th st for 9 yrs ,so I met so many people to hang out with.. i dont know what was better,LENNY'S PIZZA or UNCLE BOBBY'S BAGELS..LOL..
and we cant forget all our friendly towtruckers at that time letting us girls ride Shotgun !!!
FESTER {CARRERA TOWING}
PETER & DOOLY {GANNON}
JOEY GRECO{GANNON}
ANGELO {WORKED FOR A FEW DIFF ONES}

AND REMEMBER THE STATION B91???
THEY WORKED OUT OF KINGSBOROUGH COLLEGE AND LET US ALL CALL IN TO MAKE DEDICATIONS..THE STATION RAN FROM MAYBE 1984 TILL 1988.

Hey Patricia,

Did you know a kid George that used to stay with a guy named Jeff. He used to hang out at the Funhouse & Heatwaves back in the 80's?

M, NAME OF REST IS CALLED CARL VINCENTS ON HYLAN AVE IN SI

You talking about Georgie Marola{Genine marola's brother}he had dark hair and a moustache and hung out all over bensonhurst,but lived in dyker heights area..also ,we all hung out with Debbie Mo.. she actually babysat me when I was like 6 yrs old..If ya didnt know debbie ,ya didnt know anyone..lol
Mellissa{ missy.A }originally from bay 19th

Hung out on bath ave for many years. I saw a few die i saw some rat i saw some get married and have kids> I love my old neighborhood. The only one thing i would change, THE RATS THAT PUT MY FRIENDS AWAY.

No he lived on Stillwell ave. & he used to hang out on Kingshwy. stood with a guy named Jeff alot.

Hey Bath Ave,

Is that the ONLY thing you would change??? The rats that put your friends away????

Can you bring back the people they wacked??? The family members would love to have them back again. Especially the children.

Great neighborhood. I was born..raised..and will die here. But the Mentality needs to change.

Hey Does anyone remember Joey "stinky" pants from Bensonhurst.. Damn did that guy stink

JJ

You are right that was insensitive of me. But the guys I was referring to were not involved to that extent.

I just found this web site and reading all of this is like being home again. I graduated from lafayette in 87, and went away to college in louisiana. I'm still out there but my whole family is still there. But like so many others they moved to staten island after about 60 years on bay 26. I remember quite a few names i've been seeing. I recognized pat pucciarelli. They used to live around the corner from me in the apt. building on 21st ave. lately the brooklyn bug hit me pretty hard. when I found this sight I couldn't resist. When you have been away as long as I have, and then go back every year for a visit, you see the drastic changes all at once. I was really upset and disgusted. I practically lived in cropsey park, and knew everyone there in the 80's from the 10 year old kids to the older guys playing handball. Your friends and neighbors were family. Living there wasn't just a place to live. It was an institution. It was a way of life. I am the person I am today because of that neighborhood. 86 th street, ps 200, cavallaro, lafayette, 21st ave, 24th ave. The memories can never be replaced. the people can never be duplicated. It's a shame my kids will never play stickball, punchball, kick the can, stoopball, hang out innocently at a place like 86 st. so close to home and safe yet you grew as a person there. There's no where else where you can do all your shopping in one spot and get fruit, shoes, jewelry, pizza, clothes, pizza, and anything else. oh yeah more pizza, and hot pretzels in front of g&g. I miss crystal city. How many groups did we see sing there? Is it possible to get everyone together and take that place back and put it in the hands it's supposed to be in? I can go on all night, there's so much I left out. Any baseball players from lafayette out there from 85-87?

To JJ and "Bath Ave",
I remember being told by my parents, "becareful on Bath Avenue", when I used to walk home from St. Finbar's (Catholicism) to 15th and Benson. But as I grew older and bolder, I built a good friendship with a lot of those people. Including Nicky Izzo (he go tme into the Lowes Oriental for free on many occasions).
Hey Richie,
I still remember watching the moon landing with you and your parents.
Mellissa,
My band played at the Esplanade Lounge in the early seventies.
I remember customers walking in wearing furs, and walking in again wearing different furs...in July!
They paid us in cash, so ...
Does anyone remember Mr. Papas (PS 201) selling the Custard Ice cream next to Nathan's during the summer? We enjoyed calling him names, knowing he couldn't fail us! He did have Great Custard though.
And Mr Testa (PS 201), working in Korvet's I think.
Speaking of PS 201, who remembers the teacher that had a record out (early '65?), a rendition of "Wise Men Say" (I think).
Who was on 86st. when they filmed "The French Connection"?
Does anyone from Lafayette HS know that the Three Stooges went there? All 4 of them!
And "The Honeymooners" used Bensonhurst as a backdrop?
Something to tell the tourists.
Coming back soon...
T G

HI M
I SEE ave u girl answered your question about the resturant. FYI... Carls wife's name is Kris

AVE U GIRL..
Thanks for helping me answer the question about The Resturant ( Carl Vincent)I been busy and really havent been on this site. The only thing Fyi is the Resturant is on Hyland Blvd.. Take care
Mary D

TG, The Forgotten NY site has an entire page on Bath Beach & The Three Stooges. Has images of the houses that Moe's father built. Do a Google search

The Honeymooners was the best ... because of that show we called every Chinese Restaurant "Hong Kong Gardens" lol

Sad note ... the old cemetery on 16 Ave recently had several more headstones damaged by a fallen tree on the 84th Street side. It's looking too bare these days.

Yo Tommy. The teacher at DHJHS 201 who sang was Mr Del Seni! His stage name was Don Dell. He was my Science teacher when he did "I Want You, I Need You, I Love You" an Elvis remake b/w "Make Believe Love" he was backed by The Montereys (Tony Giordano) on the Roman record label! I still have the single he gave out to the students! I also have a small signed Publicity Photo! We used to back him up in the Gym, at the dances when he made an appearance with our band The Genials! Many years later, I had a DooWop band with Tony Giordano, and I gave him copies of recordings he did with Tony Frog, that he thought were gone forever till he met me! Don't forget next Saturday The Gecko Lounge on Staten Island, YO WE HAVE A WEBSITE ON MYSPACE TOO. You can playsamples of the next CD onthere:
http://www.myspace.com/backtothefillmore

Anyone remember the name of the diner/restaurant on 86th st near 23rd Ave.

I have a bensonhurst website with pics of the neighborhood. If anyone is intersted it is
http://www. .com/bensonhurst11223/
put the name free webs (one word) in between the 2 dots above. For some reason the site blocks the name

freewebs between the www. .com above

Hey Richie,
I have a website too! "theyesterdays.com". My band is backing (vocally and instumently), Jim Yester from the "Association".
What were the odds of performing with the very songwriter that helped me get laid? Life is full of surprises!
Anyone who loves "Doo-Wop", check the site. So much for plugs,
It's still good to know that Bensonhurst is still pumping entertainers!
Anyone buy clothes from "The Patriotic Male" on 86st? I hand painted the roses on the denim pants and jackets. Peter Romeo is now the Lamp Doctor.
I remember Faruke (sic), on 14th ave. selling my friend a hotdog bun with mustard for 5 cents. He always looked sloppy, but, as a kid, the dogs and pretzels were great!
By the way, The Mangia Booth used to be the "Dairy Queen" They were the ones who filled the cone from the bottom up...not like "Mr. Softy" who filled the cone from the top down.
Hey John M,
You and Mike were the last guys I said to wait for me when I was drafted ('69) I'm finally playing with you, John, and it was worth the wait!
I guess I finished my ramblings for now...
T G

Back again,
Hey Richie,
Forgot to tell you that I brought my son (6yrs,. at the time), to the diorama with the porcupine. When I yelled "Bitch, bitch", he went laughing to the point of falling down.
Remember, when I worked at the Mangia Booth, you'd play your radio and we would guess what song was coming up in 3 or less notes?
Anyone remember Jerry "Manniquen"? He threw his voice one time at the Mangia Booth and convinced the cops (who were tossing us), that there was a guy stuck in a car trunk across the street, on the park side? They ran towards the hapless guy and the persons who were "carrying", got away!
Anyone remember the soccer game at Dyker Park that resulted in a riot (rev's bad call, he ran for his life), with hundreds of people running around 86st? The guys from the 19th Hole grabbed a few revellers and pulled them into the bar for their protection.
The "giavell" bleach guy who drove his truck around, and Nicky, the Good Humor guy who rode the bicycle version of the ice cream truck. He would give you free ice cream if you were short that day, and collect at the end of the week. Who does that nowadays?
Anyway, I thought I'd mention the thoughts before it was lost.
T G

Anyone know whatever happened to John Paul pedone from Bath Avenue?

Tommy G. I need your email address again. I tried the yesterdays website but I cant get it. Is it www.theyesterdays.com...? Won't work. Yeah I remember Nicky the ICe Cram man, his real name was Knickerbocker and he was a drunk. Used to park the Ice Cream cart outside the 19th Hole and go drinking! LMAO. We had some laughs huh? Gotta go back and try to find that Porcupine again bro. Hope to see you next week Feb 3 at the Gecko, or THIS Saturday Jan 27 I am playing with Frank Franco in Queens off the Cross Island Pkwy at a place called Fuzzys. Great band. Franco's daughter Kristy is a blues wailer in the Janis tradition. We do lots of Zep and Janis. www.fuzzyspub.com if you want to come. Its called "Cobrasnake Necktie"...LOL.
Rock On!
Richie Meli

For all....I am a proud new father, baby girl Re'Jeana Barbara born on 1/22/07...6lbs 15oz 19"long

Hey Richie,
Gave you wrong address (getting old I guess). It's www.theyesterdaze.com/index.html. We do all of the Association hits with Jim and 50's and 60's on our own. We work mostly in Jersey (Whiskey's Cafe in Lyndhurst on 2/24- www.whiskeycafe.com). Sorry, I can't make it this Sat. Say hello to Franco for me.

Congratulations Reggie! You better start to appreciate your sleep time while you can (LOL).

Got to get back to my drawings. Getting ready for the Bay Ridge Festival of the Arts show this spring.
Regards to all,
T G

Yo T-Goff. Very cool website dude! I gotta check you guys out someday. I still have "Along Comes Mary" single in my collection! A great early drug song! LOL
Richie

Hi everyone...I grew up in Bensonhurst. I lived in Contello Towers #2. We moved there when it was first built. I was 3 years old. When I think of how things were back then I could cry. It was so great...growing up in Bensonhurst. I went to P.S. 200, Joseph B. Cavallaro and Lafayette High School. I'm sure things have changed since then. I left Brooklyn to move to New Jersey 21 years ago and I still miss it so much!! My best friends are Michele, Iris, Abby, and Donna. We all grew up in Contello and are still best friends. Anybody remember us?

T G again,
Just a thought... I predict that when cars become hover crafts and fly, like in the movie "The 5th Element" (no need for roadways), the Gowanus "Expressway" repairs will finally be completed, once
and for all! Does that make me a psychic or an idealist?
From the "Amazing" T G.

TG, I take the Express Bus in everyday from Staten Island over the Gowanus. I can see your vision my brother. You are the Great "seer" I always knew you were. LOL.
RM.

Yo Tom, some of my fondest memories are of the scenes we had down your basement. The best was playing human 'checkers' with the 18"square patterns in the carpet down there. We actually used Jalopy (I think) as one of the pieces standing on the square and telling him where to move among the Kerosene lamps and ash tray's etc that were used in place of checkers. What a fucking riot.
Richie

Hmmm, human checkers .... the things I missed out on :-)

Hey Richie,
Remember the January we drove to Florida in your Riviera? My winter coat was stolen and we had no money to drive home. You traded your audio cassette tapes for gas and we stopped at a church for food and the priest there gave us a loan.
Yeah, I rember the fun we had in my basement. A bunch of us sat around and listened to the first Led Zep album you brought over one night and gave our critiques. Went to the Fillmore to see them open for Iron Butterfly.
Russo's, where The Genials and The Fuzzbugs recorded their very first singles.

Anyone go for a haircut at Noel's Barbarshop on 15 ave near 86st? He was a heavyset dude. We played hooky and hung out at the "Social Club" next door, along with Petey "Pecks" and Johnny D.

How'bout the guy who drove around in his truck sharpening knives and scissors?
This site really snowballed.
T G

Reggie..
Congratulations on the new baby. Best wishes

Yo Tommy, Noel never washed his hands. he smelled like ass all the time. LMAO. Yeah that trip to Florida was a gas gas gas. I brought Eugene his burnt valve that I took out after we did the motor job on the Riv. Reverend Virgil C. Funk gave us the loan! I carried his card with me for over 25 years. He was in Richmond Virginia, where we ran out of money and food. He gave us $10.00 to get home. Imagine back in 1973 it ony took $10.00 to get home in Brooklyn from Richmond Va. He sent us to a shelter for homeless people where we ate Turkey TV dinner, Pound Cake and Tomatoe Juice! As much of it as we wanted. It was like Thanksgiving Dinner to us we were so hungry. I remember wiring to my father for $50.00 because we ran out of miney, then going down to the University of Miami and scoring an ouce of weed becaus ewe ran out of that too! LOL. Who care show we are getting home or eating, as long as we have out herb! Lol. The recording studio was ROSSI'S nor RUSSO's. On Avenue U. Wow, what along strange trip this has been.

Reg, congradualations and I hope the baby has red hair. A question for all the 70's alumni.

Who was the toughest guy or gal in the neighborhood (excluding any "made" or Stacy Car Service guys)

My vote goes to Peter Far**i on Bay 7th, with Robert Tam**a as runner up. Joe L*cca could also handle his own.

Peter Faraci was a kid to me. His brother Johnny was more nuts than him and Tommy was worse than both of them. I saws Tommy duke it out with his father in Dyker park once. Mikey Miccio was the badest dude in the neighborhood for sure. Sorry fo rmy spelling earlier. I type these things at light speed.
Richie

Dennis Bovo held his own too. He and I got thrown out of Scranton, PA, for causing a riot after we fought off a gang that was teasing us about our long hair, ascots and bellbottom jeans back in '67!
I became good friends with T. Faraci after we stopped throwing baseball bats at each other in PS229 schoolyard! He was also dangerous when he rode his motorcycle!
14th ave and Dyker Park had its fair share of crazies Paulie(P.J. Wildman) Mandile comes to mind also.
Richie, Mikey Norton had more metal pins holding his joints together than a robot.
And we almost burnt down Rodney's motel in Fla. while you were drying out your Hendrix T-shirt with the heatlamp.
Anyone remember that Mary's candy store had a nickelodeon?
How'bout the little garden at the back of PS229 schoolyard? We used to grow vegetables there and celebrated Arbur Day. We also had a Maypole celebration plus Art shows, hanging our paintings on the fence.
Was miss Foley the cleaning woman at the school?
I had Mrs. Lennon, Miss Romeo (I've always wondered what made her neck look like that), Mrs. Lafiandra, forgot the others. And the Varazano suspension (as it was being constructed) was in the background of our class picture.
Remember Fort Lafayette?
Horseshoe crabs aplenty by the bay.
Who cruised their cars in front of Mitchell's Drive-in?
Then raced each other down the strip, by Poly Prep, for the loser's registration?
See ya later...
T G

My business was the reason for me leaving after high school. that was in the late 80's. my whole family still lives there, but like so many others, they moved to staten island in the late 90's. the house that my great grand parents built and we all lived in (alot of us at the same time, like most italians) is now gone. the bad part of it all is that so many neighbors, relatives, and friends are in different places. But what we all have in common is that no matter what deceades we grew up in, Bensonhurst was like no where else in the country. I guarantee there aren't web sites devoted to other places as small as bensonhurst with so many people so intent about their love for that area. Why is this? Where should I begin? How about 86th st. Lenny's pizza, all the shopping, the strip, the movies made there, cruising with your friends at night, 18th ave feast, harway ave feast, block parties, all of our little neighborhood parks where we learned about life and were still safe. wiffle ball, stickball, punchball, kick the can, ringolivio, salugi with the nerdy kids hat, all the older people on the block sitting on the porch at night watching us, crazy fireworks in the street, touch football between parked cars and moving traffic(we yelled CAAARRR and waited for it to pass) blasting buses on the corner with snowballs in the winter and eggs at halloween,car service, west 36st beach, coney island, wktu, hot 97,b91, soft pretzels on the beach with sun dew orange drinks. If you've ever been to the beach you know you heard FUDGY WUDGY!! Waking up at 7:00 on a sunday morning to the sound of meatballs frying, then dipping the bread in sauce. United skates, the ice cream man, going home for lunch in school or to the pizzeria {mine was pinos PS 200} Johns deli, rollin roaster, vegas diner, a million kids on your favorite corner or school yard, bleacher parties at Lafayette, the rides on the truck, sneaker circus, music stop, ceasars bay,more fun arcade, L&B, Block by block football teams, everybody was nicknamed after their car, rooftop sunbathing, selling candy for school to all the old people on the block and they bought it from everyone!! That's what we miss and isn't the same now. But we all appreciate it now, and have those memories. I miss people talking in Italian slang. I miss big holidays meals, then going outside in our white tanktops with spaghetti stains{also known as Italian stickball shirts} and playing stickball. I hope when I die that heaven is a big block party with all the people I remember growing up with. I miss it, and all the people like you.

WOW Sal no one could have said it better! I was a product of the 50's & 60's in Bensonhurst but we all remember the same things, why is that? I think it was because that's where Family & Friends were made and nothing will ever replace it, no matter where we go or move to our Hearts are still in good old Bensonhurst.

Sal,

Now I wake up on Sunday mornings to the sound of the Wok on my left side along with chinese music and to my right side arab music. I will NOT get into the aroma. But let me tell you this.....It is not meatballs frying in sauce.

I'm starting to consider picking up and going to North carolina. Get myself a Pizzeria and call it quits

Hey Guys,

Like I said earlier, this is a great site. I guess nobody knew Tommy Ocera or Benny Recca?
I'm not from Bensonhurst, but my dad worked at Jans and I spent lots of time there.
It's great to hear all the stories and stuff and also a bit sad to see how things change. I grew up in Massapequa and lots of your neighbors came out this way as well. I think as the Italian population became more finacially secure they moved out to the Island (staten or Long) because they saw the city changing. Is that true? The newer groups, Chinese and Russians, were just really starting out and landed in these neighborhoods, forever changing them. Since the 80's all the Italian families that brought their kids out to the Island wanted their kids to go to school and stuff.
Why do you guys think the neighborhood didn't stay the same? Why did you guys start to leave, or your families if they all loved it so much. After all, no one could have moved in if there were no vacancy's, right? In my home town, on my block or in my neighborhood, you can't move in because of one simple reason...NO ON IS LEAVING.
Seriously, could anyone answer that, why did you guys let this great neighborhood change?

kenny, There are several reasons why people left. Our families have been there for 4 and 5 generations. as the older people died off over the years some of the kids sold their houses, and while they tried to keep the same kind of people, eventually there are no more left moving in and you take the next best thing. As far as some of the Italians coming over, there are simply not as many coming over. Italy is alot better place to live now than it was a long time ago. Now people are escaping Russia, China, and the Middle East. Somehow these people have cash and are snatching up houses. So even if you want to stay and all the people you grew up with around you are gone, and the stores that you have shopped at for 30 years now have signs written in Russian or Chinese, you go find your comfort zone again and go with the pople you know.We never just LET the neighborhood change. We fought for many years to keep it clean and safe, Any outsiders who came in and disrespected it paid the price. We knew what happened to other neighborhoods when people who didin't care moved in. Thats why bensonhurst got the reputation of being racist. That may have bee so, but it worked. That's why all the people who write on this site are so upset about the changes. We all took care of that place for generations. I guess eventually all inner city neighborhoods go to crap if the people who live there have no pride. We know what that place used to be, and see it as a mere shell of itself. I personally want to thank all of you who cherished it, protected it, and kept an eye out for your neighbors stuff like it was your own over the years. That's what we were all about.

I WAS BORN IN BENSONHURST IN 1941. MY COUSIN WAS A DENTIST ON HIGHLAWN AVE MY UNCLE OWN THE BUTCHER STORE ON STILLWELL AVE NEXT TO K.M AUTO
STORE.LIVE AT 31 HIGHLAWN AVE.ANYBODY REMBER???????

The reason Bensonhurst went the way it did is because when the older generation who made Bensonhurst a great place to live died - the kids sold the houses to the "new" immigrants who paid top dollar. It is all about the Benjamines folks. It is sad to see how dirty it has become and it is such a sad thing to feel like a foreigner in your own neighborhood but thats how New York is - one group displaces another - and the beat goes on - at least we all have great memories. Funny though - when we lived there - and we grew up and smarter the goal was to leave - now that so many of us left we wish we could go back - there is no going back.

I enjoy looking at old movies on Youtube about Coney Island, Sheepshead Bay, Marine Park, NYC from the turn of the Century (1900s) and the 40's and 50s. I also get a kick out of watching the movies about NY and the 50s - Mean Streets, Saturday Night Fever, Grease, and the Lords of Flatbush. Those days are gone but not forgotten.

I grew up in the 80s which was like retro 50's with the DAs and teh Travolta fever - it was fun - it was great - I remember Cugin (short for Cugino meaning cousin in Italian) down 86th Street at night with the Disco blasting - Aielo's in Coney Island for Calamari, L&Bs for Pizza and Spumoni, Foccaceria (Joe's of Avenue U) especially at Lent - on Fridays the line was around the corner, Pastosa on 86th Street, Toto's Pizza in Coney Island (the Pizza Nazi), all the fruit stores with the snails crawling out of the baskets. The fig trees, the gardens, waking up on Sunday morning to the great smell of gravy cooking, going to Mass and then coming home to a feast - those Sunday dinners with family were the best, the Italian music pouring out from kitchen windows as the gravy was cooking, the real Jewish Deli's - man it was great!

Dio Benedica

Does anyone there know Frank Schumacher aka Frankie "shoes" from Bay 23rd between Bath and Cropsey?

Everyone talks about how great this nabe was, but I grew up in the heart of Bensonhurst near 19th and 77th, and most people I know are dead, on drugs, or in jail. The parents had bad values, didn't control their kids, didn't value education and it shows. Thankfully back in the 80's my parents had me hang out with the new Chinese kids in town and I ended up going to a great college and moving out. I love the place because it was my childhood, but in the end that's the main reason. We all love our youth no matter what it did to us.

Hello,
Does anyone remember the location of Bensonhurst Mat Hospital? I was born in 1944. That is where my mother told me where she gave birth to me, it does not seem to exisit anymore. Thank you

WoW, I thought this board was dead! Anyone from Dyker Park 1965-1972 around? T.Goff, you around?

