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

To Will Bremmer:
The horse stables at Forest Park still operate.
Dixie Dew Stables, 88-11 70th Rd, Forest Hills, NY 11375, 718-263-3500. Lynn's Riding School, 88-03 70th Rd, Forest Hills, NY 11375, 718-261-7679.
Enjoy the ride!
Added: September 2, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Gail Dawson
From: Richmond Hill
E-mail:

We are all very passionate about our home, Richmond Hill. Past, present, and future!
Added: September 2, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Mike Romano
From: USA
E-mail:

Paul La Vecchia,
I'm from a different branch of the Romano family tree, but like you, know just about every corner of Richmond Hill, and still have very fond memories of the place.
This website is a great place to connect with people like yourself, who share those memories, and treasure the past, and "tell it like it is"!... so, from one hyphenated-American to another, "Saluti, e buona fortuna"!
Added: September 2, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Shannon Cameron
From: Kennesaw, Georgia
E-mail: smc5924@students.kennesaw.edu

I am working on a research project that centers around Joan Newton Cuneo.
I believe that she was a resident of Richmond Hill at some point in her life but have not been able to narrow anything concise down. I am hoping that I can garner some assistance.
Added: September 1, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
mary johnson
From: Long Branch NJ
E-mail: mjohnson@pershing.com

Would anyone know the Feluren family?
I think they lived in Richmond Hill a long time ago around 110th St? Sam Feluren, Esther Feluren and their children, Ann Feluren, and Leo Feluren. Thank you
Added: September 1, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Dennis Doyle
From: Richmond Hill, NY
E-mail: webmaster@richmondhillhistory.org
To Peter Pennington:
Yes, Richmond Hill indeed had a street named Beech Street which is now 120 St.
Beech Street (circa 1911) would be located today on 120th Street between Jamaica Avenue and 84th Avenue in Richmond Hill, NY. The name Birch Street would be for 120th Street south of Jamaica Avenue.
Added: August 31, 2010

Submitted by Comments:
Dennis Doyle
From: Richmond Hill, NY
E-mail: webmaster@richmondhillhistory.org
Hi Andy Shea:
Great to read your recent comments. Please say hi to Kevin McLernon for me (he may not remember me though). If my memory is correct, we used to work together as busboys at the Hofbrau.
Also, I do not know why I remember this but our beloved dear friend Louis Pante used to tease Kevin McLernon with the name "Salty Parker" and rub his cheeks if I recall. When I asked Louie what is that all about, he would not give me specifics but just said it had something to do with what happened in class or school at HCJ.
I hope by now, what ever it meant, that if you mention this to Kevin, I truly hope it only puts a huge smile across those "salty" cheeks.
Added: August 31, 2010

Submitted by Comments:
Ann Downs
From: Louisa Va
E-mail: cilldara08@yahoo.com

I was born on 102 St. my parents are both deceased and I don't know what ave...
anyway I am looking for Connie Mistretta, she had ran the family dry cleaning business on Atlantic Ave. and I think about 117th St... there was a church around the corner...
does the name Mistretta ring a bell with anyone? I loved Richmond Hill
Added: August 31, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
andrew shea
From: Hartsdale NY
E-mail: sheamerc90@aol.com

Hello fellow RH folk.
I haven't posted in awhile but was to curious to see who was going to the HCJ reunion. I keep in contact with Kevin McLernon '67 and he will be attending with his sisters Patty, Nancy, and Mary.
I was happy to see the post from Rick Ohle. Rick you lived next door to the shea's on 106th street. We used to go to Belle Harbor with you and your family along with your mom Mary's brother and sister... a good Irish name that escapes me. I think one of them was in the clergy. Do you remember when your 3rd floor went on fire! Big excitement on 106. I remember how beautiful your house was on 113th street . It does not surpise me that it was an original it was very grand.
Sorry to hear about your parents and sister. We lost our parents and my sister Kathleen (car crash 1993 at 37) she is sorely missed. My brother Jack, Mamroneck NY, was just ordained a Deacon, Michael is CPA in SC, Billy is a loan officer in Dallas and Mary Ellen lives near Peoria Ill. selling adverising space for local newspapers. I live in Hartsdale NY and am a school social worker with a private practice.
We had wonderful times growing up in RH... from all the fun on 106th street where everyone stayed on the block playing army, coco-monster, ring alevio, stick ball, kick the can, stoop ball, etc. To the days at Jackson Pond playing basketbal touch and tackle football... and later on drinking schaffer beer at the upper log.
I hope to see many of you (Billy Heaney, Rob Ranis) on this site at the HCJ reunion. Rick (who was once called Ricky) please pass my regards on to Bill, John, Steve, and Tom. Andrew Shea
Added: August 31, 2010


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

To Mike Romano:
Kudo's on your remarks, and Ms Emanuele's also. Mike are you related to the Romano's who use to live on 115 st. (95-38)? I lived there many moons ago.
To Peter Pennington:
Yes, some of the numbered streets in R.H. were previously named streets. One that comes to mind was 101st ave. (I believe it was Jerome ave.)
Someone on this site should be able to help you with name streets. Good Luck.
Added: August 31, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Mike Romano
From: USA
E-mail:

It seems my recent comments re: the "state of the neighborhood" touched a few raw nerves.
To those of you who took my comments as honest appraisal of the facts, no further explanation is needed. For those who have pointed to the ever changing ethnic makeup of "the New York neighborhood", it should be noted that some have brought with them contributions and advancements which have improved the quality of life for the community as a whole. They valued the opportunity to be Americans first, while still maintaining a more personal connection to their ethnic roots, rather than ignoring the customs and social behavior of those who welcomed them, and that includes in no small part learning the language.
And as to Dan Rainis' offer to tour the neighborhood and offer his services as bodyguard, I was born and raised in Richmond Hill, and lived there for better than the last 45 years, so I've seen the changes firsthand, and don't need you to "clear things up" for me.
I'll let your comments stand on their own merit, or lack therof...
Added: August 30, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Margaret Emanuele
From: richmond Hill
E-mail:

Hi, I so agree with Dan Rainis:
This is still a great area, beautiful homes, I love it here, I have great neighbors. My block is still beautiful, the only downfall is that where losing our beautiful old trees when we have a bad storm. its a community, and a very safe place to raise a family.
Added: August 30, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
John Celauro
From: Long Island
E-mail:

Saw someone mention the Good Humor Ice Cream truck. Ahh... what an adventure I had way back when...
In the old days, The Good Humor truck came around daily and one of the things the driver offered was a "Day in the Good Humor Truck" with him. You had to be good (or a good buyer) to get invited to sit in the truck and go on the driver's route with him for the day.
One day Joe the driver (or whatever his name was) picked me. Yes, me. I was so excited. I went with him all over the neighborhood and helped him in his daily routine.
I would ring the bell, hand out the Toasted Almonds, Eclairs (or what have you) ice cream bars to the customers as Joe stuck his frozen arm in the truck to retrieve them. He had two doors, a rear one and a side one. He never seemed to know where anything was because he would always open both doors to find the specific ice cream bar the kid wanted. (Bad inventory control I guess.)
Anyway, he would hand me the ice cream to give to the kid who was buying it. All the while the frozen vapor from the open door obsuring Joe's face, as he stuck his head into the cavity of the truck, sort of like a lion tamer sticking his head into the lion's mouth. I had to be 9 or 10 years old. It was so exciting.
Fast forward 50 years... first off, my mother would never allow me in any Good Humor ice cream truck with no seat belt, ringing any bells while sitting next to a frozen arm pervert driver. She would say "Sure, no wonder they call him the Good Humor Man, you're not going in any truck". Times change. Bet they got seat belts now.
Added: August 30, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
peter pennington
From: stansted england
E-mail: prpflendishstansted@yahoo.com

Could some kind person in richmod hill please help me?
I live in England but my grandmother's brother - James T Macarthur lived at 515 Beech St., Richmod Hill. There is an article in the archives of the NYT about a divorce in 1911 and which gives that address. He was a house building contractor and family legend says he was responsible for building a lot of Queens.
I cannot find Beech St on maps or google of Richmond Hill. Where was or is it and can anyone please help me to read up anymore about him.
He is buried in Greenwood and I do not know of any family in NYC. Thanks.
Added: August 30, 2010


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

Mr. Richmond Hill:
Nobody, expecially me ever said RH was a slum. People like you who put words in other peoples mouths is not very nice.
It's great you live there all these years, and every Hillite wished they (including me) could move back.
But do me a favor, don't call me or anyone else any names when you really don't know the person. Maybe you are one of the reasons people left. In the future refer to people on this site by their names. But please don't think you know the Hill any better than anyone else who's lived there during the good times.
P.S.: I lived on the "North Side" of The Hill. I've been everywhere. There's absolutely no area you could possibly take me I don't know. I know the beauty and the beast of RH.
As far as being afraid, never happen. As for being a hyphenated American, I'm proud.
Added: August 30, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
April Koster
From: Richmond Hill
E-mail:
While it can't be denied that Richmond Hill is not the same place we fondly remember, I have to agree with Dan's comments about having it trashed from afar.
I'm still here, but on the north side where there are still some nice sections along the borders of Forest Hills and our sister town of Kew Gardens. As I read the comments about how great Richmond Hill was years ago, I can't help but wonder, So why did you all leave?
Wouldn't it be fairly close to the way it used to be if the majority of the former residents stayed? I guess the grass really is always greener someplace else.
Added: August 30, 2010

Submitted by Comments:
Vince Glasser
From: Claremore, Ok
E-mail: vinceglasser@cox.net
Matt Wasilewski:
I remember you from hangin out with Pat Carmody. His grandmother lived next door to Steve Seyster. I remember you from the summers Pats cousin Tommy Neff came to stay. I remember days playing stickball from 8:00 in the morning until it was too dark to see the ball anymore. After someone would hit the ball up on a roof we'd put our money together and run around to Rupecks(that little deli on 95th & 124St) and get a new Pensy Pinky. I think they cost 25 cents.
We had quite a crowd. It was a great childhood.
Added: August 30, 2010