Does anybody remember the sisters candy store on Bay 11 st (Bath Beach 1962 to 1967)? My mom was one of the sisters. How about Ernie the barber across the street from the Candy Store?. Did anyone attend PS 229 around 1964.
Or live on bay 7th street around that time.

Yes I went to PS 229 1956 thru 1963. Almost 1964! I lives at 23 Bay 7th, from 1951 (birth) till 1976 (marriage).

Hello to the Shorehaven crew!

Anyone from Bay 13th?

Hey Johnny Izzo, my buddy John Misiti talks about you all the time! I played in bands with him for a million years..
Richie Meli

I grew up in Bensonhurst and I guess a peice of me will always want to stay there. I'm 39 yrs old now, and things are a lot different in Bensonhurst these days. The Malboro Theater is gone, a lot of things on Bay Parkway changing. When I was 7 or 8 I remember going swimming in Seth Low Park, I would play ball all day long in that park as I got older, playing football in the school yard was great, I lived on 73 st, we would play other blocks in the seth low. I went to Lafayette HS (which is closing) and my favorite lunch spots were L&B and John's deli. Summer time was great manhattan beach during the day, there was always a block party to go to and the end of the summer was always capped off by the 18th Ave Feast. Lots of memories of the neihborhood. I live down in Lancaster SC now, but i still come up a lot (family is still there). I'm proud to be from Bensonhurst!!!

I used to live right across the street from John. My sister Caroline is still friends with his sister Chickie. Do you remember Frank Guida? Is he around? Where do live now?

Greetings to all. It's been a long time since I've spoken about the best damn country in Brooklyn. Bensonhurst lives on. Does anybody remember that damn pain in the ass cop from the 62nd pct. with the blond hair? He was always busting onions all over 86st street. I forgot his name. See I never listened to him either.
How about those "Battle of the Bands"? They put on some really good shows. How about the Black shirts with Brooklyn, or Bensonhurst in script. I still have a bunch of them. I remember cruising 86st Street at Night, and then hitting Bay Ridge for some Jasmine's [later changed to T.J. Bentley's], or even Interiors back in the 80's. Also hitting OverStreets. Also Romeo & Juliets/Nite Gallery aka Shooting Gallery.
I went to F.D.R. off of 20th ave. & 58th Street.
I hung out on 82nd street park off of 18th ave. The candy store on 20th & 84th. We had some great times. Does anyone remember the Zano Bros? I remember when Tommy Z. witnessed the Son of Sam shooting on Shore Parkway. Last week I met someone who was Robert Violante's cousin in a park in S.I. I went to F.D.R. with him. Thank God we are all still here to share the memories, and carry on the legacy. Fellow cugine's, and cusinette's.

ATTENTION FANS OF BENSONHURST

I am the operator of this web site. I am looking for someone who would be willing to be the moderator of a more elaborate discussion forum about Bensonhurst. You should have some knowledge of the workings of the Internet and be comfortable with computers. You will be asked to fight spammers, racists and other forms of stupidity. This will be a non-profit effort -- your compensation will be the satisfaction of running a happy online community. If you love Bensonhurst and are interested please send an e-mail to the address on this page and tell me why you are the right person. Thanks!
David

Just found this site today. I wish my cousin TANYA would have told me about it sooner. Tommy Gallagher is my third cousin. Bruce was my Dad. He had 18th ave. Auto Parts on 70th Street across from Alba from 1980-84. I grew up on west 6th and west 4th between O and P. Went to PS 177 and Seth Low (Remember Mr. O's animal lab!) (yes I was in his summer crew). We moved to SI in 92. I now live with my wife and kids in the sunny Southwest. We went back to visit in October and took a ride around Bensonhurst just for the hell of it and yes the neighborhood has changed. The only place to pull over was at a johnny pump! I am happy to say that the house I grew up in is still the same and still owned by the LaDelfa's.
All I really wanted was a hero from Monte's but it was late afternoon and the shop was closed. I will visit again this fall and I'm coming in early to jump in on an alternate side parking day. Thanks for the memories Bensonhurst.
If every slab of concrete could tell a story it would be wise to listen and remember.

Hey everyone, My name is Jasmine and I grew up on West 7th and Kings Hwy. I moved to Staten Island when I was 17 and have been back in Bensonhurst for the past 3 years. I'm back on Kings Hwy again and although it has changed it still feels like home to me. I used to go to Boody JHS and I hung out in Ave S park. I remember walking out of my house in the summer and the Kings Hwy boys would pick up all the girls "literally" who were walking and throw them in front of the Johnny pumps and we would get soaked :) LOL !!! I wonder if anyone knows where people like Sean Dunleavy or John Amato or if Tommy Cosantino is out of jail yet ?? Does anyone remember anyone from Ave U like KT cause he was Gorgeous ;) !!! And what about Steven Greco or Joey Catalano(my first boyfriend) ?? Alot of people got married and moved out of here but I would LOVE to meet up with anyone who remembers Ave S park or the Square on Ave U or the West Kings Hwy Boys :) !!!

Hey Johnny Izzo. I don't know Frank Guida. I live in Staten Island now.

Richie, I moved to NJ in 1988 then 4 years ago moved to Florida. We hate it here. We're trying to sell our house so we can move back.

And that Vinny who directed traffic on 15th & 85th.... he did a better job than the police. They should have paid him for the job.
I remember hanging out in my friend Neil's apartment. He lived above Lenny's Pizzeria. We watched the whole filming of the scene in Saturday Night Fever. Was the best seats in the house. Then we went off to 2001 Odyssey. The 70's, and 80's were the best of times in the Hurst. They'll never be another time like it. And we all lived it. We were damn lucky!

Hey all,

I'm 19 and live on Bay 11th between Cropsey and Independence. Reading everyone's posts has made me wonder what the neighborhood was like before all of these foreigners started coming in. My family has been in this neighborhood since the 1950's (Mark, Roy, and Annette). My mom has been on Bay 11th (we live next door to the Caso's and have known them for years)since the 60's and before then she and my two uncles were on Bay 10th, right around the corner. My grandparents moved to Bay 10th when the attached houses were first builtand were the original owners until the 90's when they moved upstairs from me and my mother.

Anyone know my mom and two uncles?

jbklyn88-
This is a website to talk about "the neighborhood" and great memories. When I read your post, I was taken aback when you refered as your fellow neighbors as "foreigners". You're 19 and live in New York, none the less Brooklyn and you refer people as "foreigners", are you kidding me? Yes the neighborhood has changed but to refer people as "foreigners" is a bit ignorant. They are here, just like your forefathers to bring a better life for their children. I am an Italian, Asian, German - American...proud to be...proud of my family and my decent. You're 19, brush up on your political correctness, don't be ignorant!

RE: jbklyn88: Um, and just why does this person have to brush up on their Political Correctness? Is your personal constitution that weak that it can not stand up to a differing opinion? Are you made of sugarplums or something? Speaking of ignorance, if you were born here you are an American, not German, Italian, Asian, etc. etc.....American. Unless of course, your mother had a teleporter at her disposal during labor and visited Italy, Germany and all of Asia, then I would stand corrected. Also, if you weren't born here, you are a foreigner.

I was googling someone I knew and found him mentioned on this site. Wow, so many things I forgot about. I practically lived in PS 200 park from the mid 80's through the early 90's. That handball court never cooled down. I'm still here and I'll tell you what bugs me the most about what's happening. First, I get so upset with people who have left and badmouth what the neighborhood has become. We grew up here and have mostly fond memories, why slam it? Yes, it's changed, but as much as it has changed, some things are still the same. Another thing that is driving me crazy is the tearing down of all the private houses and building these co-op/condo complexes. It's both exciting and upsetting. It's exciting to see the neighborhood being built up, but upsetting because I am watching all the homes of friends who have moved on getting torn down and replaced with a multi dwelling building. Walking down Bay 23rd street used to take hours because we knew and spoke to everyone, now I only recognize one or two faces. Anyone remember the Vet, Dr. Sinha from Bath Avenue? He just recently retired.

I "cruised" on 86th street in my friend's tan Plymouth with a Jesus bumper sticker on it. We would pack six girls in it and cruise up and down for hours.
We hung out in Circles and the Bubble Lounge in Bay Ridge. Those were great days.

Awesome site! I'm 42 and reading so many names that strike a bell. I went to 176, dyker jhs and new utrecht. Dyker was the the best. Anyone know what happened to (bath ave boyz) One eyed ritz, danny/dee dee, micheal natalie, scott reback, anthony ferrara, clifford barficlione..speel check on all these names. They guys were either in my class or driving me and the other girls crazy at lunch time. Remember mr. Lobello the bio teacher? we abused the hell outta him (loved him he was my homeroom teacher)and he would call us a bunch of fking burnout barbarians lol. Mrs. mischik dragging us around by the ear through the hallways. I was from the other side of bensonhurst...13 ave. Missed those yrs, times, people. :sigh:

Wow, Does this web site brings back memories.

Wow, Does this web site brings back memories.

Lived in Shorehaven 1952-1969, moved to Contello Towers 1969-1975. Left for Miami in 1975. PS200, JHS 128, Lafayette. Cropsey Park, Nelly Bly. Anyone my age out there?

he i was a bay parkway boy in the 80,s ,hang out with pinski,anthoney eyebrowns,jimmy ,franky,willy windmill,gober,john glasses,dino,freddy,email whoknowsyou69@aol.com,

I was born and raised in Bensonhurst. Went to 186, Seth Low and New Utrecht. 1969 thru 1982 were the greatest and best years of my life. I used to hang out in Seth Low park. We played softball practically everyday. Either practicing at 205 or playing the real games at Seth Low park . 71st and 20th against the boys from 186. Seth Low was great. We all grw our hair in 1969. I remember the protest at Seth Low where we rebelled against the dress code. I remember Mr Blacksbery the Math teacher. I was in his homeroom in the 8th grade. Mr Waarner the science teacher who used to part his hair like Guiliani. Mr Glassman the social studies teacher who used to bend down over your shoulder to check your homework and his breath used to smell like rotten eggs. He confiscated someones playboy magazine one day and after scolding us about the magazine we caught him reading it when we came back from lunch.
The girls in Seth low were beautiful. I remember Cindy, Miriam, Susan,Fanny, Georgette, Marie, Lisa and Carol C. Cindy was the cutest. She used to sit right next to me in Geraldini's math class. I should have asked her out but I was too busy hanging out with my friends. I also remember the guys from Avenue O. Eric, Ray, Johnny, Joey Hawaiian. We were all crazy. And who can forget Johnny and Freddie G.and Phillie. Peter M.
I lived on 72nd bet 18 and 19. played stickball every day. The spaldeens used to go about 40 miles. We also played slapball, johnny on the pony, ringolevio at night. I'll never forget those days. Never. I was extremely lucky. I was the greatest place to live in those days.
Rick

This site is great. Brings back great memories. Man we had toooo much fun in those days. I used to hang out at Seth low park. I had friends on Avenue O Ray, Ricky W. Eric Joey Hawaiian. The pershing arms apts. I went to Seth low from from 1969 to 1971. We were advanced for our ages. I grew up on 18th Avenue. I remember Laura T. She was the one with the 44D. I remember the cop who patrolled 18th avenue on foot. We nicknamed him Waldo to Cop. This was back in the late '60s early 70's. I remember the Golden Ginnies from 18th Ave. I remember Buff and Bosco.(Not the Buff from New Utrecht) I was 13 and Buff would give me pointers on how to pick up chicks. He was like a mentor to me. By the way I am the guy who had the midnight blue cutlass supreme. I also remember debbie from 18th and 71st st. She had a brother named Dave. She was and probably still is a foxy lady. This site is really bringing back memories. I also remember the golf course on 86th street and 12th Avenue. Everybody used to park there with their girlfriends. But the place was chained closed during the time of Son of Sam. Hope he rots in hell. Anyway, I remember going to Penthouse on Fridays. The Golden Dove, Cadabras, Gazebo, Channel 80, Marcos in NYC. It went from rock to disco.
Disco was a great place to meet chicks but I was always into Classic Rock.
Again just a great site.
Rick

Great site!! Anybody remember Player's Disco off the Belt Pkwy?

OMG, this site is great. Thanks for the memories!! I lived on 76 st and 21 st avenue. I am 37. Hung out on 86 th street, Bay 19th in 1986. I have a twin sister named Tara. Would love to hear from anyone who remembers me!!!

I live in Marine Park but 86th street was great. In the 1980s, I remember going to Night Gallery every single Friday and Saturday nights. We used to dance the whole night away in our hankerchief dresses. It was faboulous. We used to cruise on and down 86th street & there used to be a great shoe store where we got the prettiest shoes. There used to be some many great stores and it was the spot where Saturday Night Fever took place. We used to pass the pizzeria and feel cool as if we saw John Travola inside the store. We had so much fun. Where did those days go?
The kids today have nothing fun to do. Very depressing. Well this was a good site to reminise. Thanks for the memories!!!

I lived in Bensonhurst on Bay 19th Street from 1946 through the 50's. In the 50's, I went to PS 200.
Compared to other places I have lived in, I thought Bensonhurst was YUCK! Although I had many friends, I remember scarey things also. My Aunt, from my father's family, still lives there
as far as I know. My Mother and Father both grew up there...They met on 86th St one weekend and then eloped the following weekend without my grandparents permission. They were wed for 58 years until my Dad's passing.
I remember playing Red Light-Green Light, King on the Mountain and Hop Scotch. I remember the knife man would come around and sharpen one's knife. I also remember a little boy got run over by a speeding car with glass all over him....I remember a car was stolen in front of my house, and I also remember going to the movies with my g/f and two girls came out to beat us up and tried to take our money. I remember there was a gang called "The Baldies" that would cut girls pigtails off! I watched Dick Clark and the Mickey Mouse Club...that's when I knew the doctor would be ringing our doorbell. My principal at the time, I believe, was Mr. Nislow. He also ran the day camp I attended. He had a huge mustache and the girls at camp had to have boxing lessons. We moved from Brooklyn to Long Island after I finished 6th grade. In fact, most of my parents friends all moved together.
I am 61 years old now, and the only fond memories I remember were that of my wonderful Dad bringing art into my world or even letting me braid his hair while he watched the $64,000. question. At that time, the top of the steps were called "stoops...and the street "the gutter."

Shorehaven & Cropsey Park Crew where are you!?

Does anyone remember Jay's candy store on 19th and Bath. hung out at Cropsy Park, but moved to Bay Ridge at 15

Does anyone remember Jay's candy store on 19th and Bath. hung out at Cropsy Park, but moved to Bay Ridge at 15

Hey Joe Grecco,

I just wanted to Publicly Thank You for helping to give my Dad a proper send off the day of his funeral. Never will I forget the day that Tow Trucks raced to stop traffic across Brooklyn.
Thanks again my Friend.

great website-i remember tommy g.very well,esp when jimmy emma beat him,but tommy is a true hero of bensonhurst,i lived there from 1956 to 1963,moved to 52st&18ave to 1965,anyone remember butchie angello(singer)junior cyzs,lil ridge(steveie R.)neil manganaro,lil georgie,big al(his brother)tommy snake,joker,---52st crew--lil dom,DJ malloy,frankie potts,scitty red--love to hear from u guys-esp lil dom,butchie,stevie r.

great website-i remember tommy g.very well,esp when jimmy emma beat him,but tommy is a true hero of bensonhurst,i lived there from 1956 to 1963,moved to 52st&18ave to 1965,anyone remember butchie angello(singer)junior cyzs,lil ridge(steveie R.)neil manganaro,lil georgie,big al(his brother)tommy snake,joker,---52st crew--lil dom,DJ malloy,frankie potts,scitty red--love to hear from u guys-esp lil dom,butchie,stevie r.

I remember them all. I was there when Jimmy Emma got shot. I used to own the lunchonette on Bay 25th and Bath. I bought it from Carmine's father.

Hi Tiffany! I remember you and your sister. I recall you guys left Seth Low in 6th or 7th grade. I think you moved away. Oh , my name is Maria, my parents had the Coffee Shop on Bay Parkway & 72nd street in the mid 80's.I honestly don't remember much about details back then but your name rang a bell.

wow i just came across this site!
i grew up in bensonhurst i was all over the place, friends from all ends of the neighborhood. i was born on bay 37th and bath, then moved to 85th st off stillwell. funny cause my daughter was born on bay 37th as well. anyway i agree with a comment all the way up top about the change in the early 90's. bensonhurst is not the same. ill always love it for what it was not for what it has become. all of us that grew up or lived there, are indeed apart of history. much love to all the b'hurst people past and present. all my friends one love!!! JOHNS DELI!!!

when i read most of these comments i seriously get choked up thinking about good times. thanks for the memories.

Hey Cropsey Park / Shorehaven Crew how's it going!!??

I'd just like to inform all former and current residents of Brooklyn that early this morning, a Bensonhurst legend passed away. I received news today from my father that Salvatore Alba, my grandfather and former owner and manager of Alba 18th Avenue died very late last night. Sal inherited Alba 18th Avenue after his father Nicola Alba, the business' founder, passed away. Though the pastry shop was struggling when he inherited it, Sal managed to turn it into a multimillion dollar brick-and-mortar business that was a favorite of celebrities including Frank Sinatra, Donald Trump, and Michael Badalucco. Sal was once told by a Brooklyn judge that he was a friend to all. Though his clientele ranged from priests to mafiosos, they all had one thing in common, their unwavering love for superior authentic Italian desserts. Besides impeccable quality, Sal also built a reputation for having an extremely wide variety. Anyone who's stepped into Alba's knows that you can't even begin to count the varieties of cookies, pastries, pies, and cakes. Even on a recent trip to Sicily with my father, I couldn't find a single pasticceria that offered even half the items Alba's carried. For those who would enjoy reminiscing over Alba's product line, it can be found at the pastry shop's historical website, http://albaworld.us/18thave/index.htm The hardest part for me about writing this is the thought that all of these wonderful memories are fluttering even more so into the past. However the rich Italian culture, invaluable family history, inspirational rags to riches stories, and heartwarming family memories will forever live on in every Alba's heart, just as Sal's benevolent and charming spirit lives on with us forever.

hi i miss 86th st soooooooooo much i used to cruize with my cutless supreme in the 80s the loudest car systme on 86th st with a possie of girls i worked in the funhouse for a year and i still talk to joe monk hes doin well i miss those days so much, im divorced i have a little boy and i relocted to queens but i still go back to 86st and 18th ave and ave u for the memories ,it was the best time of my life !!! ROBIN AKA ROBINSTER BINSTER OH YEAH I USED TO HANG OUT WITH KAREN THE CHINEESE GIRL AND I STILL TALK TO MARIA ICE CREAM GIRL MY EMAIL ADRESS IS BULLDOGSSALE1@AOL.COM

Hello to all, first off my condolences to the Alba family my Mom and Sals wife were good friends back then when we lived in Brooklyn and lost touch. Nick what was your dads name and where did he go to school. I attended PS48 on 60th and 18th ave from 1965 - 1968 (K-3).

I would come every weekend since my aunt lived on 64th and 18th and my dad had a store on Ave O. What a great neighborhood.I miss it so and visit as often as I can but its not the same no one out side playing stickball or stoopball etc.oh well.

If anybody attended PS 48 in that time frame would love to hear from you.

K- Ms. Testagrosso
1st- Ms. Rinaldi
2nd- Ms. Sergio
3rd Ms. Solomon (she requested all boys wear a tie)

Hope to hear from someold classmates I remember a Gregory lived on 58th street, Matthew, Gabriel.

Oh Man so funny this site - ROSEMARY you mean the "SHOOTING GALLERY" ..LOL god we all have the same memories doing all the same things!! I lived on 73rd St and 20th ave. PS 186 grad 1974, Seth Low grad 1977, did 6 months in JOHN DEWEY, grad New Utrecht 1981

whoever remembers Bklyn from the 70-80s; was ces't la vie, night gallery, maybe channel 80; manhattan beach, We did things that most people don't even dream about, it was all about the day and only the day...I had friends all over the neighborhood Bath Ave, 18th, 13th Ft Hamilton..most of my guys are dead or in jail I guess whoever knows of me out there assumes I am also..not so, married 3 kids (boys), living in the mid west..but still miss the day when me and the guys walked in a club and the room parted.how I miss Jimmy Galione and Louis Tuzzio still to this day 20 years later..my one regret not marrying patty danza from bath and 25th..& the best thing that happened over the past few years is Scottie Fapp got his justice...

I was born on Ave U and West 6th street in 1939. I lived in the apartment buildings on West 6th street. I use to hang out in Cusomo's candy store across from the apartments. When I was a kid growing up I lived in an apartment next to Mr Russo's funeral parlor. It was actually above DiVico's Bakery garage. I went to PS 95, Boody JR High and then on to Bklyn Tech. My buddies were Butchie, Sally Stretch, Johnny Brocoli, Jimmy Mastellone, Louie Mastellone, Cusomo Fioucco, Sally Porta, Louie Iammuno (his father owned the clam bar next to Steeplechase in Coney Island that was bought by his cousin Tony Palone the prize fighter. I did hang out for many of my teenage years in Mr Franks candy store on the hill on Ave U between west 8th and West 7th street. My cousins joey and Jr and uncles Fredie, Johnny, Tony, Stevie, Frankie, Tommy were known as the Beanesee brothers. Back in the 30s and 40s most people who lived in the neighborhood knew of them. I loved growing up in Bensonhurst and the best times of my life are the memories. I remember going out with my first girlfriend "Chickee" and all the girls that hung out in Mr Franks candy store.The girls who hung out there were Irene, Margie, Mary Bianco, Marie and Susan (sisters)and Lucie. The guys were Gene Bianco, Fredie Teranova, Sal DiGiorgio, Angelo Anemone, Jimmy Mastellone. First order on going into Mr Franks was an "egg cream" vanilla or chocolate. Waiting on Friday night outside Nathans for 12pm to come around so we could eat meat. Hanging out at Mitchels Drive in on 86th street. Having a season locker at Ravenhall Pool in Coney Island. Driving limosines for Terronova Funeral Home in the 60s and cruising Ocean Pkw in a 55 Mecury or the Caddy Limosines when I took it early prior to a wedding job and went looking to pick up girls. I am living in Texas and still work out with weights and punching bags every day, hold a full time job, and love to hunt wild boars all over the state with a bow. Come back each year to hunt Deer in Upstate NY and visit family and friends on Bath Ave, Staten Island, and New Jersey. I am 69yrs old and still climb trees. My youngest son is in the US Navy Special Warfare and has been to Aganistan 3 times and is due to go back again soon. I have another son living in Ohio who hunts with me every year in Texas and NY. Raised 3 daughters all doing well. If anyone remembers me or thinks they know me answer this web and somehow we will get in touch.

This is a great site I spent the past 2 days reading every post I know a lot of you, as cryptic as you are and I"m no better. Keep it up.

Anthony Spero a Bath Avenue icon has passed away. What ever your opinion of Spero, good-bad-or indifferent he was a fixture on Bath Avenue along with his brother Sally in the 60's 70's and 80's, with his famous racing pigeons flying all over the neighborhood. I remember as a kid watching him and the rest of the guys on Bath Avenue exploding every firework they did'nt sell for the 4th of July right there on the corner of Bay 14 and Bath, what a sight

The neighborhood that we knew passes away with each new condo, ethnic shop, or restaurant but to me it still is one of the best places in the city (I'm talking Bath Beach not Bensonhoist)you can't beat that breeze comming off Gravesend Bay in late summer. It's just that other people are now taking advantge of it because we or our parents have left... but I am comming back.....one day.

Just read that Anthony Spero passed away. I am sorry to hear that and my condolences go to his family and especially a good hunting buddy his brother Sally. We spent many good years hunting up at my cousin Joey's. You were the best hunting camp cook going. Sure miss you and all the fun we had. Larry

Who remembers DeRossa's bar on 86th and Bay 10th I had my frist drink in there at 16. We would pack that place on Friday nights I remember it had Jimmy Rosselli records on the Jukebox.

HI Not who U think I am.
I remember 4th of July every year and the great firework diplay put on 17th Ave and Bath. The motar shells and cases of mats all lit off at the same time was some show. Roman Candles flew from one side of the street to the other. The neighborhood all enjoyed the show that was put on by the neighborhood guys. A lot of the money earned from selling fireworks went into putting on these shows for the neighborhood. The streets were filled with smoke and every block in Bensonhurst was having their own show enjoying the 4th and there was no question that we were Americans and never bad mouthed our president and supported all our troops that fought for our freedom. Our neighborhoods were safe from muggings, car jackings, and a family could walk down the street at any time of the day or night and feel perfectly safe. No place in the world had Lemon Ice, Pastry and Pizza like we had. The Spumoni Garden on 86th street on a hot summer night was a must do thing. We did'nt need air conditioning in the summer we had stoops to sit on. We had more fun and party's in our small backyards and everyone was invited over for a hot dog and hamburger and coffee and pasty. Here in Texas the first time I was invited to a Barbcue I looked for the hamburgers and hot dogs. When I told the host where is the Barbcue he said on the table in the pans. Barbcue in Texas is shreded beef with a sauce on it. Its good but not what a guy from Brooklyn is use to. Most people have never tasted Italian Pastry. I always bring back a lot of Pastry for all my buddies here in Texas. A great thing about Texas is that most Texans are not liberal and we can carry guys with a concealed license. I do miss the old days in Brooklyn.

im livin and been livin here in Bensonhurst...best place 2 grow upp if u albanian....lov seein my friends here in da hood...we from skools lik PS200, Dyker, BKYLN Studio, Cavallaro and Dewey...lov goin on nice lookin days 2 da park...the 18th ave park was da best damn albanian park...red n black 4eva...LoL...i memba all dem moms-grandmas sittin takin up all da space on the benches...then all us albanian kids playin...LoL
my albo pride i will not hide
all my friends B goin there evryday
we all B lik from places lik tirana, durres, prishtina, and dibra

Larry you are right it was a great safe neighborhood if memeory serves me right there was a time when a rash of breakins were happening 2 guys would go house to house asking for water or soemthing and gain entrance to the house and rob the women who were home. there was a good discription of what they looked like. One day the were spotted in the neighborhood and it was the last day, the 2 guys were never seen again. It was probably one of the safer places in all the country let alone the city. More on the pastries and lemmon ice another day.

Ohhh The memories this site brings back. I used to DJ at the Bedrock on Bath ave in the early 80's. I had Saturday nights. The late 70's i was hanging out at Cest La Vie with my cousin and the rest of the guys from Bath ave , I also lived on Bay 25th street by 86th street for a few years. I met my first Love there. Donna. When i lived there in the 70's I hung out with Curly, Larry , Luis, Bobby , Angelo and his brother Frankie , Billy, Steven. Wow it's been a long time. anyone remember me send me an e-mail morningmagic1106@aol.com

HI Not who U think I am.
When I was a teenager I use to go to Coney Island. Remember how all the beaches had names. From Brighton Beach to Seagate.
When I was growing up most of AVE U went to Bay 10 and Bay 11. As a teenager I went to Bay 15 that was near Steeplechase Pier. The bar under the boardwalk was called "The Bop House. Ravenhall swimming pool had an exit out to the beach under the boardwalk near the bop house. An old man at the exit would stamp your arm with a stamp that would show up under utra Violet light.
Many fights happened under the boardwalk at the bop house. However if you were from Bensonhurst someone knew you and you were safe. I spent many cold nights with my cousins on Steeplechase pier catching whitings when they were in season. Then I would buy some hot chesnuts off a cart that would hold me over until I could make it over to Nathans. more stories to come

Tony
Bedrock was a nice change went with the times, did you know a DJ named Benny but I liked the old Magic Lantern, memories from my childhood I guess

No. I didn't know Benny. The only benny i ever met was at Rickys on 92 or 93rd street and 4th ave. I worked with Pete at the bedrock. There was a DJ on Friday nights, I can't remember his name but i don't think it was Benny.

Does anyone remember 25th ave and 86th. The hot bagel store, richie, joe ricci and his brother ricky, john keene, hangin out at ps101, playing basketball, bay 50th and the esplande, woh those were some times, I go back to the neighborhood 2x a month, it's changed but there is still johns deli and LB joe's of ave u.

Hey everyone, My name is Tony Modafferi, I grew up on 16th ave. between 86 st and benson. I went to Ps 163, 201, and Grady..I hada a band in 201 with Charlie Liotta and Cliff DeBlasio..we were called the Devils and we came out right after the Beatles..we were the first band to back up Mr Delseni when he made make believe love.saw Rich Meli on here...On 16th Ave we had Hoppo, Chippy, Mad, Campisi, Joey Ioia, Johnny , Willy, Mikie Sangwitch, Allan, Gerald, Lucille, Ameila,...we had Stanley's candy store on the corner of 16th avd and benson...we also had a live poultry place on the same corner..My Brother Louie hung out on 16th Ave and Bath..they were the younger guys...they had Yak,Guichy, Greek, Hamburger, Dorme, Stinky, Campy, Mad Hoppo, Ralph,
Dorme, Johnny Boy, Joe Mascali, Carl Bini, Vita, Maragni...Louie,Joe Mascali and Carl Bini all worked at Rescue 5 In Staten Island and were lost on 9-11-2001.....Every Year we get together for a big reunion..this year it will be at The Hilton Hotel in Staten Island on Dec 13th...alot of the guys and gals from 16th ave , Bay 16th Bay 13
will be there...my band Generation Gap will be playing...last year we had a blast seeing all the faces from the past...anyone wanting info can email me..Tonygap@aol.com...I can use a meatball hero from Joe's now...I saw alot of names that I recognized, would love to here from you guys

Tony I remember Charlie Horn very well I came to some of your band practiices when you guys were a little older ( i really liked epmty pages). I am younger than you but I remneber the Sketch and the Genials you played in one of those bands right . Now really who was better.

No Tony was not in The Genials. The Genials were Me (Richie Meli) on Drums and vocals, Steve Caronia on guiar and Vocals, Johnny Barbero on guitar, Bobby Abotobic on Bass and Charlie Liotta on keyboards. It morphed after I left with new drummer and guitar players, that I dont remember. A guy named Gerry from Bay 10 I think on guitar. I think the Sketch was Tommy Goff on drums, Dennis Pitasi on keyboard, Frank Fanco on guitar, Ronnie Annunziata on vocals, they were also called The Fuzzbugs. I think Macelle Vilafleur played bass. I remember going to Tony Modiferi's house on 16th Ave, with my snare drum and cymbal to get together with Tony on trumpet and guitar as one of the first collaboations I ever had with another musician! My first band (who also backed up DelSeni in PS 201) was The Knockouts, with Anthony Signorelli on clarinet, Chucky Rondot on vocals, Sal Sardo on guitar and Carl Alfano also on guitar..
Where does the time go. I am still active in 4 bands. One of which is playing tomorrow nite Friday October 24, at The Full Moon Saloon on 5th Ave and 83rd St in Bay Ridge. Come on Down, we play all the HEAVY music from The Fillmore East. The band is called "BACK TO THE FILLMORE". Cream, Hendrix, Jeff Beck, Allmans, Deep Purple, Humble Pie, Zeppelin, Johnny Winter, Robin Trower, Queen, Cactus, and lots more!

Richie Meli

Not who you U think I am:
Wow...you remember the Sketch...that's unbelievable..I guess we made an impression on at least one person...you must email me....Johnny Russo passed away from cancer some time ago...Carl
Alfano is in Vegas...Tommy DiMatteo..was last seen getting high..(that's some time ago) hope he is doing well...and myself I guess I'm the only one who kept playing music....I remember our last job together was at the Scottish Center on FT Hamilton pwy..where Seamens is or was...they closed the club after we played...please get back to me..this Friday we will be playing at Bistro's on Hyland blvd in Staten Island 7-11 pm

does anyone remember Mary's Candy store on bath ave near bay 8th

does anyone remember fuffy's pancake house on 16 th ave & ermilios deli on 16 th ave and bath....

I hung out with the older people on my block in the 60's they were a good 3-5 years older than me so I remember a lot of what they were into. Do you remember Mike Iacona his father was the bleach man and his brother was Chipper. Mike dated a girl named Wendy she was my first crush. I also have a cousin who is a lot older than me so I know the older guys too,the "Manga Booth" days. I remember the Saint Finbars football team that went undefeated in 63 ( I was 7)

The Mangia Booth! I was there every nite! LOL
Richie Meli

I went to PS 105 when mrs fitzgerald? was the principl?? not sure, long time ago. Mike Russo, Steve Franza, Anthony Pennauqua, Juile Marchitteli, Benny Chi used to go to 2001 on sat (daytime) b/c was too young to get in at night. Remember hanging out on 86th EVERY weekend. Drove a coupe de ville. The feast on 18th... Joe, good friend of mine drove a wrecker for mid town. I remember going to bliss park, the 69th st peir, fishing behind ceasers bay. went to mc kinley jhs, joined the service. got married - not to a local - and moved to jersey. got married AGAIN and moved to fl where i am now. miss the old neighborhood! Oh - does anybody remember aldos???? spumoni gardens (best silican ever)???
and the walker???? was a great place to grow up. too bad things have changed... glad sites like this are still up.

The L&B spumoni gardens still has the best pizza.
anyone from 16th ave & shore parkway out there..

I remember Fuffy's Pancake House..accually I lived right across the street from it and help with the construction with a carpenter..he let me help him because I was always near when they needed bodies so it worked out..I also bussed tables and washed dishes remember listening to the Hollies on the radio..those were the days...I really miss growing up on 16th ave. it was great playing ball in the streets with little or no cars coming by constantly like today...does anybody remeber Stanleys candy store on the corner of 16 and Benson..I ran into Richie Meli...looks the same...also frank franco, he also looked great...I would like to hear from anyone who remembers me..thanks

I thought this website was ended. Nice to see that it's still going on.

Who remembers Julie's candy store on Bath ave and the barbershop next door where I got ny first haircut I still have the picture, and Elsie' toy store where you could by a pimple ball.When I was a kid I thought the Associated market was huge. I love Bath Ave.

Does anyone come from the area around 17th ave and 82nd street. I was born there in '39 and moved in '65. Remember Pisanis grocery store 81st and 17th ave. Modicas bread 17th ave between 80th and 81st. Magories grocery 82nd st and 17th ave. Sams candy store 17th ave. Frytags icecream parlor 17th ave and 79th .
Names that come to mind:
John Lo Pinto
Charlie Arena
Alice La Rocca
Sara Briganti My prom date and first heavy duty crush
Pete Mc Gowan
Cirillo Bros coal.
Parking in the coal yard at the foot of Bay Parkway and watching the submarine races
What fun and no one got into trouble.

Memories!!!
Wow this site goes down memory lane!
I lived on 85th st and 20th ave 1957 - 1978
I was one of Neil Pizzaria's first customers when he opened in 1958 slice cost 15 cents soda 10 cents. Lenny's always had better squares though
Loved those days in Bensonhurst we learned a lot
of real life on those streets. Some of the places
I recall:
Benson, Deluxe, Loews movie theaters, Hy-Macs best candy store at 86th and 20th. Hung out at
Sal the cops pool room 86th and 21 ave downstairs It was called Hi-run billiards.
Bandels head shop 86th and bay 25 or 26,
Anyone remember Pete and Marios Volkswagen shop
on New Utrecht and 60th st? Hung out mostly at
Revelation but some at Penthouse, and the Gallery and does anyone remember Bananna fish park?
Went to p.s. 200 JHS 128 New Utrecht,We also had a great fireworks show every year at 85 & 20th.
Miriam and Julius candy store 84 & 20th.
Lots of good memories. When I go back to Bensonhurst these days (I moved to Staten Island 18 years ago)almost every block I drive down brings back memories. Going through the comments on this site made me feel great like I belonged
to something. I often tell people this:
"You can take the boy out of Brooklyn but you can never take Brooklyn out of the boy"

remember it all well, we were in the 1970's, julie candy store, went to ps 163, dyker, lafayette, saw it all from bath ave guys hanging out to shooting gallery (nite gallery) alot of us girls that hung out then, still keep in touch, if u were girls hanging in the 70's on bath avenue, let me know

remember bath avenue - julies candy store
1970's early early 1980's, julie candy store - i still keep in contact with alot of the girls. went to ps 163, dyker, lafayette

How do you play "ringolivio"?

I LIVED IN BENSONHURST ALMOST MY WHOLE LIFE. I ACTUALLY LIVED IN BATH BEACH WHAT A GREAT PLACE IN LIVED ON BAY 13 ST. BETWEEN BATH AND BENSON AVE I LIVED FROM THE EARLY 60S TO THE LATE 70S 45 YEARS SINCE I MOVED TO BATH BEACH I STILL SEE OVER A HUNDRED FRIENDS FROM THE NEIGHBORHOOD WE HUNG OUT ON 16 TH AND BATH BY MICELIS PHARMACY THERE WERE GUYS CALLED STINKY, HAMBURGER JOEY D , PUDDY, TOMMY EYEBALLS BUBBLES I WOULD NOT TRADE FOR ANYTHING FOR THE TIME IN SPENT IN THIS NEIGHBORHOOD. ALSO I ALWAYS KNEW WHEN MOTHER WENT TO THE GROCERY STORE AT ANY TIME OF THE DAY THERE WAS ALWAYS SOMEONE SOMEWHERE WATCHING THE NEIGHBORHOOD AND THE NEIGHBORHOOD PEOPLE YOU KNEW YOU WERE ALWAYS SAFE IT IS STILL THAT WAY TODAY WHAT A GREAT PLACE I WISH I STILL LIVED THERE NOT IN THIS HELLHOLE CALLED STATEN ISLAND

i went to ps163, dyker heights and lafayette, who bath ave doesnt remember julies egg creams.how about frankie ponce"s on the corner bath and bay 13 does anyone know tommy hamburger

Does any one remember the carneys on cropsey and 19 ave.they had 4 kids geraldine joann warren and jeannie.there was a candy store owned by tony and father george. a bar called rolands also does any one remember denise obeid ,guy he had blue lips due to a heart problem.i used to stoop sit with him .also Christine Sapala and her sister Dora .ps 200 and the may pole dance.then 128 and laffayette high this was all during the 50 and 60

yea i remember all of you

I know tommy hamburger i remember when he was working out at bath beach body building and we had a club right next door not for very long though. i remember playing two hand touch on bay 13th street.

does anyone remember mike golliver from bay 13 street who hung out with hamburger johnny boy mikie daz richie keys dead arm dorme joey digrazia

Well it's nice to see some people responding from Bath ave And bay 13th. I'm a Dorme. Lived across the street from Julies Candy store. Who can forget that place..
Who is ..Not who U think I am. ..You seem to know the girls from Bath Ave. Curious. You have to be someone I know very well.

Mike G.. Yes I remmeber mike Golliver & Tommy Hamburger.. Know them very well through my older brother..

i think i know dora and christine. i hung out with their daughter doreen most of my teen years. is that who u mean?

hI ac THATS WHO I MEANT I HUNG OUT WITH CHRISTINE AND MY SISTER GERALDINE WAS DORA'S FRIEND .THER MOTHER HAD RED HAIR . DO THEY STILL LIVE IN BROOKLYN . I MOVED TO LONG ISLAND IN 68.IF YOU STILL KEEP IN TOUCH TELL DORA GERALDINE /GERRY PASSED AWAY IN 94 OF CANCER.

yes joann,
Christine(babe) and dora stil liv on bay 17, i was very close with dora's daughters all three of them. i have not seen them for a couple of years, but my sis still lives on bay 17, so i will pass the message.

December 13th is right around the corner I hope to see most of you there if you don't know what I'm talking about find out I know Mike G and the Burger will be there

Mikey G I hung out with you and the guys first on Bay 13th then we moved to 16th Ave I'm one of the few originals from the days on Bay 13 in front of the old dress factory

RIP Anthony Spero- good friend of my father's. Sally Spero also.

Anyone remember ansalone's photography on 86th? Lived there and behind the auto parts store on bay 17th. What about the slot car track in the basement of the building next to the car wash? Julies candy store on benson ave? Those days are foreever etched in my mind.

ANYONE REMEMBERS THE FUN HOUSE DISCO IF SO WE DO REUNIONS OF THE FUN HOUSE NOW AND THEN NEXT ONE IS DEC 12TH 2008 IN STATEN ISLAND ILLUSIONS NITE CLUB AT 3995 AMBOY RD 10308 REMEMBER THIS SAYING BE THERE OR BE SQUARE

HEY MONK,
I WILL GO TO ILLUSIONS FUN HOUSE PARTY (AND MAKE JOHN WEAR HIS ORIGINAL FUNHOUSE TEE SHIRT). U HAVE TO COME TO MINE AT BISTRO (DISCO) DEC 5.
LIKE U SAID BE THERE OR BE SQUARE!!

AC

YES AC I WILL COME TO YOURS U BUY ME THE FIRST DRINK AND ILL BUY YOU THE REST PS YOUR JOHN CANT FIT INTO THAT SHIRT NO MORE IM SURE

anybody know Vito Desantis?

ANYONE WHO GREW UP ON BAY 7TH STREET IN BENSONHURST durning the 70s 80s.

Hey Peanuts you better keep hidin out there in the Mid-West

Wow, what an interesting board. I too spent my childhood in Bensonhurst/Bath Beach in the 80's. It wasn't the greatest place in the world but it's only natural to have a certain affection for your childhood.
It's the little things that leave the most potent memories. The smell of the radiators in Mr. Pasqua's class at PS 163. Marie, the lunch attendant bringing her bag of tennis balls to the schoolyard. Playing Suicide(Asses Up) againt the wall in the school yard. I even miss Ms. Gertler yelling at me. Running, (literally) home from St. Finbar Sunday school to go to More Fun (in Ceaser's Bay) and play the latest video games. Football in the snow, Wiffle all summer, how did we get 12 kids in one driveway for one paticularly big game? Getting thrown out of the Loews Theater (and we deserved it) The Deli section in Aliello's supermarket Yum, stopping by that coffee shop on Bath (near 18th) with like 70 cents and being able to get baseball cards and a good amount of candy.

Oh the unique experience of dealing with all the delinquents, criminals and characters. Helped me a gather a unique perspective as an adult.

Oh well, it's fun the hear the stories.

WHERE IS SALLY CHIPMUNK ? AND WHERE IS POURIE BUSH AND HIS BROTHER DONNIE HEDGES

I MISS JULIES EGG CREAMS AND CRAZY ROSIE AND DONT FORGET JOE BOY

john d. is looking for the old star pimple balls ( unless he has pimple balls allready) we used to buy them in herbies on 17 ave and bath anyone know where we can find them today

when we all played softball in 163 schoolyard in the 60s and 70s the best centerfielder had to be joey amari MINI (he never missed anything )

who remembers lorenzo"s dry cleaners and who owned it and where was it located ?

pourie bush is MIA last was he asked tucci for a job maybe he knows where to get the pimple balls mikey g i did'nt know you went to the dry cleaners but then again we all got a little dirty on bath ave. especially in those early years on bay 13 before we moved to the high rent district on 16th ave

cant wait to see everyone on the 13th should be a great party, as usual.

monk,
dont forget tonite at bistro, S.I.
disco party - u are buying the 1st drink
if i see u there, i will come to funhouse party reunion at illusion next friday. see u tonite!!
ac

HI MISS THAT OLD NEIGHBORHOOD SURE I REMEMBER OLIVERS BAR BATH AVENUE, 15TH AVENUE, NEW UTRECHT, GOLDEN DOVE, BOB SHO BOB, REVELATIONS ON AND ON ANYONE REMEMBER 18TH AVENUE HANGOUT PARK

Anne, you mentioned West 1st Street, PS 177, Boody and Lafayette. I'm a bit younger but same heritage. Go back periodically to check things out, the people and the stores changed the houses are the same

See you all Saturday night I'm getting my wings ready

Hi does anyone want to have a summer reunion maybe at Gateway Park in the Summer let us make a plan for Staten Island Meeting Place what do u think email me Dee

remember good old new utrecht avenue yes there was a club there and also ac u are right doreen do u still see the old crew let us start a crew

hey dee i know and remember all those places you said do you remember docs bar 62st and 17ave?????

WHAT A GREAT PARTY AT THE HILTON SATURDAY NIGHT. GREAT JOB JOHNNY BOY. THANKS

someone was asking for Antonio Fama.

Saturday night was great I can't believe the people I saw some of them I have not seen in over 25 yeears it was a blast I can't wait for the Tiki.

I am amazed at the number of post's on here. I grew up on Bath Avenue it was the greatest place in the world! I am replying to this post:

Awesome site! I'm 42 and reading so many names that strike a bell. I went to 176, dyker jhs and new utrecht. Dyker was the the best. Anyone know what happened to (bath ave boyz) One eyed ritz, danny/dee dee, micheal natalie, scott reback, anthony ferrara, clifford barficlione..speel check on all these names. They guys were either in my class or driving me and the other girls crazy at lunch time. Remember mr. Lobello the bio teacher? we abused the hell outta him (loved him he was my homeroom teacher)and he would call us a bunch of fking burnout barbarians lol. Mrs. mischik dragging us around by the ear through the hallways. I was from the other side of bensonhurst...13 ave. Missed those yrs, times, people. :sigh:

Posted by: Bklyn Years at July 8, 2008 5:35 PM

I was in that class with you. My name is Mike and I used to throw whole pieces of loose leaf paper ( that I would suck on and get really wet) at Mr. Lobello when he went to write on the board. If you see this get in touch at bonzz626@comcast.net

Are you a Pucciarelli?

Are you a Pucciarelli?

i lived on w9 st highlawn ave my name is sammy d any bodie remember me

i lived on w9 st highlawn ave my name is sammy d any bodie remember me

i remember aii the stores larry fruit,max candy,good food, i was involed in trusty car service, w 8 kingshwy,gallos pool room,w7 kingshwy jimmys lunch. bay 35 &86 st. pete rao from raos on w11st passed 2 years ago

i remember aii the stores larry fruit,max candy,good food, i was involed in trusty car service, w 8 kingshwy,gallos pool room,w7 kingshwy jimmys lunch. bay 35 &86 st. pete rao from raos on w11st passed 2 years ago

does anyone here remember maurice fox and his brothers from bay 13st. he lived on the corner of b 13 and bath if anyone knows were he is now let us know

sammy i know who you are

Hey I remember Bensonhust too! I got my ass kicked there when schools were bein intergrated (1965) and they sent black students to Lafayette High School.No hard feelins though, Those days were the best even with the ass kickins.People were REAL and u knew who your true friends were.

I grew up on bay 13 between bath and benson ave. It was the greatest block to live on. i had lots of great friends on bay 13, guys like joey digraizia -steve and mikey dell, johnny boy tommy hamburger mikey dazio, keys, john d. these are all guys who all grew up bay 13. great friends that could never be replaced and always be remembered.and johnny boys best friend that ASS Frankie Dinunzioand lets not forget LEO GENTILE Annette leventino"s boy friend.that is why it is so great to have a guy like JOHNNY BOY who still keeps us still all together.he is the greatest friend a friend could have. thanks johnny for being you

I lived above Trusty's car service at 258 Kings Highway & West 8 Street. I'm one of the Corrao brothers. It later became a news stand called Yogi's. The owner was a guy named Patel. The local kids used to break his balls. I used to work there and next store in Fiorentina's in the late 70's & early 80's. I remember guys like Pete & the Paruda brothers. Trusty's car service was wild back in the early 70's.
Anyone remember brothers Pat & Alby? I know they both were shot and killed a few years apart.

Merry Christmas to the boys from Bath Ave. It was great to see all of you at the Hilton. Have a great New Year stay warm I know I am

I WAS SO HAPPY TO STUMBLE ON THIS WEB SITE.. I GREW UP ON 14THAVE BETWEEN 86TH AND BENSON... DO YOU REMEMBER ANNA MANCINO, ARLENE MANETTI, ARLENE CARANANTE, ROSEMARY MATHERS, SUSAN, DEBBIE LINDA AND BOBBY MATHERS,, HOW ABOUT FRANKIE AND CHARLIE LOCICERO...WOW HOW ABOUT PAUL AND JOSIES CANDY STORE AND BEFORE THEM HELEN AND SAL OWNED IT.. WHO IS RICH M... YOU KNEW CLIFFY GALBO, TOMMY FARACI, PAMP, TONY GINTA, JOHN ABBATE, CHARLIE LINKSMAN, JOEY GEPPITONE, CAROL SAPONARO OH THERE ARE SOO MANY GOOD PEOPLE GROWING UP.. WE HUNG OUT IN 229 SCHOOLYARD AND 204 AND ALSO WE HUNG OUT IN TESSIES CANDY STORE,, HOW ABOUT RICHIE DYKE... WE HAD SOME GREAT FUN... BOBBY CARLSON, KEVIN HICKEY, DOES ANYONE HEAR FROM ANY OF THESE PEOPLE..DENISE LAVARATA, JANIE RUSSO, DEBBIE DESANTIS, CARLA MURATORE, LORETTA VOLPE.. HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL LOVE DONNA

Happy New Year all. I moved from Bensonhurst(17 ave and 81 st.) back in 1958. I find myself driving back to the old neighborhood once or twice a month, and just crusing around.I found the old ravoli store on New Utrecht ave and Villbatte on 18 th ave.The great pizza/bar place on Bay 13 and Bath is gone, replaced by one family homes. Can anyone reccomend a good/great Italian restaurant in the area?

Thanks

hey mark me and my brother ran trusty car servicesammy and frankie we also had gallos pool room on w7 st then we had the fruit store next to fioreentinas i still see dom now then i still have a tab at yogis ha ha the guy who says he knows me is that franky with a y

I just happened to stumble across this site today. What memories man. After reading through some of the posts alot of names stood out. If you are truly from Bay Parkway you should figure out who I am. A few hints. I grew up with the second gen Bay Parkway Boys. My cousins and their friends were the orignals. I lived on 74th and BP right across from seth low park. If anyone remembers me shoot me a email at Mst_sgt_maverick@yahoo.com

Hello. I was just wondering if anybody had any pictures of the Famous Cafeteria on 86th Street that they could scan and send me?

Both sets of my grandparents lived on 65th street in Bensonhurst. We used to go up to either 16th or 18th Avenue all the time (whatever had the Walker Theatre).

Thanks,
Dan

Hey Sammy,
I remember the fruit stand and pool hall. I probably remember you, if I saw your face.
I used to hang out with guys like Frankie & Joey T, Chris P, Donald Mac, Johnny Bud, Pete Femme, the Arcati brothers, my brothers Anthony & Dave and quite a few others too. We used to hang out around West 8 Street & Kings Highway and also West 9 Street and Quentin Road.
Does anyone remeber the feast they used to have on Highlawn Ave run by the BBA? It ran for a few years. I always felt like that was our own, on our turf.

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL THE GUYS FROM 16 AVE AND BATH ; SEE YOU ALL AT THE NEXT PARTY

Happy New Year To everyone ....Hope this is a great year for all of us...

Who remembers Jerry Apizzzz on Bath Ave and eating whole tomatoes out of the can with the guys in the back, throwing ash cans on the rocks down by the bay and watching the rats take off, and all the guys on Bath Ave from the youngest to the oldest. Saw some of the guys from Bay 16th at the Hilton I'm still afraid of them (not really) Greg A was always a nice guy

Yo A. I grew up on 81 street and 20th avenue in the 60s. I went to PS201 and Lafayette and graduated in 1968. Yea yea things have changed, but Bensonhurst always was and will always be. New scenery, but good people all the way around. The best feeling is when you see kids hanging out, different when we did on 86st and 20th avenue at the candy store and there was a deli that had the best corned beef and potato salad. On 86th street and 21st was the pool room, Sal the cop owned it and we all got an education there. There were real guys, Sub, Jimmy, man those guys shot pool and we all learned about life. I miss the old neighborhood, but life is life, you cannot go back, but forward I am proud to say I remember Bensonhurst and have the kids on here, I remember your mothers and fathers and hung out when, like you, you were proud to say you live in Bensonhurst

What a great site! My father use to own Independent Meat Market on Bath Ave. and Bay 14th for years. I sold it back in 1985. What great memories I have of the neighborhood.

Does anyone remember any of these names from 13th Ave:OLDER...Keith(aka, Hilt,Jr.)Chico, Stanky, Johnny Babes,Mario Sessa.
YOUNGER...Eddie "Beak" Pascale,Louie"Gigs"Giglio,Louie"Bop" Patorelli,Frankie "Lanz' Lanziano,George Imbriale,Richie "Tic"Torelli,Vinny "Mud"Marsico, Danny Grimaldi,Carmine"Mouse" Colasanto, Al Bisaccia,Frankie"Duck"Frolo

Two of those names are familiar,Ed Pascale and Lou Giglio, but I remember them from Frankie & Johnnie's bowling alley and Steeplechase Pool along with Scarpace,DeRosa,LeBenz,Nova,Baldino,DeLea, Davey&Bobby Black.

does anyone know what became of a guy with the last name buttafucco he lived on bath ave accross from saint finbars he was a tough guy.around the 1950s and 60s

I am going to create a forum for us to post old photos of the neighborhood. If any here has any links to any old school photos, feel free to post the links. Thanks. By the way who remembers the bakery on Bay 16th and 86st in the late 70's early 80's. It became a Paint store thereafter.

Does anyone remember Bobby Benoit and Gerald Sefrany from Benson and Bath Avenue. Vinny BoBo who helped out at the church and funeral parlor. How about the gang at 3-star lanes. Bobby Grippo and Alfred, Carmine, Charlie Arnt, Roy the judo guy. Fun times

Hey Pat John,
Where is everybody these day? Wow haven't seen anyone from 25th Ave in years. My mom still lives on Bay 40th and I go to visit now an then.

Who remembers Mike Mitcthio riding his bike down Bath ave. and his brother Frannie, nice kid

Sally Blacks Grand sport loved that car

I remember Mikey Miccio using the highbar that was set up on 14th Ave in the Park between Bath and Benson.

Donna(poster Jan.3)Albert DiStefano would like to contact you if possible.

PS 163 school yard is no more.

They are building another school on that property.
What a shame.

Lots of memories....I saw some posts mentioning Greg Albi..his sister Susan was my 5th grade teacher at PS 163...she was beautiful...I ran into Big Nick and he has a store on Bath Ave where Jerry's used to be....he knows all of the neighborhood gossip.....I remember playing softball, stickball, hockey, basketball and handball in the 163 schoolyard, now it's a parking lot....there used to be a fenced in garden near the handball court....anyone know the history of that? it was odd that it was sectioned off from the rest of the schoolyard...I remember the sign, "John F. Gangemi is my friend" from Bay 13 and 86th Street....I remember renting Mo-Peds on 86th Street and 17th Ave...I remember Jimmy's Grocery store on Bay 13 and Benson with Jimmy, Ann and Marco....Jimmy Rinaldi's Grocery on 86th between Bay 14 and 17 Ave....lots of good memories

Mike Miccio I remember, how about Jimmy Emma and Papa Bear. They were some of the toughest guys in the neighborhood, but always were respectful of the older ones

I grew up on West 8th and Ave. T. Still live there. Let me tell you, the neighborhood has changed!! Growing up in this "neighborhood" was the greatest place to grow up. There were always about 40 kids playing outside. We would play manhunt, red light/green light or skully caps. When we weren't playing, we were hanging out on the stoops. When it was time for dinner, mothers would look out the window and whistle for us to come in. Now you don't see a soul when you look out the window. No more little kids hanging out, no more moms calling. It doesn't feel like a neighborhood.

One last memory I want to talk about is Ebinger's Bakery on Ft. Hamilton. I worked there when I was 13, stamping boxes. A bunch of us girls did this while dancing and singing to Madonna's Like A Virgin song.

What good times and great memories.

What's going on out there is everybody taking a nap. I know it's cold but your brains are not frozen. Sal Castellano question for you do you have a nephew named Joey G lived above the meat market on Bath ave.

Wow Just stumbled across this site like many others here.
I am 37 yrs old and was born and raised on 17 th ave between 86th and Benson. I have been reading posts on here that date back to 06.
Incredible , where have I been??? Living in Florida since 91.
I have been back to visit only twice since and it brings a lump to my throat walking through the streets of the Hurst.
Had great times growing up there and I wouldnt trade the memories for anything.
I think everyone has covered all the bases old names, places, people, feasts,block parties etc etc.
Any one remember Captain Kool Ice cream truck.
Jerry was the driver He was the best.
I remember how excited I would get when I heard the music from down the block.
I was a DJ back in the day and had my setup in a basement of an apartment building on 17th ave.
Lots of winter weekend nights banging old school freestyle tunes and partying.
I also DJed in the Paradise club on 3rd ave in bay ridge on the weekends had to be mid to late eightys.
Fun times. wish there were a way to post pics I have a bunch!!!
Went to PS 163 Dyker Heights and Laffayette.

Anyone know ANDREW BURGESS who lived with his mother off Ft. Hamilton PKWY, went to Brooklyn Tech, I believe.

Ok, I’m bored. Time to share. Lol

I grew up in Bensonhurst; 21st Ave. & 62nd St. from about 1975-1980 & went to Fort Hamilton High.

In my neighborhood, I remember BENNY, who lived around the corner, his brother FABIO. Across the street lived JACK MANNO, or Jackie. He had green eyes, I remember. A couple of houses down lived a girl named Cora, who was overweight & everyone made fun of. She was my friend.

There was ANTHONY GERBINO who lived with his mother & brother Joey, on 20th down the street from me. We dated over 2 years when I went back to Brooklyn the 2nd time. I remember TOM MARENO, FRANK FAGELLA, RIZZO (forgot his 1st name)...this blonde kid who lived right next door. There was FRANKIE “CRAZY DEE” DELALBA”, MICHAEL CARDINALE, who lived on 18th Avenue, SAL MALIGANTE (wrong spelling), who worked at the pizzeria on 18th & about 60th right by the subway entrance. I remember JOEY FARMA, ANTHONY FEMO, his cousin NOEL.

Of course FRANK ROMANO, who was a butcher at MEAT PALACE on Kings Highway, where I was a cashier. He drove a white T-Bird, red interior, red top. I remember he lived in a Letter Avenue, like Avenue T or Avenue O? It was walking distance from my house because I walked it.

I remember Andy Burgess & I would go to the CATILLION to dance, I wore my JOU-JOU purple satin pants & he wore the polyester shirt with matching pants. Remember NIGHT GALLERY & ROLLER PALACE? Remember skating to “Don’t stop til you get enough”, before Michael Jackson was white? lol

One night we went to the Catillion & saw KAREN “HOT SHOT” YOUNG with MUSIQUE singing “PUSH, PUSH, IN THE BUSH”. Lol Those were the days, huh?

I remember ALBA’S BAKERY, the deli next door... name, anyone?

I remember the pizzeria on Bay Pkwy, the movie theatre LOWE’S, where I first saw “LOOKING FOR MR. GOODBAR” & “GREASE” when it first came out.

Great memories...

If anyone knows anyone from those I mentioned please contact me on www.myspace.com/artmenace

This was nice. Thought I’d feel old but now I just feel lucky I got to live there at that time, when fun wasn't dangerous & guy's pants actually fit.

Does any remember Korvettes before ceasers bay.

Does anoyone have any pics???

Does anyone remember the record shop on Bay Parkway between 85 and 86st and the cigar store on the opposite corner. I remember the night Hubert Humphrey came there back in early 60s.

Great memories have been stirred up with this site. Does anyone remember:

John F. Gangemi is my friend
Ices from Gentile'
Slap Ball
Gail's Bakery
Yo-Yo tournaments at PS 163 school yard
Mr. Cucci taking those yo-yo's along with stacks of my baseball cards
Jimmy's grocery store...with Ann and Marco
Jimmy Rinaldi's cold cuts
Stacy's Car Service aka the fireworks store
Daily News routes....collecting was a chore
Chinese Handball with asses-up for the loser
Freeze Tag
Single, Double, Triple
Mr. Chin's shop class
Miss Albi's mini skirts

I could go on forever....

HI Cathy, how've you been? I still talk to John Keene -he's still in brooklyn. Joe Ricci- he is out south jersey. I used to see Paula and Patti- I owned a bagel stoer in central jersey- they came to my sons birthday party. Lisa Buggliaro lives out be me. I heard that there are a lot of people on Face Book. I need to set up a profile soon. I go back to the neighborhood 2x a month my inlaws live in brooklyn. I still go to L&B in the summer.

can anyone name 3 guys who worked in jimmys meat market on bay 13 and benson other then jimmy and his family

I can go on for days regarding the good old days. Many of the posts are exactly who I was, what I did, and who my comrades in arms were. I went to PS 229 and Dyker Heights in the 50's and 60's. some teachers were: Mrs. Gilholi, Mrs. Lafiandra, Mrs. Lynch, Mrs. Cassidy, Mrs. Romeo, and Mrs Flahaven. Some cohorts were: Carlo Fiorenza, Danny Ilardi, Robby Braswell, Mitchell Azzolin, Joe Tringale, Eric Agostanelli, Cliffy Galbo, Alfred Picone, Sally Cascone, Carl Alfano, and many more. I lived on Bay 10th St. between Bath and Benson. I'll be back to reflect more when I have time.

Ciao

I remember Mikey Miccio, Petey Pecs and Artie Gort.

Who can tell stories about Bath Beach Bodybuilding ....Bay 13th and Bath... Jimmy Emma and Papa you could include Zap in there to

looking for david grazino , john maguilo sorry for the missed spelled last names we used to go to john dewy high school back in 78 79 never went to class we were called the cutters from the securty guard

I was there when they got the air conditioner. I'll never forget Mikey Miccio reaching toward heaven and saying "I Can Breathe"

i lived on bay 13 and bath ave for 15 years in the early 60s and 70s and dont remember bath beach body building please refresh my memory

I know it was on Bath Ave. and Bay 13th Street for a few years and then it moved to Bath Ave between Bay 11th St. and 16th. Ave.

I remember Bath Beach Bodybuilding being on 86th Street between 18 Avenue and Bay 17. I could be wrong. They then moved to Avenue U. I still see Big Mike now and again. He was a cop in the 78 pct for a while.

Bath Beach Body Building was first located in a small store front on the first floor of the apartment building acrss from Frankie Ponts luchonette on the corner of Bay 13 and Bath say it loud and say it proud

im still living in bensonhurst ...To many crew and lots of problems lately many local gangs hispanic and italian's run the trouble over there but the chinese and the russian and jews have been buying many stores around here ......The gangs and crews that are still around are
MKZ:MEXIKINGZ[Gang]
AUB:AVENUE U BOYS[Crew]
KHB:Kingshighway Boys[Crew]
E5B:East 5th Boys[Crew]
W1B:West 1st Boys[Crew]
ASB:Avenue S Boys[Crew]
CB:Crazy Boys[Gang]
Its like 2 different worlds if u are in any of these gangs or crews you know more about your neighborhood then anyone else just always being there knowing everyone around you The Mexikingz And Avenue U Boys Are still seen and known by many Crazy Boysz is the recently new gang which is now together with the Mexikingz From Kingshighway,Brooklyn in the gravesend/Bensonhurst Area Avenue U Boys Are known mostly to be seen smoking marajuana on the corners ...crimes mostly Drug Dealing Not To Much Violence ....Mexikingz play That Part of Crime such as stabbings ,robberys, shootings have been heard on kingshighway threwout West 1st -West13th They Maintain To Be On Kingshighway There Crime Rate Has increased by 10% in the last 6 months The Mexikingz Have Been Gatherng Young Hispanic Youths From the Neighborhood of Gravesend,You May Find Mexikingz Also known as MKZ from kingshighway to Avenue U .....AUB AND MKZ HAD THERE PROBLEMS IN THE PAST BUT AS TIME PAST BY THEY SEEM TO BE HAVING NO SIGNS OF TROUBLE WITH THE U BOYS These are Recent Updates about Gangs in the Neighborhood

That's too bad John there was a day when that would'nt happen I'm not saying there was not any trouble between rival gangs it was mild at best but there were certain people that would'nt stand for that, they are all gone now.

that gang stuff aint happening on bath ave between19 ave and 14 ave the best place in bensonhurst (BATH AVE)

The only truly Italian part of Brooklyn today is Dyker Heights. The area is 15th Ave bordering 86th Street, 11th Ave, between 86th and 79th Street. It's really only about a 10 block radius. If you walk along Dyker Heights BLVD (13th Avenue) you will see Italian restaurants, pastry shops and pizza joints. The area has multi-million dollar historic homes and is pretty expensive. Most of the people in this tiny area know each other and are protective of their neighborhood.

Bensonhurst is definitely over as far as the Italian American influence, except for a few senior citizens that still live in the neighborhood.

Unfortunately some of the new immigrants have trashed up the area and brought down the image of the area, it's less family oriented, people keep to themselves, it's not lively, trash is in the streets.

I made a documentary about this in 2007: www.myspace.com/newyorklost

Hey...I came across this website by mistake.I started reading everything and all my Bensonhurst memories came back. I grew up on 18th ave in the 70's&80's..The 80's were the best days of my life!Bensonhurst definitely changed.Growing up yrs ago was different.The blocks were filled with kids running,playing and laughing in the summer and winter. Summer evenings the adults were also outside,everyone chatting with one another.The whole neighborhood was like a big family. Everyone knew each other and everyone's parents were always looking out for someone else's child.It is very sad to say it is all gone.You hardly see children playing,or neighbors outside anymore, everyone keeps to themselves.No more friendly faces or smiles..Your lucky if your own neighbor says hello its horrible.But I have to say at least I have those good memories that I share with my kids and hopefully they share them with theirs!

Mount Olympus Bodybuilding!!! What a crew we had up there. Hope some of you are still left. God bless.

Dose anyone come from 82nd and 17th. If so, do you know the whereabouts of Sarah B from 82nd. She was my prom date in '58 and I always wondered how life treated her.

hey guys i grow up in the marlboro projects in the early 60s i was a young boy when we moved to 43st, but ill never forget the projects, i went to ps212 from the 1st grade till the 4th, my older brothers was johnny-frankie-sister linda,robert and joe, the last name is romaniello,anyone remember any of us? tomromeni@yahoo.com would love to hear from anyone who remembers us

Born and raised in B-Hurst, 1969-1994. Just moved BACK to the house I grew up in after 15 years. Anyone from 20th Avenue (80-90) out there? I'm talking about the "corner" in front of Candy-Cards candy store and the St. Dom's steps? On my stoop on 19th avenue and 76 street. And PS 186 schoolyard as well. My nickname was/is John G-Head.
Some of the others: Salty Sal, Rod, Paul Red, Lenny Splinter, Levitt, Cheddar, John Jaw, the Tumminia's (sp?), Jimmy-John, Weegie, Danny Stiff, Brian Sullivan, Greg Gatto, Larry Wacko, Dino, Frankie, Vinny Gar, Pepe, Espo, Fama, and so many others.
Block parties in the summer with Frankie Bones DJing, football and softball schoolyard leagues, every corner a hang out, fruit bombing off rooftops, manhunt, spongeball, suicide (off the wall).
Have to say, after all this time the neighborhood itself is pretty much the same, but the peeps are different. All good though. Still a great neighborhood and walking around now brings back different memories every time.

Hello Everyone! Just looking over some of the posts I get serious flashbacks. I grew up on Bay Parkway and 74th st. directly across from Seth Low park from the mid 70's to 1992 when i moved to Staten Island.
The Old Crew Me, Billy, Matt, John, Ricky, Chubby, Karl, Mario & Santo. Anyone remember us. In the late 80's we were the ones that drove everyone nuts with out dirt bike's. ( Still Riding Today )
Things I remember growing up. Seth Low Pool, Marlboro Theater, Parkway Video. Jahn's Ice Cream on 86th street. Joe and Daves Toy Land playing Asteroids and Pacman for hours on end. Del Golfo Pizza's Meat Rice Balls with sauce. I lost count how mant times we trashed that place. Ivan's Pawn Shop on ave O. Bought my first engagement ring from him. Cedar Bay and Egg Haven. Just to name a few. If anyone remembers me you can email me at rbunkis@gmail.com I would like to catch up with old friends. Rob

Hello every one from Bensonhurst...past and present. Growing up as a young girl in BKLYN was the best. Everybody on your block was family. Lived on West 6th and Avenue O, went to P.S.177, occasionally snuck into Catachism on Wed.'s to St. A's. My friends sister gave me her uniform. Also went to gymnastics
at St.A's for rec. Would have gone to Seth Low, but moved when I was 12. No one else in the world knows about skully, but us.
One of my neighbors worked for Schlitz Beer Co. and used to get me bottle caps. Games were always going on. Trying to teach LI kids how to play punch ball was a challenge...especially being a girl. As one of the few girls who always played in the school yard of 177, hitting that little ball over the fences was the goal. Moving to LI from BKLYN was definately culture shock.
There was no such thing as play dates..why so formal..just play.
Does any one remember Lapalina's on West 5th and Avenue O.
The little candy store that Tony owned. Just a few names from the block Karen Polleo(the Polleo family), the Storelli's, the Santos brothers, jamie Markowitz(65th Street) Haven't been back in quite a few years...but have great chidhood memories. My kids just can't imagine that I actually grew up there. It really was a wonderful place to live and grow up. Talk soon...so glad I found this site. Shari

Hello to all my fellow Brooklynites. I can't believe this site exists, so many of us with great memories of childhood days in Bensonhurst, BKLYN. There was no better place to live and grow up than BKLYN. I grew up on West 6th and Avenue O in the 60's and better part of the 70's. I moved to LI when I was 12 and just missed going to Sethlow JHS. Went to PS177 and basically played punch ball till it was time to go home for dinner. Lost contact with most of the people i grew up with after i moved. My parents would drive me into BKLYN on weekends, but then everone i hung with started to move...and there you go.
So many memories of Sethlow Park pool in the summers, the walk home down Avenue O...and the slice for the road. Selling Lemonade at the train station...beads in front of the appt.'s and playing everything from skully,punchball, stoop ball, stick ball, box ball..man hunt etc, etc. At that time it was a kids paradise!

Some of the friends that i have been looking for lived on my block like Karen, Barara Anne and Ralpie Polleo, Jimmy/ Johnny santos, Lydia Storelli, Rosemary Guzman, David Augenblick from
West 5th..Jamie markowitz from 65th and O. Does any one remember when Nelly Bligh ? Korvettes and fishing off the ledge there.(it wasn't really a pier) Lapalina's restaurant on Avenue O and West 5th. The little bakery next door and Tony's candy store. What a trip this is.... if you were in the neighborhood would love to hear from you!
My E-mail is drsrj4u@yahoo.com This truly is a great site.
Thanks for the memories!! Shari

We all hung out at 74&20th in the late 60s early 70s,Jimmy,Eric,Ronnie,Nicky,Louie,The Zar,Froggy,Billy,Tommy,Carl, great times.

Hey Frankie M,
Captain Cool (Jerry Pezone) died almost 10 years ago. He also worked in Saint.Finbars lunchroom. I rember the egg creams and the 10cent punks for fireworks.
I live on Bay 16th and 86th for 30 years.

Do you remember the fruit store on 17th ave and 86th where some guy got hung. I think it was called Franks Fruit store. This must of been in 82 or 83

I used to sit in my car on bath and 16 ave on weekends with puddy, patty bo and stinky drinking miller nips and 45s in the late 60s and early 70s who am i

Guess Who you have to fill in a few blanks here in the late 60's me puddy ralfie tucci matty eyeballs etc hung out on bay 11 we were still going to cabrini no one was driving, then in the early 70's we all hung out on bay 13th me JB dorme hamburger, dario, gulliver, puddy,tavio, tucci, ralfie etc you know who I mean, Then we hung out in derosa's we were 16-17 maybe some guys had cars then, then there was the "merger" with camp,yak and those guys and it all exploded around 73 on 16th ave 30 -40 guys some nights you could be anyone of those guys, even me, so help us out here give us a hint

And I can't forget my man Cap and of couse Joey G

Wonderful photographs.
You should share them at flickr.com
It's a wonderful place.

My mother's side of the family is from Brooklyn and my father's Detroit. Thanks so much for sharing.!!

my earlier statement saying i used sit in my car with puddy and other guys on bath and 16 was a mistake it was not the late 60s it was mid to late 70s sorry guess who i am

CROPSEY PARK IN THE 1980'S: THERE WAS A LOT OF METALHEADS!
BIG "LITTLE" SAL
CHRIS MINEO
HIS BROTHER LUX
BILLY WHITE
TOMMY LUPO
TWIGGY
PAULIE
DOUG KLEIN
THE SHYSTER BROTHERS
PEANUT AND GREG(TOR)
THE VISLOKI BROTHERS
STEPHEN SPIEGAL
ROY RUSSO
SAL TORONTO(AND LEANN)
ALAN BENNETT
WAYNE(CAT)FROM ENGLAND
CHRIS DEGENNERO
LISA GAP
JAY JAY
TOM LEFLEUR
MIKEY FRANCO
I'LL REMEBER MORE SOON

if there is anyone from bay 13 st. here do you remember contenta who lived under r. keys man she was hot mikie d loved her

Is that Mikie Dell or Daz......how is Keys feeling?

I think Leo Gentile and Annette Leventino got married to each other

Guess Who was that Mikie Dell or Daz, how is Mr. Keys feeling, last time I saw him he looked pretty good, I was going to guess you were either Paulie Bush or Larry S. the only guys I know who could sit in a car with Robert, Patty, and Steven,but then again you were drinking so you could be anyone of us but if you live on Bay 13th I must be wrong

Wow this all brought back some great memories!
Born in Baltimore MD, moved to Brooklyn when I was 4 lived at 7716 21st avenue for most of my youth, until 1974 when I moved to NJ. Went to PS 186 and had Teachers Ms. Powell K, Mrs. Storch 1st Grade, Ms. Glickman 2nd Grade, Mrs Cucaro/Mrs. Weingart 3rd Grade, can't remember 4th grade maybe Mrs. Glasser and Mrs. Klinger my last year at 186, Then went to Seth Low for one year before I moved. Played Punch Ball in the schoolyard. I remember the Jewish Deli on the corner of 75th and 20th avenue, there was also a Sweet Shop on the corner of 76th and 20th.
Always went to the Pizza shop, possibly called Mario's (I'm not sure of the name?) around the corner from me between 78 & 79 on 20th. I think there was a Bohack supermarket across the street. The Buster Browns for PF Flyers on 86th as well as Jahn's Ice Cream Parlor. Used to go bowling at an alley that was off 86th street some where up near the R & S Strauss store must have been like 15th avenue??
The "Green House" at the park across from Seth Low was where I had lunch most days during the school year, which was a hot pretzel with mustard. Played hockey in the street with strap on rollerskates. I remember there were a bunch of kids that always played on 76th street between 20th & 21st avenues. The JCH on Bay Parkway and 78th was the place we would sneeak into to play basketball becuase they had the best court and rims in the area. I remember going to the Marboro theater to see movies and block parties. Tony the Ice Cream Man, used to peddal his 3 wheeler Good Humour bike, ringing his bell and we would all meet him on the corner for some ice cream. Used to Barbecue on the roof of the hosue I was living in. Had a crush on some "older women" in the neighborhood. Gail was her name and she and her boyfriend let me sit down next to them and thier friends as they sang Hey Jude on the porch, all the "hippies" were sniffing glue, haha. Then there was Cheech, she had long brown hair, and a streak of blond. I think she lived in the apt building on 21st between 78 & 79. Hung out with Bobby & Ralph Figueroia, JJ and Vinnie Dolce, The Barisi sisters. and the Brothers on 78th street, Jerry, Anthony and Alley Boy. Ohh wow what great memories!

You are wrong i am not paulie bush or larry s, I did do a lot of drinking ( MILLER NIPS ) in my car with pudwin patty bo and stinky Oh it was DAZ not mikie dell and i lived on bay 13 st. many years ago not now

There used to be a guy when he was a kid he hung out on bay 13 with the rest of the kids he was always running, he used make fun of my nose all the time i would like to meet up with that kid now i think the kids called him dorme? oh yea by the way my nose is and always has been perfect,for an ant eater

ahhh "pudwin", that does bring back memories, those were great times, Guess Who do you live on S.I. now...and johncarlo what's your age about now I don't remember a johncarlo back when the Magic Lantern was on the corner.

here is a hint: When i was a kid on bay 13st. I was the victim of VINNY THE CHOKER aka L. Cafiero"s fat father. ASK JOHNNY BOY HE WILL KNOW WHO I AM RIGHT AWAY

I saw Joe Koz"s wife Donna in a supermarket tonight, if any one wants to know, she says Joe is feeling very GOOD. I hope to see him at the TIKI party .

i am 57 years old and i want to race that kid dorme. I bet you I can beat him by a NOSE

this is a little trivia question for the guys that grew up on bay 13 between bath and benson. the question is what did leo gentile show angela leventino in joey digrazia hallway

ciro once slapped me in the face. i am so glad you guys finally stopped hitting that wiffle ball at my window Lola says hi to tommy ventre

I'm going to start making my phone calls but I'm going out on a limb here and taking a wild guess are you M.G.

what is m g ? (more glue) ?

when we were kids on bay 13 about 10 of us would play football in a skinny alley way on the side of joey digrazia"s house how were we able to play in there. I THINK MIKIE DAZIO IS PROBABLY THE SMARTEST GUY ON THE PLANET I THINK HIS LOWEST GRADE IN SCHOOL WAS 100 THE GIRLS IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD THOUGHT GULLIVER WAS PROBABLY THE BEST LOOKING GUY IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD ALMOST AS GOOD LOOKING AS ME

does anyone remember that freaking lunatic that lived on bay 13 street mikey gulliver ?

I remember mikey gulliver he really was a lunatic (I knew his brother charlie,) him and his buddies johnny boy, john dorme, mikie dazio, tommy ventri, anthony di garazia they were such pains in the butt they probably still are. i know that ventri kid was not to tightly wrapped. i remember he broke one of the other kids nose and then he starred at me i thought he going to come after me too.He was always squinting like he was giving me that evil eye he really scared me. he was not someone you wanted to be on the bad side of he was a lunatic

I think at the next TIKI party everyone should mess up ronnie vitta"s hair

i am philip lobianco i still ride mini bikes

You gave your self away when you said Gulliver was good looking.....leave Philip alone....and Vitta's hair to....remember how Vitta would walk around in his underwear because he didn't want to get his pants wrinkled.....and don't forget the shark what day was that blown up on. Burger is one of the nicest guys around ( he still owes me $10 that's why I'm nice to him maybe someday...)

where is frankie d"nunzio ?where is corinne from bay 13 st.

guess again i am not gulliver i repeat i am not gulliver nice try though

i am going to give you a big hint. i used to live directly across the street from richie mcelroy ON BAY 13 and my initials is P. B. FIRST NAME PAUL

I hoping some of the guys would remember me because i rermembered everyone i am going to tell you who i am my name is paulie bloomquist

fast eddie in my opinion was always the best looking guy in the neighborhood

I was right P.B. Paulie Bush ( Paulie Bush was, is, and always will be better looking than Mr. Gulliver)

I was born in Coney Island and made my way to Bensonhurst at the age of 4 in 1967. Bensonhurst was a great place to be raised while growing up. We played in the streets till for all hours day and night. As early as 8 am and my dad would whistle out the window to come home for lunch and dinner. We played johnny on the pony, whiffle ball, ringaleaveo just to name a few. I remember on 86th stree there was Jahn's icecream parlor, Hy Tulip Deli on 20th Ave, Empress Deli on Bay Parkway, Ebingers Bakery on 21st Ave, Richeliu Diner on 86th Street between 20th and 21st Avenues. Not a one is there for many years now. We would walk the Avenue daily to run errands for our mothers as teenagers. Buying our vegetables from the Italian vendors, and the brothers that sold the lose candy in front of Fredda's Pork store. Spumoni Gardens L&B was always hoping, actually still is. People that moved away still come in for pizza on a beautiful day. We went to Nellie Bly who is no longer there, taken over and renamed. We learned how to drive in Korvettes parking lot at night. Wetsons was a fast food hamburger joint at the time in the same lot. Now it's Wendy's. My brother use to go crabbing behind the lot with his friends. On Ave U we had Tavernas discount stores, which has been gone many years. The Wrong Number Lounge which existed for over 30 years just closed down a few months ago. Times are a changing. I wish we could turn back the hands of time and have what we did back in the day. The only thing we have left now are MEMORIES. I hope I touched some of you with these memories of mine. Yes, LaPalina Restaurant still exists on Ave O and West 5th Street and the bakery next door to LaPalina'sis still there as well as Monte's Hero shoppe.

Not who U think I am sorry I haven't checked this site in a while. I have a cousin Joey G that lived above the butcher shop. He's 53 yrs old now. Is that who you are thinking of?

Not who U think I am sorry I didn't get back sooner. I have a cousin Joey G who lived above the butcher shop. He's now 53 years of age. Do you know him?

Hi my name is Rob R I still live in Gravesend
ave u and the west streets. attended Lafayette HS
class of 1980.
Like veryone else i did frequent the clubs that were big at the time Plaza Suite (1984-85) Fantasy Island (1983-84) I saw Madonna,Sylvester, Evelyn Champagne King and Grandmaster Flash.
Remember Promotions on Coney Island Ave (1984-85) It lasted about 2 years there was trouble there.
I was actually more into Heavy Metal/Hard Rock in the late 70s and early 80s
I was a regular at L'Amour (1980-84)
I hung out with Joey Esposit, Sal C and knew the guys from West 4th Street.
Hope to hear from someone.
Regards

hey: not who you think i am: what shark are to talking about

Johnny Barberro had the body building place on Bath ave and Bay 13th it then moved to 86th St. Remeber Petey Pecks? I grew up on bay 14 and 86th St later moved to 17th Ave and 86th St. hung out with Bay 16 boys. Joe Koz, Gregory Albi. Sal Valenti, Johnny the Greek, Sal the Wop,those were some of the originals...The gang grew and moved to PS 163 school yard...Remeber the giant mural on teh wall Painted by Bernie?...Remember the Playboys?

Sal yes Joey and I were friends when we were younger went to 163 togther I think he moved after awhile.....nice guy.

guess who spoke to JB yesterday can not figure out who you are same for Daz...I forgot to ask Cap I can call Dorm.. the shark stinky caught and they hung from the traffic light on 16th ave and stuffed it with m-80's

Saw Gregory A at the Christmas party, the Wop was there to and Mikey A

If you see any of the old Bay 16 boys let them know about this web site. Tons of peeps I'd like to know about

When Dazio was about 16 years old, He got caught on 18 ave with a couple of Bud 40"s in a paper bag by some detectives and he gave them his name and address. A day or two later the cops went to talk to Dazio"s parents at their home. The question is who was the guys with Dazio at the time. THE FUNNY THING IS I DON"T THINK DAZIO WAS A BEER DRINKER " WHAT WAS HE THINKING ?

Who remembers the teacher in 163 who everyone called FISH FACE

When Dorme was a kid playing ball in the neighborhood. He without a doubt was the fastest kid in the neighborhood HE COULD FLY

In the 1970's & '80s there were thousands of stunning & shapley very pretty females (& insaneley handsome dudes)who were all over the streets, in every shopping mall, and every fast food place all the gyms/spas at all times

Where have they all disappeared to ?

Now, only once in a while do I see gorgeous types, and not in groups either..
And they're now in their late 40's & up

Now, there are a limited number who are way younger who are somewhat above average looking but not AS above average as the teens of the 70s-early 80's

Where are they all hiding ??

D.D.

I remember Mr Depaola, Mrs Holland, Mr. Dijacomo

TOMMY HAMBURGER IS ONE OF THE BEST GUYS I HAVE EVER MET IN MY LIFE, REAL CASSY GUY. WISH THERE MORE PEOPLE LIKE HIM

BAY 13 ST. GUYS MIKEY DELL STEVIE DELL JOEY DINADIO,TOMMY HAMBURGER RAYMOND CATANIA CIRO, ROBERT COLLEGGIO, JOEY D"GRAIZIA,JOHNNYBOY, MIKEY DAZIO, ALPHONSE DAZIO MIKEY GULLIVER, RICHIE KEYS(MCELROY), JOHNNY DECE, JOHNNY BELITTI,FAST EDDIE, ANTHONY COLLEGGIO, JOHN DORME, VITO DORME, ANTHONY DIGRAIZIA,GILDA,JOHNCARLO TOMMASELLI, LEO GENTILE,ALLIE BOY VOLPE, VINNY VOLPE, CHARLIE MELFI, FRANKIE YATES, LARRY YATES,MS. OBEE.LAWRENCE CAFIERO, SANDY MCKNIGHT, JUST TO NAME A FEW

who remembers.. Frankie "bath beach" Cognetta and the boys

Hi all
I'm Don a hair stylistn
I worked in Vinny Venditties hair salon 86 st 20th ave,I cut 3/4 of Brooklyns hair,I am still cutting hair in Brooklyn for myself but boy things in Brooklyn has changed.

Never liked Bath Beach Body Building. Worked out in the hole, Ave. U. Gym owned by Lenny and Nicky in the 70's. And is Pat John the Pat John from Bay 41st?

there are to many comments about GOLLIVER on this site. thats right the spelling is GOLLIVER NOT gUlliver

I spoke to Joe LUSH today he told me about some of stuff that has been written on this site THE THING ABOUT RONNIE VITTA"S HAIR IS GREAT. I think guess who is either dorme or johnny boy who else would say dorme was the fastest kid in the neighborhood it sure was not me because i think i was

i was a bath ave boy... im one of the lucky ones that made it out. i remember you carmine.,

Stumbled across this website and it is amazing. I'm in NJ now- still not sure how that happened- but grew up in Bensonhurst in the 70's/early 80's. Went to 177,186, Seth Low and Dewey. My favorite teacher of all time was Mr.Prisco from Seth Low. Lived on 74th&20th and had a massive crush on my next door neighbor Dino mostly because he looked just like Scott Baio!! My dad worked at Geoffrey's exterminating on 20th between 74/75th street. I remember hanging out between Geoff's, Mike's pizza and Danny's candy store and went to girl scouts across the street at St. Dom's.
Then lived on 76th and 20th above Jimmy's (Balise)grocery store.
I remember so many places mentioned here..going grocery shopping every week to Hill's (before it was ceasars bay) then to chinese at Taeng Fong...every Friday. And I remember my parents would go to the Bay Lounge for drinks on 65th and BayParkway.
I moved to Mill Basin when I got married but went right back when I got divorced and lived on 63rd and 21st until 5 yrs ago.

louie jiggs is my hero

Wow, where has this site been my whole life. To read about Korvettes Jahs Richellue I cant believe it. I yse to work at Milk n Stuff on 85th and 29th as a kid. I hung playing ball at dyker and Bay 8th. I played in the expo football and softball leagues. I now live in Pa. I love where I am but I miss those days. The neighborhood has changed. Not too many peasanos as there use to be. I cant believe there is a mcdonalds on 13th ave, alba's is gone and so is the original sparos

Used to be a good or at least marginal hood. Alas Louie Tuzzio my best fiend found shot to death Jan3,1990 in his brothers camaro on his way to be "straightened out". Justice was sort of done, Spero got life and had to pay funeral costs and rotted in the joint till death with his codependents. Hope they rot too, Lou(RIP), Still miss you, but not the life. Anthony Spero I hope every day in hell is horrible torture for you for all the families you have caused suffering.

Denise Piccione I have been searching for you 20years. Still got a thing for you, you fine thing

Does anyone remember the name of the luncheonette that was on New Utrecht Ave,between 71 &72 Street,during the 1960's?

does anybody remember a guy named Frank Cognetta who was a member of the bath beach boys.aka frankie bath beach?

DOES ANYONE REMEMBER THE NAME OF THE DRY CLEANER ON AVE O BETWEEN West8th & West9th ST. BENSONHURST BROOKLYN IN THE 1960'S

Anybody remember TNT Car Service on 18th ave. and 75th St.?

Wow- youre bringin back amazing memories of Bensonhurst. I grew up on Ave P and west 10th.
went to Seth Low- and then to Dewey hs- grad in 75. love your pics!

did anybody hang out at bath beach bodybuilding on ave u and west 9th in the 70's and 80's.
thanks

I grew up on Bay 29th Street between Benson Ave. & Bath Ave. As kids my brother and I took the Bath Ave. trolley to Coney Island, or, better yet, saved the carfare for rides and walked it. We went to P.S. 200, JHS 128 and Lafayette H.S. We went to St. Finbar's. My dad was a mailman - his route was between Bay Parkway and 19th Ave., 82nd to 85th Streets (roughly). I'm writing a book now with this neighborhood as my background - it takes place in 1946-47. Does anyone know what kind of trees grew in the area? This was after Dutch elm disease wiped out most of the elms, but we still had trees on our block big enough to hide behind for "Hide and Seek." It's been great reading other people's posts about those great old places like Ebinger's and the Famous and Hy Tulip. What about Reliable Bakery, The Benson and Deluxe movie theaters and the 5 & 10 (before Jahn's) on 21st Ave. & 86th Street? My growing up years were 1943 to 1953: would love to hear from anyone who shares memories of this time. More stuff I remember: horsedrawn vegetable wagons, the merry-go-round on a truck, street games like stick ball, running bases and 3 feet off the ice, and the miniature windmill outside of a house on Bay 29th Street and Cropsey Ave. I can go on, but I might never stop.

I grew up on west 6 street and Ave U from 1939 to 1960. Lived in the apartment buildings right off Ave U. Hung out on the hill on Ave U between west 7 and 8 street in Mr Franks Candy store. Big deal was to get dressed up on Sat night with Peg pants that had a hi rise, saddle stitch and a sharp crease, feather weight shoes (black, silk shirt and stand in front of the candy store looking at the girls passing by. In those days your shoes were spit polished and you could see your reflection in them. A great bunch of guys and girls hung out there from 1956 to 1960. The neighborhood was always full of action and never boring to hang out in. You always felt safe on Ave U especially if all the Ave U boys knew you. If you knew your place and kept your mouth shut and was a regular guy who could be counted on in a fight to back up your friends then growing up there was fun. I am nearing 70 but still work out 2-3times a day and stay in top shape. Still working not retired and Still hit my punching bags every day just in case. I was always a health nut and workout guy and still am. If anyone out there hung out in Mr Franks during the late 50s and early 60s I would love to hear from you.
Larry

I moved to bay 14 between Bath and Benson about 25 years ago, and am still here. They are currently ripping up the school yard of 163 and enlarging the school. One of the saddest days was watching them take down the handball court wall.
Someone mentioned there was a mural on there, when I was younger as a little kid we all used to talk about it because you could see still see the top of it, we all wondered what it was...
I'm 32 now, still enjoying the neighborhood, but it's nothing like the when I was younger..

I haven't read through all of the above but, may I add...HOW about CANARSIE in 60's to early 80's. Now that was the BEST TIMES EVER! Never worried about trouble, being mugged or robbed even late at night. Keeping the back room screen window open for a breeze (No A/C for us then).

Many friends and dates galore. Strickly Italian and Jewish (I suppose you can call that a Ghetto)neighborhood. And then going to Queens and L.I. Never a dull moment. And NY sports (no boring skateboarding then - REAL sports - Yanks,Rangers, Knicks!). "Hey, youse talkin, ta me?" Going to the clubs, especially: Camolot Inn,That mansion disco Inn out in the Islands (forgot the name).All the beaches - esp. the nude one (was one in NJ too).Coney Island and the BEST FOOD in the WORLD BAR-NONE (remember goin to "The Village" and watching the 'freaky people' via side walk cafes & Ray's Pizza in Manhattan)

Ah man you can never go home again - it's all different now! But it stays in our dreams and our hearts FOREVER!

i sure do remember these guys i was one remember the hilts nettys bar billy black mikey guns and all the rest that practically lived in nettys bar how about jerry bronco lots of great memories

OK.......THIS IS FOR "NOT WHO YOU THINK I AM" I KNOW I HAVE TO KNOW YOU. I GREW UP IN THE APARTMENT HOUSE ON BAY 23RD WITH LOUIE BOP..HUNG OUT IN THE LUNCHEONETTE AND ON THE CORNER WITH PAPA, JIMMY EMMA, ZAPP LINDA, JANE, MARSHA JOEY MAZZIONE, STEVEN MAZZ., LALA, ROSANNE, I COULD GO ON AND ON. DO YOU REMEMBER TONY STAR'S, THE CATERING STORE, FANNY'S GROCERY, THE SCHOOL YARD?? COME ON GIVE ME A HINT.........

what ever happend to mike hamster and john dunn

Even though i came from 18th Ave my dad had a store on Ave O across the street from La Palina next door was the bakery and still is and next door was Tonys candys store. Loose pretzels 3 for nickel and greta italian ice.

i went to PS 48 on 6oth and 18th my Mom was give me a quarter for pizza soda and ice no its about $5 how times have changed.

I too remember Fantasy Island good tmes and fun.

who remembers Anthony Pigeon from Bay 16th street.

What happend after March 25, 2009? Looks like the messages just stopped. Not to be a nit-picker, but a good percentage of posts refer not to Bensonhurst, but to Gravesend. See Wikpedia here.

The board should be renamed Bensonhurst/Gravesend. In the 1960s, I lived on Lake Place between West 10th and West 13th (real close to the Spumoni Gardens); and later, on the corner of West 10th and Avenue S.

I love this message board. I would love to duplicate this on my own forum (with an emphasis on the Gravesend posts). I hope this message board is still active.

Peace and Love.

I grew up on Cropsey and Bay 26th from 83-01. If you went to Cropsey Park at that time you saw me. I was the only girl playing basketball with the guys. I had some childhood growing up there. Big ups to all my friends that remember those days. ShoreHaven was the shit back then. I remember JJ, Raul, Markis, Milton, Kia, Steven, Micheal and brother Anthony, Kani and Shami, Ahmad and the names go on.

Hey all,

I lived on Bay 10th between Cropsey and Independence and hung out with the Caso brothers and Joey Tedesco. After playing pee-wee football for St. Finbar's, we hung out on Bay 13th and Bath with Joey "Gunner" Demarco, John DiSienna, John and Joey Denatio, Frankie Catania, Ciro Metracano, Anthony Collegio, Alphonse Dazio, John Bolletti, Mike and Steve DelMonico, and Albie Catalano. We also hung out with Gary Carcaterra, Eugene Papandrea, John Canari, and can't remember who else. Those were the days

Hi Barbara: It sounds like your time and place in Bensonhurst overlapped somewhat with my time. I grew up on Bay 26 Street just off 86th Street. I also went to P.S. 200 and Junior High School 128. I was born in 1945 and lived in the same house until around 1967. I remember the Famous Cafeteria, Jahn's, the Benson and Loew's theaters and all the other things you mention as well as riding my bike to Coney Island all summer long. Would love to chat by email. Is there any way to share email addresses on this chat site without everyone on the site getting it?

Downtown Ronnie, Jerry Amato, Tommy The Snake, Billy Bright, Jesse, Sandy Barone, Johnny Inch, Joey Jap, Doc's, Egg Creams at Sal's 21 ave 85st, Seedy Edie, Enock, The Batts, Hi Tulip, etc etc

Downtown Ronnie, Jerry Amato, Tommy The Snake, Billy Bright, Jesse, Sandy Barone, Johnny Inch, Joey Jap, Doc's, Egg Creams at Sal's 21 ave 85st, Seedy Edie, Enock, The Batts, Hi Tulip, etc etc

Hey Monk How is B. Morrow? and yourself?
How is crew from Lamour's?
I am lost in the past right now.

my cuz billy passed away a little over ten years ago. we miss him. bath beach and bensonhurst will never be the way it used to be.
Posted by: cuz at March 17, 2006 3:09 PM

If I remember right Billy got it in Florida. Billy was one of my favs from the hood. Good looking, polite with balls of stone.

OK.......THIS IS FOR "NOT WHO YOU THINK I AM" I KNOW I HAVE TO KNOW YOU. I GREW UP IN THE APARTMENT HOUSE ON BAY 23RD WITH LOUIE BOP.

wasn't that Arthur Bop? with the big bash of a birthday party?

Does anybody remember Teddy Kiss? Hew had an old model VW Bug with an airbrush painting of Kiss on every panel. It was a beautiful painting...

To Louie "Bop" Pastorelli. All your friends from 13th Ave are still in touch with each other and get together on a regular basis. Let us know where you are and how to get in touch.

who remembers Crazy Abby, the guy on the bike with the flashlight who though he was a fireman.

he lived on bay 17th between benson and bath

How is everyone doing. I thought this blog was finished

I remember Anthony Bianco (Pigeon)
Hung out with the boys at the apartment building on 17th ave
down the block from me .He hung with Smiley, Andrew Defotta , Rondy Linthicum.
I also Remember the crazy dude on the bike with the flashlight thought he was a fireman.Spit all over himself when he talked.
Dude used to creep me out.

Is anyone on here from 275 Bay 37th st.
It was on the corner of Cropsey & Bay 37 st.
Across from PS 281.
Lived there from 1964 to 1968

I stumbled on to this site yesterday,and it took me back very nicely.I was born in Red Hook,raised in bensonhurst, West 9th st Kings Hwy, Sts.Simon& Jude and Utrecht hs. Loved Seth Low park,played there from 1965-74, before going to Wisconsin to play football. Great memories of the park, Mel & Marv /Scazzio & Maiella [basketball -sat+sun] Mike & Frank Grande, Jim Chianese, Andy Schwartz,Mike Blumenthal, Marty Zelendek[last 3 were fast] Joe Porco, Nick, Whitey, Gennaro, Solomon & Felix [football/ softball]. I'm sure i forgot a bunch of names like Nunzio & Ralph Franzese, David Rothberg,Louie Gilberti. Even though i got to play at Utrecht, The Big Ten,and The USFL , my fondest memories are still that special place. I also miss Vic's pizzaria [ been going 44 yrs at least], Villa Cucci[pastry, amaretto cookies and italian ices]. Also miss the HWY theatre across from Vic's, Numero Uno [my cousin Bruno still goes there], playing against Lafayette [Larry Goldstein, Joe Casserta, Angelo Grillo ,Joe Turzilli,Tommy Modaferri ,Greg Albi and so many other tough kids. They had an advantage called "Ace Adler", we had Liebowitz who couldn't find his ass with both hands. It's too bad about Lafayette and how bad it got, cause i always wished i had gone there. Recently, me and Turzilli hit Defonte's , Vic's and Spumoni Gardens in same day. It's funny how you get older and for me, the memories only get better. Anybody out there remember any of these past people and places? Love to hear from someone. So long!

who remembers Richie Mosca from Bay 22nd.
he was a nutjob.
What about Vinny Record Hut and Chris Tunes

does anyone know mikey g from bay 13 he drank a lot of beer

I was born in bushwick at the age 8 i moved to bay 13 st.What great street, What a great neighborhood. I am glad I had the opportunity to make great friends on Bath Ave. guys like mikey dazio, dorme, johnny boy, stinky, puddy, matty, tommy ventri, tommy vitucci, tommy eyeballs, dario parilla, jerry spadaro, andy ponesi, ronnie vitta, richie keyes , mike and stevie dell, joey dinadio, joey digraizia, vito dorme, charlie melfi, patty bo, louie jigs, paulie, GILDA, fast eddie, johnny belitti, frankie yates, raymond catania, tavio, jimmy d, cant spell his last name. joe lushner,johncarlo, jimmy"s meat market, joey deluca, ralphie ? maybe not him, crazy rosie,
joe boy, crazy vinnie he was joe lushner"s twin brother i think, johnny dece,vito neck, anthony amarante, anthony campisi, LOUIE, CARL, JOEY, ALL GREAT FRIENDS hey heres an idea lets have a christmas party

hey: joe g did you get married/ is that why the name change frome joe r to joe g. i know albi also you did not play football with tommy modafferi because his name is TONY GET IT RIGHT

does anyone know whatever happened to johnny raffa and his brother adrian from 17 ave

YES I TO LIVED ON BAY 37TH FROM 64 TO 68 SMALL WORLD JEANNIE

anthony emilio now looks like a singer from the fifties and sixties BURL IVES

anyone remember jimmy"s meat market on benson ave

I am John Ambro. I grerw up with the Bath Ave boys in the 80-90's I am 39 now. I know all the guys. Tommy Reynolds, Calco, Adamo, Calandra, etc. anyone around still rememberr

Crazy Vinnie was better looking, yes lets have a Christmas party, Burl Ives he was Frosty the Snowman. Bay 13 was the place nothing like it, for the record I never okayed the move to 16th ave, but I went anyway. For those who don't know JB's mom passed away last week,, aother Bath Beach icon has moved to a better place.

Hey I remember Adrian Raffa. We went to 163 together. He used to have that brown spot under his eye that some people used to make fun of. He was a good guy.

Hey, Harry's kid, Tom Modaferri #8, Gregory Albi #62, Angelo Grillo #19, Joe Turzilli #69, to name a few, all played for Lafayette hs 1973 [6-6 tie vs. New utrecht]. Great game, miss those guys, often wished i played with them and not against. Also, this Tom Modaferri went to TEMPLE and played with Joe Klecko of the Jets. Although, i did not grow up near bath ave, many of my relatives did live there for many years. Did you know Russell Benvenuto from the"front" corner pork store? Did you say you knew Greg Albi, is it the same one i knew [ around 53/54 yrs old, with Mom and Dad tatoo] ? If it's the same guy, ask him if he can remember # 44 of New Utrecht. Get back to me sometime! JG.

hey joe g. yes i know greg albi joe koz joey amari mike amari sal velenti mikey animal buddy raymond dishavi and the modafferi brothers were anthony and louie johnny raffa john black joey mutate raymonds older brother now deceased cathy bananna nose benny amoroso i know them all very well

gregory albi looks the same as he did as a kid still very huge guy but also a really good guy it always a pleasure to see him at some parties

J B"S MOM
WAS A GREAT LADY SHE WAS CONNECTED TO SO MANY OF J B"S FRIENDS IT WAS LIKE SHE WAS ONE OF THE GUYS AS A MATTER OF FACT BOTH HIS PARENTS WERE VERY SPECIAL PEOPLE. IT NEVER SEEMED TO BOTHER EITHER ONE THAT J B"S FRIENDS WERE ALWAYS AT THE HOUSE EVEN WHEN MR. MAZZ CAME HOME FROM WORKING ALL DAY AND HE NEVER THREW ANY OF THE FRIENDS OUT, YOU WILL NEVER FIND PEOPLE LIKE THEM AGAIN.I AM GOING TO HIS MRS. MAZZ AT THE PARTIES,I VERY HAPPY AND VERY PRIVLEDGED TO HAVE GOTTEN A CHANCE TO HAVE THEM BOTH IN MY LIFE EVEN A LITTLE BIT. YOU CAN EVEN SEE J B IS A LOT LIKE THEM . THE APPLE DOES NOT FALL FAR FROM THE TREE

I MISS DEROSA BAR ON 86 ST.

Hey T. Arnone, When did you live on west10th and ave S,and how old are you? Not to pry but i lived at 106 ave S[ west 10th] an apt. bldg in the middle of the block. There was a grocery store on the corner right across the street. I always played with kids older than me, and i remember names like Sal,Richie, Bronzo, and kids my age like Peter Schelful [ we used to race sewer to sewer a lot] than i moved to west 9th and Kings hwy. Strange thing is i'm still drawn to visit that place, even though it was tough times for my family. Funny thing is i went to Sts.Simon& Jude, and would have gone to Lafayette instead of New Utrecht if i had not moved. Do you remember the junk-man coming by ave S on sat. mornings, or the Good Humor man? Great memories!

joe.g/joe.r we played st s&j once in touch football at ps 163 on bay 14st i played for cabrini our coach was cousins with the S&j coach this was about 68 or 69.....Hey lindolindo I miss Derosa's to where else could a 16 yearold get a pitcher of beer for $2.50.. we would pack that place on the weekends. The juke box had everything from Jimmy Roselli to Led Zep,I can hear anthony guarino singing now "Statte vechinno meeee"

Just found this wonderful website and brought back GREAT memories. I grew up in OHIO and moved to Bensonhurt(Benson ave. between Bay 13 & Bay 14)in 1993. Attended St.Francis College ( played baseball)and moved to North Carolina in 1998.I didn't come from a tightknit family(always wanted one)but always felt like a part of one during those 5yrs. First week there I joined POWERHOUSE GYM on 86st. The gym was run by a fellow named MIKE. He had a handshake that was like a vice grip. Everyone in the gym loved him. He treated everybody like they were the most important person in there.He made walking in that gym like walking into a warm hug for everyone. One holiday(I believe was Easter Sunday)he closed the gym early. I was one of the last to leave and remember him asking everyone what their plans for dinner were. I told him I had no plans since I had no family here. He told me "no one should ever be alone on a holiday". He invited me to his girlfreinds house where I sat with thier family and enjoyed my finest meal ever.I will never forget my time in BENSONHURT as it was truly the greatest period of my life.

Hey, Not who u think i am. We did play Cabrini in 69 at that location. Our teacher from Sts. Simon, Mr.Giordano set up the game and we lost by a td. One of my friends at Utrecht hs, was Joseph Caso who played for Cabrini that day. He was good friends with John Lembo, one of the best players i ever played with in high school. "Small world".

To respond to Barbara and Joe G.
Yes, "Ace Adler" the coach from Lafayette HS is still alive. He just turned 80,living in Florida. The Benson, Marboro and Oriental theaters are no longer. The Oriental Theatre is now Marshalls and the Benson was turned into a Rite Aid. Reliable Bakery has not been on 86th Street between 23rd and 24th avenues for years. It was moved back in the day to 18th Avenue and 82nd Street. Alba Bakery and Angelo's Bakery from 24th Avenue are both gone. Even the Oriental Manor Catering hall and Colonial Mansion
are gone. The Oriental Manor just this past year was made into a large clothing store. Just thought I would fill you guys in. I am still in Bensonhurst near New Utrecht HS. Bensonhurst is NOT what it use to be.

Louie Deflippo,Douygie timko, calco, adamo, pollio, reynolds(i write to him in jail) those where the good old days. im john ambro holla at ur boy

Came from Italy at age 7. I saw 86th st. sidewalk and it blew my brain. It had to be 30 feet to the street. Where I was born, the sidewalk was maybe 2 feet to the curb...anyway, I lived first on 86 st. between 23 and 24 th avenues. The first McDonalds opened there back in the early 70's. That corner had a firehouse and our workout /hangout lot. It was awesome. Everybody knew everybody. No one was ever alone. You could be out there 7 days a week, 24 hours a day and there would always be a friend. later on in 1967, my parents moved us to a far away place, 21st and 73 st...LOL...was a mere 2 miles at best, but seemed on the other side of Brooklyn. My father owned Roma Pizza on Stillwell and ave W..I practically grew up by the Marlboro projects. I saw the filming of the French Connection back in 68-69...I remember serving John Franco slices of pizza and a coke everyday after school. He would stop in on his way home. He lived in the projects. John went on to Lafayette H.S. and was drafted by the L.A. Dodgers. I attended New Utrecht H.S. from 67-70.... Neighborhood was unchanged up until late 80's...but now it is but a memory. I now live in South Jersey and rarely visit. But my memories live on!

Hey guess who

.... Dorme was the best looking, and still looks great now... I knew mikey Galaver well. but not the best looking. lol .

Camille Kelly if your still looking for your borther Dennis I may be able to help post your email address and I will contact you.

Camille Kelly post your email address I have some information about yoru brother Dennis if you want it.

Here's to Mrs. "C" (and Papa C)! The 2 best people on earth! We miss you!

hey jerome from bath beach bodybuilding,been many years,how are you doing drop a line at bldguts@aol.com
gus greek

Louie Bop we are waiting to hear where you are.

Wow. Reading this stuff sure brings back lots of memories living in Midwood/Bensonhurst from the 50s to the 70s. Seeing the name Tommy Gallagher brought back memories. That area in Brooklyn has changed. Instead of Italian, Jewish, Irish and assorted other nationalities, it is now Chinese, Korean, middle-eastern and orthodox jewish. I don't see crowds of kids hanging outside bowling alleys or on the corners along Ocean Parkway. There's no Jahn's on 86th Street, no Cooky's restaurant, no Mitchell's Drive-In on 86th St, the signs on the store fronts I can't understand, no crowds of kids in the parks. Crowds in the 50s & 60s consisted of between 20 & 50 kids. I remember the Sethlow Park Boys, The Pentons, Holy Boppers, Dukes Of M, Jokers Of M, Golden Guineas, The Bats, and the toughest of all - the Bath Beach Boys. Dave was a body builder who got mixed up in drugs. Me and Nicky always had bands and played all over - The Worlds Fair, Central Park, all kinds of discos....Danny Bops, Zaff, Mazz, Marshmellow, Clyde, Eldon, Mimi, Landa, Linda, Cooky, Iris, Carmella....Petey, Crazy Louie, Lou Ferrigno hung out with us, Steve.....whew! Can't believe I remember all these names......but it seems like yesterday. Life was so exciting! Driving on 86th St in my buddy's convertible diggin' on all the chicks.....my band playin' at confraternity dances on Friday nights......takin' rays at Brighton Beach (Bay 3 or Bay 8)....diggin' more chicks.....life was exciting.....no cable TV, no video games, no A/C, no cell phones, everyone listened to AM radio on their transistor radios...life was exciting! It's very different today....no one can truthfully deny....the only place that's still around is Spumoni Gardens.....but we still have the memories, we always will.....of the Glory Days of Brooklyn.

hey mary d you probably know me also so GUESS WHO

DOES ANYONE KNOW JOE LUSHNA ( I HOPE I GOT THE SPELLING RIGHT ) FROM BAY 13 ST. HE WAS CRAZY VINNIES TWIN BROTHER. AND VINNY WAS THE BETTER LOOKING FROM THE TWO. WHEN THEY WERE YOUNG THEIR PARENTS ACTUALLY THOUGHT JOE WAS THE MENTALLY CHALLENGED ONE I THINK THEY STILL DO
LOL

Hey! Anyone here know contact information for Tara and/or Tiffany fenuta? They are twin sisters, grew up in Bensonhurst and would be around 38 years of age now. I'm trying to find them, I shot a Steven Seagal movie in Bensonhurst years ago, they were very cool. Please let me know at my e-mail address, mcpromos@gmail.com. Thanks!

Big Mike G-head how you been you nut i miss candy-cards and mike's pizza miss 20th and the old crew. married 32 years old and living in jersey great site! meet you at candy cards tonight lol write me rza3i6@aol.com

get ready 12/12/09

I grew up on 18 Ave. What a great place in the 50's. Does anyone remember Joyland, the toy store? How about Mike's Hobby Shop. Went to P.S 48 for kindergarten, then my parents sent me to catholic school for the next 12 years

Love this site.Started reading it at the begining of the World Series tonight Sat. 10/31 and now 2:17AM got to the end. Great memories. I was born and raised is Bensonhurst. Born 1949. Lived on 74th St. & 19th Ave..attended P.S. 186, S
eth Low and New Utrecht. Living in Manhattan for past 30 years. I do remember the Bandel Head Shop on 86th St. Actually I dated Bobby for a while..although he was one of the first in the neighborhood with long hair (he & his bro. Richie)older people thought they were hippies as though that was a bad thing, he was a great person. Would love to hear from some old friends both schoolmates and personal.

Some people i remember are:
Rosemarie, MaryAnn and Carl, Joan, Corky, Joey and Paul (bros.)Marilyn, Billy, Johnny, Jay Jay, Mary Valenti, Joann Piazza, Michael Katcher, Maryann Pugliese, Liz Licata, Sal, Ralph, Ronnie,
Francine, Debbie, Fran, Sondra, Andre
Would love to hear from any of you if you are out there and keep up this fabulous site!

I HAVE SOME GREAT MEMORIES OF BENSONHURST. BORN AND RAISED ON 70TH ST BAY PARKWAY. HAD A LOT OF FUN AND MADE SOME GREAT FRIENDS. SOME OF EM I STILL TALK TO AND THE CONVERSATION ALWAYS WINDS UP ABOUT THE OLD DAYS.
MY FIRST LOVE WAS A GIRL NAMED KIMBERLY MUNDR..... FROM BAY 32ND BATH. I'D LOVE TO TALK TO HER AGAIN.

I spent my childhood in Bensonhurst '62-72. PS163, Dyker Hts, Lafayette '72.I lived on 17th ave and 86th st. 8618 17th Ave. Boy do i miss that time of my life.
Someone out here asked about the fruit stand guys on 1th Ave - Frankie and Eddie owned it. They were involved with stuff, or eddie was and things ended as they always did in those days. I believe it happened sometime between '70 and '72. But i heard the gossip (which was always promptly squashed in those days about those things)that he was hung on a hook. Owed people money.Be that as it may, r.i.p eddie. He was a great guy and the kids loved him.Always smiling.He kept his eye out for this skinny little blonde girl and i was frequently at that fruit stand.I took the bus there to school.My dad would give me 3 bucks to keep a low profile, go see eddie for a carton of camels.No problem handing smokes to a kid, he knew my folks.Eddie was in a few side businesses.
Lots of great memories here!i lived around the corner from Rinaldi's, across the street from Minelli's. I forget the drugstore's name. We hit that spaldeen on the roofs of both of the apartment houses at the corner.The drugstore guy was really nice and owned that bldg and would go up every evening and throw the balls back down to us. Naturally we all wrote our names on the balls so we could claim them eventually. We wouldn't DARE take someone else's spaldeen.We got those, the cap rockets, all the halloween stuff, all our school stuff, and tops (remember that game, you had to get your top to spin on top of someone else's top in the street. Balsa airplanes, all kinds of stuff at Minelli's. The soda fountain at the candy store was great. i wish i could remember the owner's name - Nice man, he had red hair and didn't chase us away from hanging out in front of the store day and night.Names i remember:evie and nick pinnola lived a couple of houses down. We rented from old Mrs. DiLeonardo.Lived next door to Michael DiLeonardo and his crazy older brothers, in and out of jail.Kathy Feo across the street,MaryAnn and Francine -Francine's parents were supers of that apt.bldg,Maria Sergi, Paul Gallo- and so many names i can't remember!Sad about Lafayette-great h.s.in my time.You knew when i changed "boyfriends" because i would be making out with them in the stairwells between classes, etc. Snuck out of lunch to go to coney island in some guy's convertible-Tommy James and Shondells in cassette player.Pooling our money for cups of fries and those amazing hot dogs.Then sneaking back into school. Sometimes cutting lunch to go to White Castle. Those were the days! I now live in Pa. but i wish i could afford to go back, even if it changed. Life happened, the neighborhood is different. But i still think i'd like it.

ha everybody anyone hang out at the luncheonette on bay 25 cropsey

I'm looking for Joey Valenti, Jr. who went to Boody JHS in Brooklyn between 1969 and 1971. He moved to Westerly, RI sometime in the early 70s. Anyone know where he is? If so, please email me at jsl913@gmail.com We had a great time in Mr. Zarillo's math class, trading off the highest grades and grading the exams. Joanne

The Head Shop on 86th was called "One Above Two". after the building address. I remember the great times taking the bus down Bay Parkway to the end (before Korvettes was built) Just get off the bus and cast out your fishin pole. Does anyone remember Jahns on 86th and 21st Ave

Still go to visit nonna on west 10th where I grew up .. that neighborhood make me what I am today (good or bad) I wouldn't trade it for the world

My brother played in a band with Johnny Castellano
His brother Phil and me were roadies. Knew Mama and Poppa C real well

Bensonhurst is ALIVE AND WELL.
My grandparents have had there house in Bensonhurst / Gravesend for over 80 years. Now rent a portion of it out, though am in the nieghborhood atleast once a year. I think what has changed more than anything is the people who are writing comments. I and my Family who have Family home in the niehgborhood, can tell you first hand, It is alive and well. On our block, people out on the stoops in the summer, Family atmoshphere, Neigbors talking, Smell of Tomato sauce in the air during dinner time, Italian spoken in the niehgborhood, at stores, Salumeria's , Pizzerias, Church Mass. Our Church bells ring up at the corner at given hours. Some people Hang dry their clothes on the line. We open the Johnny Pump sometimes in the summer, etc etc. Yes, Less Roller Hockey and Street football in the the winter. Great memories playing. I think it's more so that people writing have changed. Why move out of Brooklyn ? Brooklyn is GREAT ! What I do miss are Disco's in the nighborhood, Walking down the Street with our big Boxes, with Disco 92 KTU pumping. All the Cady's , Lincolns (Two Tone) , in the nieghborhood. I also speak Italian, and I can tell you Bensonhurst Sta bene. E uno dei migliore quartiere di N.Y. , Love L and B , e Totonno's. Nothing like it anywhere ! Keep Staten Island. I'm staying in Bensonhurst and I LOVE it !

I lived on West 4th and Kings highway, i think i rode my bike or walked where ever i went. I hung out on Bay parkway and i think 68th on the corner where Mac Donalds was or is, coulnt tell you. Thats where they fimed Saturday nite Fever, which we all went and watched that movie about 100 times, we had a blast. Of course all the girls had a crush on John Travolta. What about 2001 oddysey, Yah my cousin Joanne used to sneak me in at 14, gee i grew up fast, but turned out to be a good woman, no regrets. i really miss those days. I also hung out at Ave s park, i dated my sweetheart Eddie Ricottone for 7 years, and unfortunately we never married which we should of, but we went our own ways, i will never forget him. We hung out at ave s park and played paddle ball until dark, those were the days u didnt have to worry as much as we do today about our kids, everyone knew each other and looked out for each other. We were always protected.And if u messed with us ud get your head handed to you.So now i am out of Ny living in GA, OMG yah long story, very pretty state, but i miss all the things i grew up with, like coney island, nelli blie, korrvettes, nathans Spamoni gardens, kings plaza, 86th street( the cruising), yes for guys, and so much more, they will be in my hearts forever.

born in '56 lived 86th St and Bay 14th and 86th St. 17th Ave. Hung out at Red's candy store across from club 1717 later with Bay 16 boys ended up on Bath Ave and Bay 17th

I was from W 8th between Aves. O and P. and during the late 60's and 70's hung out on Ave O or on Quentin Rd bewteen W 6th and 7th, behind the old Kings Highway movie theater.

What fun times! Yes, we were a little wild, and yes there were some fight, but we were respectable, unlike the kids today. Mostly, we liked to have fun.

The boys that I remember most were the W7th St Boys cuties - Robert Rubin (he was half Italian and Jewish), Anthony Biondoilo and Ricky Riccardi. They were pretty much the leaders of the group and melted all the girls hearts, including mine :). I remember kissing Robert at a party (even though he had a girlfriend named Lois at the time) and falling instantly in love!

Oh the good times!

Hey, did anyone here work or attended Coney Island day camp

SO WHAT GIVES HERE LAST POST WAS IN NOV, WHERE IS EVERYBODY,,,CHARLIE HERE BAYPARKWAY AND 85ST,,
COME ON GUYS START POSTING,,,

Fascinating! - My father was the owner of Chateua Gorme (ave T and W 12Th) - I had never seen it, nor ever knew where it was - found this site via google - amazing to hear people talk about it, and to finally find out where it was located - I learned it is now a jewish school.

Shore Haven! Shore Haven!

Wow! Like alot of you out there I found this site searching for something else. Glad I did though. Not sure if anyone out there is going to remember "The Bothers Luisi" that being myself and my older brother Steve who grew up in Shore Haven from 65 - 1989 just about when the neighborhood started changing. I have been living in FL for about 20 years now and am doing well. Would love to hear from any of those who would like to catch-up.

Until then...

Hope you are all doing well!!

Miss ya's!

Does anyone remember what the Manga Booth was really called? The old place on 86&13...My parents had some great memories there, and we were trying to look it up online. Thanks!

To Vinny S, I saw you went to Utrecht hs. Did you know Mike/Frank Grande, John/Joe Leondis, names like Katz,Gibilaro,Sinagra, all some of my favorite players when i first got to Utrecht. A ton of great memories, good and bad and sad. Most recently hearing about Joe "Puggy" Rollino, who died tragically last month. I remember meeting him at Reynolds gym on Utrecht ave and 69th. He was incredible! Great guy, knowledgeable and always upbeat. He used to always call all of us "Jocko". I hurt my back once and he adjusted me and i was fine. What a legend! That whole gym was something, Louie Lanese, George Ludwigsen and on occasion Tileo Intersimone. I loved it, every minute of it. I received a lifetime education in weight training, and it stayed with me throughout my football career and life today, almost 40 years ago.

MY IS PHIL PASCUCCI AND MY SIDE KICK WAS MIKE"THE MAYOR ALOTTA. WE WERE THE LUCKEST TWO GUY'S FROM BENSONHURST.SPANNING FROM 1968-1981 WE WERE PENTONES
(226-SCHOOL YARD)HOLY BOPPERS,AVE "M" BOY'S,JAMAR BOWLING.(POOL HALL)AVE "O" FROM WEST 3RD-8TH.FRIENDS OF SETH PARK BOYS',20TH AVE 62ND ST.BAY PARKWAY MCDONALDS TO 63RD ST. ATTEND FDR HIGH SCHOOL"HIGHLY ACTIVE 73 RIOTS"FROM 1967-73.
IN ALL WE MUST OF HAD 100'S OF FRIENDS.A LOT OF PEOPLE SADLY ARE GONE.IF YOU MADE IT E-MAIL AT
PHILIP2@PTD.NET.

Thanks for the memories! Spent several hrs today reading all the posts. I'll pick up where 2009 left off...born and raised in Bensonhurst - Bath Beach section in the apartment building on corner of Cropsey and 17th Ave. almost 67 years ago. But time does not change anything because it's all in the sweet memories. Would love to hear from any who lived in the 48 family apartment building (1662 Cropsey) from 1943 to 1961, or who went to PS 163 (1949-1958), Bay Ridge HS (1958-1961 and the only all girl high school in the city at that time). Anyone know where Billy Tucco is? He was a natural ball room dancer and I got a chance to dance with him on the stage in the auditorium at 163 - I was in the arms of a pro. Sorry to hear that 163 schoolyard is gone...in 7th and 8th grade on Friday spring afternoons we had to pick which "farm" tool we wanted and then spend that time in "the garden," digging, planting vegetables and finally harvesting them. If you bought your lunch from "the kitchen," you got to eat the fruits of your labor! Left Brooklyn, 1961, for college (I was one of the lucky ones). Never returned except for holidays to visit my parents and to get married to an upstater. St Finbar's used to be my parish but when it came time to marry, priest said the parish lines had been redrawn and I had to marry in another church near Cropsey and 13th Ave(?)whose name I don't remember. I was told that was my new parish...but I could get married in St Finbar if I paid $50...too much back then. And yes, I do remember St Finbar's Fr Donegan. He has to be deceased by now...he was an old man back in the late 50's. Would enjoy hearing from anyone who remembers St Finbar's yearly summer school- religion classes sometimes under the trees but mainly in the extra building in the courtyard, then lunch provided by the city Board of Ed., arts and crafts in the afternoon or practice for the end of the summer show. What a wonderful and happy time! Anyone recall "Eddie" who played the piano for our rehearsals? Anyone remember Jerry Mazzarella from Bay 14th St (around the corner from the apt bldg)? If you are out there Jerry would enjoy hearing from you. Just talked to a fellow member/lawyer from the Italian American club here in Tucson and guess where he grew up? He's 80 now and he and I went back in time like it was yesterday.

Well, "enjoyed this trip back home." You can take the girl out of Bensonhurst, but...(you know the rest). Would enjoy hearing from old friends.

I went to visit Bensonhurst in 2000 and ran into two nice Sicilian old timers. We spoke Italian as my wife is 100% Italian and my grandparents are pugliese. I was curious to see how it was as it was deemed the authentic Little Italy of NY. So I did see some oriental and a few Italians and some Italian shops on 18th Ave. The houses looked really nice and the neighborhood around 62-65th st. seemed clean. These two siciliani were explaining to us about the Santa Rosalia church and feast. Nice guys. I think one had lived in Switzerland many years before emigrating to Brooklyn. Grazie

I grew up on 76th and 21st ave. Stickball, ringalevo, stoop ball, hit the quater, hockey, there wasn't anything we didn't play in the middle of the street. Mr. Softee, Frezer Fresh, Good Humor, Does anyone remember Fat Larry? Reed Kozlin?

i grew up in Bensonhurst from 1969- 1990. everything those guys wrote is true. great memories. me and my friends would set up lawn chairs on 86th street on a fri and sat night watching.

I am from 85th st and 20th ave, i see a lot of people are on here and i hear a lot of old friends names..I moved away from there in the 80's but not far away and still have friends there..That time was the best, wish i could go back just for a little while..I would like to hear from someone that might remember me..email address kennynyc40@aol.com

Anybody remember the corner of 20th ave and Bay Ridge or 74th.. St.Dominicks back in the Mid to late 70,s Danny Knocker, Donato, The Libby Brothers, Milo, Richie, Peter, Georgie Zap, The Cow Barn, Ally-boy, Sally Red Cacasse and the rest of the 20th ave crew. Those were the days. Carvel pay phone at 18th and 64th st.,Hy-Tulip on 86th, buying mixed Disco tunes from the car wash on 86st, Record shop on 18th to buy a horn and bow for the rear view mirror, Also 13th ave Crispi's pizza joint.New Utrecht H.S riots, Mr.Spesire the knife shapening truck, or Mr Buttons from Bay16th st., Cropsy ave Boy's. Bath ave crew, Everybody's over here retired in the Staten Island dumping ground..... Anybody remember their 1977-79 Cadillac bumpers disappearing back in the day. I sure the hell miss that place. I mourn every single time I drive through there.

Pete- the dry cleaners between w 8th and 9th on ave O was Rand's dry cleaners. I lived on west 9th between quentin and P from 1962-1971, then 71st between bay parkway and 21st till 74 when i got married and moved to NJ. The neighborhood isn't the same. But great memories.

Several people have mentioned Spinners supermarket on 86th St., where Miraglia Funeral Chapel is today. If I remember correctly, Spinners burned down in a huge fire around 1968-69. I was a small child at the time and the sight of the charred remains scared the hell out of me; I would make my mother cross the street to avoid it.

Also remember that there was a Packers supermarket in the plaza on 86th between 15th and 16th Avenues, next to the car dealership, and a Pantry Pride over on 18th Ave., in the same parking lot where Thrift Town was, near the park.

I grew up in Bensonhurst in the early 70 went to PS 128 on 21st Ave then cavalero on cropsey.I lived on 79st and Bay Pkyw.I worked at at 20th ave Gym owned by Freddie Galapolli I went into the Army in 1975 I am 53 years old now.Does anybody recall my name.I spend alot of time on Bath ave and 31st.My girlfriend was named zina anybody out there remember me?

RC i remember petey pecs, does anyone know where he is

i grew up on 13th avenue and live there still. went to 201 and then New Utrecht HS. does anyone remember mom's luncheonette across from new utrecht or the mangia booth on 86th street?thinking back i remember joyce emmons, paulie mandile, gerald caruana and more. anyone else remember these people?

This is frigin' fantastic!! I know so many people on here. A lot know me. Who could forget #44 from utrect? Joe G? Nah Joe R! You were great! My head still hurts from tackling you lol.Lembo was great too Mike P. + a lot of others. What a game in 73 I went to Lafayette's reunion a few years back none of my buddies showed felt like an ass. Hey Harry's kid we do have Christmas parties usually at the Hilton in SI.Johnny Mazonne is the MC has summer parties too sometimes. Hey Frank M that guy on the bike who used to spit on himself is a dear friend of mine I grew up with his brother Joe Kos Too bad he creeped you out he couldn't help it You got no excuse! I was so happy to find this site til I read that. I'm still happy It's great to hear about the old neighborhood We still got the memories Thanks! Greg A

To Donna, I remember Farace, Scarpaci, Gentile and Gerald Caruana, Linda Pignataro, Diane DeMarco and Carol Fraulo. I grew up there and went to 201 and the New Utrecht, left HS 1968. I remember Paul's candy store next to the 19th hole and it's kind of funny, been thinking about those years latly. Still here and will die here. Respond if you remember me, the redhead!

been reading all the comments on this site for years. lived in marlboro projects from 1973-1988 still have family there.watch the neighborhood change so much its sad all the memories...

anyone remember GOLD STAR RAVIOLI on 11th Ave? Still there? what happened? Faiccos's still there?

Ok, I guess it's my turn to reminisce. I lived on BayParkway btwn Bath and Benson from 1955 until 1974 when I moved to Seagate. PS 101 where I played punchball from 56-59. If you could hit the ball over the "wall"(handball court) you were considered good. If you could hit it over the wall and into the fenced "garden" you were considered great. I remember a guy named "Whitey" young kid with white hair...who could hit it into the garden anytime he chose. There were a few other great players, but there was one guy who everyone knew, but would never play...hardly never. His name was Jasper. I couldnt believe my eyes when he punched the ball which traveled the entired width of the school playard and landed in the gutter on the other side of the block!! WOW.
Jasper was like a legend since after he did that, he wouldnt play for another four months.
Then, JHS 128 was next. I dont have many memories of that. I only remember that a few of the guys I knew died too young. Robert West I think committed suicide. I liked him. He took me to see the Perry Como show in Manhattan. Kenneth Miller shot himself(by accident I think) during the Vietnam War, ( I think).
Afterwards was Lafayette HS. All I remember was that any chance I had I was singing doo wop in the bathrooms, outside the school and in the open door fronts of the stores on 86th St btwn Bay Parkway and 21st Ave. I sang in the Lafayette talent show with Pat Perri, Leone, Mike and Bruce Johnson. What a rush that was. I thought I had a future until I heard a group called the Four Evers sing. They were the best harmony group I ever heard. Their hit was Be My Girl and If I Were a Magician was on the flip side. As great as they were, they never made it big. I decided I had no shot.
I was a handball player. I played in Coney Island by the boardwalk regularly and also in Cropsey Park. My best friend was Joel Hessel who was called "the Hess". HE was the most talented player I ever saw play and while he played you, he would taunt you and laugh continuously. If you played handball in those days, you knew him. Joey Durso who became the champ years later learned from the HEss.
I use to play a lot of stickball/basketball. Jerry Eagle was one of the most talented players around. HE just ran faster, jumped higher and played smarter than everyone else.
The tough guys from that time were all over, but the few that I remember the most were Jimmy Emma and his gang. If you remember Jimmy, you had to remember him BW and AW. (before working out and after working out) He was a small guy, but eventually became super muscular. There was another super tough guy called Dollanne who hung on KingsHwy. The legend goes that he and Jimmy faced off and Jimmy took a baseball bat and hit Dollanne over the head. The bat broke and Dollanne smiled. I wasnt there, so the rest is hearsay....which I would rather not comment on.
I worked at the Shorehaven Luncheonette and also at Harry and Mortys which was the soda joint next to a Jewish deli under the el on 86th st off of Bay Parkway. I played pool upstairs, I think that was Albas. There was also another poolhall next to Chevys Mens shop which was in basement, also on 86th St. off of 21st Ave.
I remember Woolworths where I would buy 25cents worth of candy during my lunch breaks from JHS 128 which later became Jahns. Of course everyone hung out at Famous Cafeteria. I was there when Kennedy was assasinated having my coffee and Marlboro. That brings back the memory of kids at Lafayette discussing what they were going to do during the Cuban missle crisis, thinking that the world was about to end. It didnt, but our innocence surely did end.
Yes, the pizza stores were the best and going to Coney Island to have a Nathans hotdog was special.
Taking the B train into the city was also cool.
My favorite moments were when all the guys who could harmonize would meet on 86th St and sing Gloria, In the STill of the Night; Zing went the strings/Dear when you smile at me; etc., and everyone would enjoy the free entertainment. I remember also doing the same on Tuesday nights on the Boardwalk in Brighton Beach off of Coney Island Ave. (shatzkins knish?)
If you lived in the area, I probably made you an egg cream at least once. I never spit in a drink once, even if I didnt like you, but Harry did wash his false teeth in the cleaning water..LOL.
I worked at Korvettes in the pet dept. I had a friend Paulie Weisbard who always had a crazy idea. He once had an idea of how he was going to build a rocket ship to the moon. He was dead serious. He once told Arnold Frankel about this and Arnie agreed to build it with him. One day as we were approaching 86th st, (we must have been around 13 or so) Arnie told Paulie he changed his mind about building the ship and Paulie turned around and hauled off on Arnie punching him in the face and then walking off. I walked Arnie back to his home where he iced his face.
A few months later, Arnie and I were having a catch in the big circle in Cropsey Park. The ball escaped Arnie and dribbled into the basketball court area. Phil Cantor picked up the ball and Arnie kept screaming for him to throw the ball back. Phil threw it way over his head. Arnie got upset and told Phil a thing or two....and u guessed it...Phil approached Arnie and punched him in the face.
I saw my first porno at the Jewel theater on Kings Hwy. I remember the guy in the audience screaming out.."thats a speecy spicey meataball"....What a laugh.
Of course there were the Chinese restaurants of whose names I forgot that were on 86th. I remember the one that allowed u to look out the window and see the trains go by. The first time I went to have Chinese food, my dad got me some water to drink and I started to fuss and cry that I wouldnt drink it because it was Chinese water!!
Hey...if u remember.....there was some funny kind of smell.....but, I guess that was the white table cloths that were just washed....lol...
If u went to PS 101, do u remember Miss Mesmer?
She was mean and she made you use a special notebook to write in called the Mesmer book. She still hit u with a ruler.
In JHS 128, our science teacher was Mr. French. Franky Carretta was a real class clown. When he was asked who discovered the atom...he yelled out in his real Italian voice..." Pope Pippy Pius da Toid".....I still remember the class rolling on the floor.
Back in PS 101, there was my third grade teacher Ms. Talkin or Talken. It was my first day in class transferring from a school I went to when I lived on Bay 8th st. She introduced me to the class and asked me the name of my former teacher. I told her it was Mrs. Di Martini. Ms. Talken started laughing crazily and said..Class....his teacher was a drink!!!
In those days, there were transom windows at the side of the room which would be open. So, if you were bad and tossed out of the room, you would be standing in the hallway outside the room and then start throwing things thru the windows and the kids inside would throw them back out. Ms. Talken would never see this or say one word. But, if you were super quiet and then spoke one soft word, she would toss u out of the room. She was off her gord!!
One day she punished me by having me stand in the corner. My pants were ripped by my butt and she said...Class...everyone look..Richards pants are ripped!!!!!...I remember a few of my other PS 101 teachers now: Ms Leventhal: Ms. Klages: Ms. Larkin.
IN JHS 128 I remember, Ms. D'Aleva; Mr. Littman; Ms Brady or OBrady, was one tough lady. One day I had to enter her class to deliver her a message and she screamed at me in front of her entire class. The very next day, I had to deliver another msg and this time she told the class what a well respected young man I was!!! Nutz! Also, Ms. O'Rourke...another scary lady....and of course, Mrs. Long my 7th grade teacher...but, she was very very short.
IN Lafayette, Mr. Nazer was the music and glee club teacher. I told him I wanted to quit and he wouldnt let me. I told him day after day I wanted to quit but he wouldnt let me. Then, when we were singing the Star Spangled Banner in harmony, I would end it like a doo wop song and he threatened me if I did that again he would throw me off the glee club. Problem solved!!! LOL...
I graduated Lafayette in 64, went to Kingsboro CC and then Bklyn college. I have few memories of that. I do remember playing skully on the streets with the bottle cap; chinese handball; and setting thread. We had a group of guys who would get off on using sewing thread and set up "traps" like spider webs and then laugh as unsuspecting folks would hit the trap and begin trying to get the "stuff" off of them. It was harmless and funny. But...one day...Paulie...the guy with the rocket ship idea decided to use monofiliment (fishing line). He set it up so that when Michael Heit came racing down the street full speed on his bike, the cord hit his neck. Mike stopped..the bike continued. That was a very scary moment. I dont know if he still has the scar, but more importantly, he lived.
I took karate lessons from Robert Golumb. One day while I was walking home with him and Neil Manganaro, Robert wanted to show Neil a karate move. It involved throwing a punch at Neils face.
Neil had just had plastic surgery/nose job and was concerned. Robert told him that there was nothing to worry about. You guessed it...I think there are still blood stains on Bay Parkway by Beth Shamlom Synagogue. Does anyone remember that man with the super large head who would walk with his head revolving back and forth?
It was nice thinking back to my youth..those were good times....simple times...as compared to today....Brooklyn was a special place.
Ahh..just remembered the names of the other guys who I sang in the talent show with....Paul Leone, Carmine D'Angelo and Bruce Johnson

well i went back down to 86st not the same at all i was heart broken everyone and everything i known is gone its not my home any more is changed so much it makes me sick i been upstate now 10 years to change my life to bettter it im 38 i grew up in bensonhurst from the day i was born till 29 i went down this year and people looked at me like i was out of place ha im glad i changed my ways .... it looks like china town on 86st wow i guesss thats just life but it will never change my memories of what it was once like to grow up in the hurst..hi tanya love ya

I bookmarked this page for the memories, i grew up in the 80's on 60th-61st streets and in my early teens i moved to bay parkway, between bath and cropsey. I have an older brother named Adrian. feel free to contact me.

last comment.... Fpraino@yahoo.com

Listen..Everyone who sold was able to put a little money in their pocket and live in a bigger home on SI, LI or NJ..but they always wonder where the neighbors are to talk about Yankees/Mets, where the neighborhood kids went that helped mom with the groceries. Oh, I forgot,there is no walking to the store in these neighborhoods, the further away from the stores, the "better" the neighborhood. Thats why everyone is so distant. There is no kick the can, our kids have the "WI", we dont need salugi, we can play steal the old mans pack on line. Why get fresh bread at the bakery when the supermarket can deliver it to your door. Reason we all felt the way we do is neighborhood, socialization and family/friends..People think the live better now but do they really? I grew up with nothing but friends and family in Brooklyn. Now I have more money than I ever thought I could make but when I wash my car, there is no one who cares to look at it, no friends on the corner to "take a ride with you" and air dry it. I feel I miss "something" every day. Its as if I sold my childhood for a pool and bigger taxes in the suburbs. There is no going back because what we all look for is not there - it's just a memory. .Sign me up when you hear of an Italian American subdivision with stores, homes, apartments, schools, parks,etc...Oh there is one - that WAS Brooklyn but we all wanted what is greener on the other side. Sometimes, we shouldnt wish so hard - as you might get what you have been asking for - that home with a pool and no one to play in it. Its funny, I would get up super early with a tribe of friends just to play basketball at the ONE park that had a net to shoot at, but we were still too late as we had to wait till all the older kids were done to get a chance to play. Now on my block there is 10 personal basketball nets and I never see anyone shoot or play a game. Our parks are desolate - but they do look beautiful. Ahh BROOKLYN...

well i been reading the stuff on this sight now for a bit it brings back good but also bad memmories all or most of the people i knew are dead or in jail bensonhurst has changed its not our home any more. its a new world now. i did 18 years in and out of jail i used drugs drank i robed . i cant get those years back..... it hurts me to see 86 the way it is now its our fault we let everyone take over they changed it it now china town..... i was raised on bay 32 the candle light bar my mother was doris the bar maid i was raised on those streets by tommy snake and the crew near otb i seen them this year i some times forget as i get old they get older. i never thought i would live this long the 62 pct said i wouldent live to see 21 ha im 38 started a family my son is 17 and the other is 3 months old. i changed my life. the hardest thing was to leave the hurst i grew up with zane the big movie star ha mikey marks anton saurez chris ruben tommy lead head r.i.p he got killed at 16 bruce mullen jose frankie john eve tony defeno i miss cropsy park crazy vinnie who sang on the cornor on 86st i remember the fun house freestyle music where i live now they never heard of it. i feel the years now i been threw hell but im still here i love my bensonhurst brothers and sisters there is never gonna be another bensonhurst in my life im proud to be born there i wouldent change none of the memories some time we must spreed our wings to see whats out there nothing stays the same forever

GREAT SITE. I WAS BORN AND STILL LIVE IN BROOKLYN (14TH AVE AND 80TH STREET). I WENT TO PS 204 THEN PS 201 JUNIOR HIGH AND NEW UTRECHT FROM 70 TO 72. I PLAYED FOOTBALL THERE WITH J.CLEMENTE, F.GRANDE, A.GENNARO, J.RODRIGUEZ AND M.SUMO WHO WERE ALL GREAT BALL PLAYERS AND GREAT FRIENDS. LOVED THE VICTORY PARTIES AND THE BIG GAME AGAINST LAFAYETTE EVERY THANKSGIVING DAY. MY SENIOR YEAR WE WON 26-14 AND I WENT HEAD TO HEAD WITH MIKE AMARI, THE GUY WAS STRONG AS AN OX!. JOE CASERTA PLAYED SAFETY FOR THEM AND HE AND I BECAME GOOD FRIENDS IN KINGSBORO. ALSO, THERE WAS A REAL TOUGH S.O.B NAMED GREG ALBI. ONE HELL OF A PLAYER AND A GOOD FRIEND I HAVEN'T SEEN IN A LONG TIME. I WORKED OUT IN REYNALDS GYM ON 69TH ST AND NEW UTRECHT AVE. EVERYBODY IN THERE WAS A FRIGGIN ANIMAL. THEY WOULD WARM-UP WITH 400 POUND BENCH PRESSES! FROM THERE I WENT TO BATH BEACH BODY BUILDING WHEN IT WAS ON 86TH ST NEAR 17TH AVE ACROSS THE STREET FROM THE LIBRARY. IT WAS OWNED BY JOHNNY BARBIERA AND ANIMALS WORKED OUT THERE TOO! I REMEMBER TILEO PUNCHING HOLES IN A 200 POUND HEAVY BAG. YOU HAD THE LOWE'S AND THE BENSON FOR MOVIES, HY TULIP FOR GOOD DELI AND JAIN'S FOR ICE CREAM ( THE KITCHEN SINK). I REMEMBER SNEAKING INTO THE WALKER THEATER ON 18TH AVE AND 72ND ST. TO WATCH THE FIRST FRAZIER - ALI FIGHT IN MARCH OF 1971. SOME OF THE GUYS DRIFTED AWAY, SOME PASSED AWAY (REST IN PEACE M.SUMO) AND SOME ARE STILL AROUND. WE HAD ALOT OF FUN AND KICKED ALOT OF ASS AND I WOULDN'T CHANGE A THING.

im 34 years old and hung out on kings highway in the mid 90's anyone one here hang out there then?
and im talking about the west side of kings highway from mcdonald ave till west 12 and hanging out in ave s park

I grew up on 59st and 19th ave went to st athanasius, graduated in 1967, played BASKETBALL , . those were the days hung out with patsy bartiromo, joey bubbles CHRISTERELLA , tommy patardi, played ball for st athanasius, many years then another league formed Parkland. my best friend was artie mattia, the knife man came to yr door the fruit man, walter the good humour man, etc , you had to be home every sunday at 2pm, for a good italian dinner if not your mommy be yelling out the WINDOW, CALLING MY NAME JOSEPH 2 OR 3 TIMES , THE WHOLE NEIGHBORHOOD WAS ITALIAN N JEWISH, BUT SUNDAY IT WAS THE ITALIAN DAY. THATS WHEN FAMILIES WERE FAMILIES EVERYBODY KNEW YR NAME YOU CALLED YR FRIENDS PARENTS BY THERE LAST NAME .THOSE WERE THE DAYS, WE WERE NEVER HOME ALWAYS PLAYING OUTSIDE WITH YR FRIENDS THOSE WERE THE DAYS JOEY VACCARINO BENSONHURST WAS THE BEST PLAY TO GROW UP

I lived at 109 Bay 8th Street around 1935 ... I am 80 years old .... live in SI but my heart has always been in Brooklyn. I remember the Esposito banana truck. It was burgundy colored with gold printing on the sides ... my father lost this hope in the depression... then we rented all over Brooklyn ... 1234 69th Street, 82nd St. & 12th Avenue, Avenut T and E. 53rd Street ... and many more. Does anyone know Harry Foti, our next door neighbor?

I was born & raised in Boro Park/Bensonhurst Brooklyn. I grew up in the 60's,70's & grew up some more in the 80's. I remember having friends from all walks of life. I hung around with people from many different neighborhoods. I enjoyed the diversity. I come from an Italian family. I remember the fantastic markets & restaurants in the area. The pizzaria's were in such competition, but everyone would go to the one they like the best. Every pizzaria had their own following. My favorite was Lento's for their severly thin Napolitan pizza & DaVinci's on 18th av & 65th street for their Sicilian square slices.
At one point back in 1988, my son was 12 years old and I was 31. I realized my son was becomming a little "Gangsta". He was getting into fights and being stalked by little "mafia' wannaBee's. It was at that point my Husband and I decided to move as far away from there as we could. So, we moved to rural Washington State. I really have no regrets. I wouldn't have wanted my Grandchildren to grow up in that element. The neighborhoods have changed drastically. My mother sold her 4 family house on 65th & 11th for $400,000 to a Korean family back in 1999. Unfortunatly all the older Italian Patriarchs and Matriarches have died off and their children have already moved to staten Island and Long Island. The children will not live in those houses because they already have their own; so they sell them to the highest bidder. This is why it had given way to a new set of immigrants. People may want some of the creature comforts from their youth and pasts; like restaurants, bakeries, butchers, & deli's, but they really don't want to live in the past. I am soooo happy here, I wouldn't have it any other way. I remember always wanting to leave NYC and live in a rural setting on the west coast. My dreams have been answered & come true. The streets of Bensohurst have been played and are decrepet and delapidated....I don't miss that at all...not even one Iota. I recently googled an arial shot of a freinds house on 64th btw 16th & 17th...all I could really notice is all the spots on the sidewalks covered with trampled over chewing gum....very unsightly and filthy. I have no regrets, but I do miss Spumoni Gardens & Hy Tulip Kosher deli. I just learned how to do that stuff myself...that includes cannoli's!

Vinny's Record hut on 86th street....odd lot....mayflowers....Manellis on 17th ave and 86th...

Hi PatJohn,
Wow..good hearing from you, your parents still on Bay 41st? can't get my parents to leave Bay 40th. Not on facebook (the kids are), no time... work, 4 kids(1 step)...stay well Cat

Carmine from Bay 14th and Benson.. I remember u bro, you lived on benson ave across from Steves Pizza ( the original Steves ) Pete and Sal used to work there. Its Dougie from 16th and Benson used to live next door to Louie Defillippo. Wild times back then roof climbing, scully, king of the mountain on the roofs of cars, throwin chinese stars and darts at eachother in 163 school yard.. Or swinging from one side of the 163 fence with the flag pole. climbin on the roof in the 163 school yard above the stairs everyone hung out on. while kenny sold dime bags by the dumpster with his doberman rico. heres the list of names from those days

Joey and lisa andolino, Joey and charlie calco, sal and steven depalma, christine and joey barillo, georgie adamo, tommy reynolds, patty crook, jimmy and lisa calandra, frabritzio, polio, john paul, PePe, nicky antico, lisa cullio, lisa fap, debbie rae, christine confensori, donna, vicki stark, little pecora sister, maria manzo, johny sparacio, agusto zingaro, louie defilippo, robert lombardi, peter, mikey abate, Me, Nicky, Memo, john ambrosino, chris carrozza, joey quatrochi, josie bonavita, annette livoti, elizabeth, scalfani brothers, mike lewis,

wow what a trip down memory lane.

Damnn really got me goin now.... I remember crazy albie who screamed like a fire truck spinning his flash light riding his bike... I remember crazy vinny with down syndrome playin his guitar.. Who remembers Ralph the bus driver on the B-64 run.. Used to pick us up at dyker and bring us back to bath ave express style everyone smoking on the bus nobody had to pay a cent :)

i love this site brings back a lot of memories but sometimes something happens to this site it disappears why is that happening it is to bad this going on this is a great site BENSONHURST the best neighborhood in the world grew up on bay 13 between bath and benson good friend to the late joey digraizia

I HUNG OUT AT THE MARLBORO PROJECTS EARLY SIXTIES
GUYS WHO WERE THERE AT THAT TIME JOE MALFITANO AKA SLOPPY JOE..HAROLD TOFFEL;BOBBY BEYER;ARNIE
WEINSTEIN;SAL ASTUTO;ANTHONY SCIARRA;BOBBY HOCHMAN
JOE;HAROLD,BOBBY,TOFF&I WERE THE BEST STICKBALL
PLAYERS FROM THE PROJECTS...IF ANYBODY KNOWS WHERE
JOE MALFITANO IS PLEASE HAVE HIM G MAIL ME..THE
NAME OF THE PIZZA PLACE ON THE CORNER OF SPUMONI
GARDENS WAS "LOUIES"USED TO GET BEER AND DIDN'T
GET CARDED! ANYBODY REMEMBER???

Missing the old times I went to PS 48 on 60th and 18th back in 1965,66,67 and 68 see if i remeber my teachers
Testagrossi, Rinaldi,Sergio and Salomon.
I remember Testagrossi getting stood up at altar in 65 and a classmate an italian kid Gabriel , Roy a good friend who died in 67 from getting hit by car while playing hide and seek.Afriend in third grade Gregory who lived on 58th street My cousin lived on 64th street between 17th and 18th alot of good times on that block, playing stick ball, box ball, stoop ball, the Walker, Silverods, donut shop and candy store by N train on 18th. ah the old days how innocent and fun

My dad had a store (woodworking) on Ave O across from La Plina Restaurant and bakery and Tonys candy store. remember all the guys hanging out. we would walk in buy 3 pretzels for 5cents and rob a spaldeen. Bazooka Joe 2 for nickel and he had great italian ice.

Hey Greg how are ya? Lots of folks on facebook now been making contact there. Bay 14th & 86th St. 17th Ave & 86th St. Bay 16th & Benson. Bath Ave. & Bay 16th Satch, Greek, Mkey Animal, Spic/ Mad Puerto Rican, Mueller,Blasco, Dischiavi, Minnie, Kos, Albi, Vadoo, PDQ/Peruta, johnny Black, Jimmy Neck, Bernie, Raffa, Sal the Wop, Ralphie,Gary Peeshee, Oliver's Bar, Social club on Bath & Bay16th. Many more havecome and gone care to add any?

Old Dyker Park boy here from the 70's Me, Roger, Catman, Goog, Ritchie chicken man and Johnny and Joey(rip) and we cant gorget Johnny Dee We are all still friends after all these years

MY IS PHIL PASCUCCI AND MY SIDE KICK WAS MIKE"THE MAYOR ALOTTA. WE WERE THE LUCKEST TWO GUY'S FROM BENSONHURST.SPANNING FROM 1968-1981 WE WERE PENTONES
(226-SCHOOL YARD)HOLY BOPPERS,AVE "M" BOY'S,JAMAR BOWLING.(POOL HALL)AVE "O" FROM WEST 3RD-8TH.FRIENDS OF SETH PARK BOYS',20TH AVE 62ND ST.BAY PARKWAY MCDONALDS TO 63RD ST. ATTEND FDR HIGH SCHOOL"HIGHLY ACTIVE 73 RIOTS"FROM 1967-73.
IN ALL WE MUST OF HAD 100'S OF FRIENDS.A LOT OF PEOPLE SADLY ARE GONE.IF YOU MADE IT E-MAIL AT
PHILIP pascucci did your work at Korvettes?

I grew up in Bensonhurst in the 90's when the crackgame took off!! the neighborhood was going to the dumps but the same guys that once protected the neighborhood were the same guys that started profiting off the drug trade. I remember hanging in Cropsey park just drinking the night away and smoking pot in shore haven basements. I remember, Willy, Zane, Vinny, Dom Hood,Warren,Peanut, Twiggy, Milton, Khal, Trips, ANG, BOO, Sest, Jazz, Chaz, Mark Rice, Howie, Brian, Steve,Joe V, Eggbert, B.O.M., Jose, Frankie Maldonado, and the rest of the crooks and hustlers from that era.

Anyone remember the name of the candy store across the street from PS 200, on Bath and Bay 23 St? I remember when it was closed for a day or two because the owner's father died in the 70s. I also remember the Father and Son deli where you could tell the guy "give me a 15 cent slice of watermelon" (or however much money you had) and he'd slice it fresh. I don't suppose anyone remembers Mrs. Wiegand, my first grade teacher in 1972, or Mrs. Turrell, my 2nd grade teacher.

Anyone remeber Ritchie Mosca or Chis Ponzo from Bay 22nd street?? What about Vinny's Record hut?

ps 163, dyker, lafayette...bath ave up in here

@ Bill who posted June 11 2010 2:29am

Hey bud, I also grew up in the Marlboro Projects, I was there from 72ish till around 90 when I moved lol well to another Country I now live in Australia. I too still have family there and some friends I grew up with..I seriously miss Bensonhurst, well you know Brooklyn the projects all of it..I had a great time growing up there, I spent heaps of time playing at John Dewey's Campus as a kid with my friends, eventually ended up graduating from there, I went to PS 248 then Seth Low. Dude remember the Chinese Gardens, those little parks in between them and all the kids that used to be out till the wee hours of the morning lol L&B's F**k I practically lived there back in the days lol..KeyFood..s**t I've no idea if that's even still there, but yeah I've great memories of that time and place..playing Touch Football and mad Baseball games with all the up an comings in the neighborhood..Sure there were some bad things that happened but s**t where doesn't that happen LOL I left to come here playing music and stayed but I will always be from Brooklyn!!! Thanks for your memories folks, it was good reading them.

IF YOU DIDNT GROW UP ON 15TH AVE AND 72ND STREET AND HUNG OUT IN PS112 SCHOOLYARD YOU MISSED THE TIME OF YOUR LIFE...THIS IS WHERE ALL THE DIFFERENT TOUGH GUYS FROM EVERY HANGOUT CAME TO SEE...WE ALL STAYED IN THE SCHOOLYARD....EVERYDAY..AND NIGHT....TILLIO...SICCHIO..MICCHIO...PETEY PECS..ARTIE GORT...JERRY WIPEOUT...AND THE LIST GOES ON AND ON...STICKBALL ON A BOUNCH...SOCCER HOCKEY...THE HOODLUM PRIEST...3 ON 3 BASKETBALL...ALL THE GREAT MEMORIES WITH THE GUYS....FRANKIE THE YANKEE...JERRY GAS..TWEETY...NICKY CRUPI...RALPHIE RAT..BILLY POT...STEWART...CEASEAR....JAMSEY...LOUIE ACE...STEVE VUONO..ANTONELLI...FAT CHARLIE...NEILLY BEESH...AHH..GOING TO WILDWOOD...HEARING THE KNICKS WIN GAME 7....GOING TO MET GAMES WITH THE BORDENS MILK COUPONS...GROWING UP TRYING TO AVOID A HAIRCUT FROM MICCIO....HIDING WHEN THE BUSES CAME AT NIGHT FOR THE ITALIAN AMERICAN RALLYS IN NEW YORK...IF U WENT ..YOU WERE GETTING A HAIRCUT FOR SURE....BY THE WAY ..DOES ANYONE HERE KNOW WHERE ARLENE CARANANTE FROM 15TH AVE AND BENSON IS NOW A DAYS..WOULD LOVE TO HEAR FROM HER....E-MAIL ME AT JETS862002@YAHOO.COM WE HAD A THING GOING ON YRS AND YRS AGO...LOL...HOW BOUT OUR HOCKEY TEAM AT 53RD STREET PARK....FIRST THE NATIONALS...THEN THE ITALIAN AMERICANS.......19- 0 UNDEAFEATED CHAMPS WOW THAT SEEMS SO UNREAL NOW....ANYWAY...ON WITH THE 4TH OF JULY FIREWORK SHOW BOYS.....TWEETY GET THE MATS.....

THIS IS THE GASMAN....15TH AVE ROCKED.....AND ALWAYS REMEMBER ....WE PUT ON THE GREATEST FIREWORKS SHOWS FOR TWENTY FIVE YRS.....THAT DAMM GUILIANI...LOL...

Hi - I love this site - especially I remember the names of people, teachers places etc. I went to a Lafayette reunion in Florida, where I live now and saw Ace Adler. I graduated in 1969 and there was only one person beside myself there. I lived in Harway Terrace and went to PS 212,Mark Twain, and Lafayette. Alan Feinberg was a friend of mine who died in WTC on 9-11. I remember hanging out with Eddie Katz and Pete Bonnadonna and Johnny Slush. His dad owned the Amoco on Cropsey and Bay 49th. I played in the PAL little league on Ave X, across from the Marlboro projects, for Williamsburg Savings Bank. Sal Alfano pitched for LaBella Funeral Home. We used to get ice cold hunks of watermelon from Phil Peppers on Cropsey ave, and great slices of Sicilian Pizza from the Bakery on Stillwell. I could go on and on
Jimmy Rosen

HEY JIMMY
RE :grew up on the Bensonhurst/Boro Park border 1962-1977. Did anyone go to Holy Ghost? I was in the Class of '76. I'm trying to find a guy named Dean. He used to live on 48th St, went to PS 192, Montauk, and FDR; he'd be 44 yrs old now.
Posted by: Jimmy at August 30, 2006 9:16 AM

my name is Dean & i'm went to holy ghost till 7th grade then went to montauk & FDR. but i'm the Dean who loved on 49th street (the dead end). i did however go to Montauk with lil dean from 48th street, his last name escapes me, but i was very tall, he was very short, but i'm not sure he ever went to Holy Ghost, which is no biggie,, just wondering if you mean him or me is who your looking for. if it's him i have no idea whatever happened to him.

i wanted to know if anyone had remembered how billy bright had died, i remember him from the neighborhood and just was wondering?