Submitted by Comments:
Robert Jones
From: va
E-mail: rev047@aol.com

was great growing up here...
lived here from '50 to '64... went to St. Teresa till '64... Remember uncle jacks toy store, st. Johns restaurant, mr. softee coming down the block everyday... lived on 125th st and 97th ave...
looking for some old friends from here... always enjoy thinking back on the good times.
Added: August 29, 2010


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

Due to the Miracle of goggle earth, and street level maps, anyone can virtually drive around Richmond Hill at anytime, from anywhere.
I did just that, looking for recognizable signs of the neighborhood I grew up in, wondering if any of the folks and families that I knew as a kid still lived there? Is it me, or limitations of the google camera, that makes the streets look much narrower than before?
I looked for the familiar front porches that were so welcoming to neighbors that now are all closed in! The business now are mostly protected by security gates, and where once Bakerys, Delicatessens and markets used to display their goods promenently in their windows, now there is very little of that to be seen! (I'm speaking primarily of Jamaica Avenue from Woodhaven to Van Wyck, all along Hillside and Lefferts - not much of the old neighborhood to be seen!)
But, realistically, this is saddly true of just about any place! Does anyone know of a place that is better now than 30-40-50 years ago? We could as New Yorkers look and see - a New Coney Island, and greatly improved districts in lower Manhattan, but for the most part its all gone downhill!
I have lived in south Georgia for 30 years now since retiring from the Air Force, and we have a lot of people moving here now out of Florida, saying how bad it is getting there!
My Uncle Ed moved down to New Port Ritchie when he was in his mid 70's from Floral Park, and after about a year he was ready to move back! Philisophically, I believe God wants us to look forward, and not backward, so I am happy with the good memories I hold in my heart and mind, of the families and friends in the community, all affectionately remembered and stored in my personal time-capsule...
Wishing somehow, just one more time, we could all just show up together, on any given Friday or Saturday, at Jahns ice cream parlor, after seeing a double feature movie at the RKO Keiths, or meet up and walk down Jamaica Avenue, (or Liberty Avenue) together after school.
Maybe with the guys gathering on the corner and try singing harmony, all sweet memories to cherish indeed! What we have is a gift! Treasure that! God Bless each one of you, where ever you are now, and look forward with great anticipation and excitment to the New neighborhood that The Lord has promised that we shall live in! One that will never run down or deteriorate, and our friends will never grow old or die!
Like good wine cheers and warms the heart, good memories do as well! So I raise my glass of memories in a toast of thanksgiving for the gift we have all been given "To the Hill that was, and to the Hill that will be!" Salute...!
Added: August 29, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Jim Delvers
From: Oregon
E-mail: JimDelvers@Comcast.net

"Mr. Softy" was the other ice cream truck.
Added: August 29, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Frank Sgambati
From: Whitestone, NY
E-mail:

I recently was told about this site and I skimmed thru it quickly for now, but soon I'll look at it more closely.
With that in mind, I'll say that what caught my attention was a comment that the neighborhood changed and not for the better. Years ago, many years ago, the streets and sidewalks were immaculate. Raked and broom swept was the rule rather than the exception. Now when it rains or the wind blows that is how the place gets cleaned up.
As a limo driver I occasionally pass thru the blocks I grew up on: Liberty Ave., Lefferts Blvd., and the surrounding blocks. What a difference between the ethnic make up from then to now and how the properties are generally maintained.
In years past on a summer night you could hear the juke box from the ice cream parlor. Now the sounds are more like tortured cats howling. Sad to say it, but I don't see this community ever regaining it's former place as a place to call home for a proud society as it once was. I come from the South side, 107 & 133 where there were stick ball games, roller hockey, ring-o-leaveo, skully, and anything else you could play on the streets.
Joe, the Bungalow Bar ice cream man hit my block twice a day, John from Good Humor did it once as did another vendor whose name I forget. A dime bought you a piece of heaven during those hot Summer days. My neighbor left a glass tumbler near his garden hose so the Sanitation crew could get a drink. Those days there were three guys to a truck which was the chain and bar conveyor type.
Anyone remember Duggans bread truck where the driver stood up while doing his house to house route? I remember my father would burn the fallen leaves at night to reduce the amount of trash to be picked up.
Being so close to the South Ozone border, I went to PS 121, and then to St. Teresa on 130 St. untill 1960, then on to John Adams HS on Rockaway Blvd. After that, the US Navy. more to come...
Added: August 29, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Mike Ryan
From: Mattituck, NY
E-mail:

To Mike Romano and others who agree,
I think if one is going to be TOTALLY honest, and not just applaud these comments, is that those of us who agree are more uncomfortable with the ethnic and racial diversity that is NOT western european than we are with the condition of the houses and front lawns.
Brooklyn has gone through a renaissance and many glorious brick and brownstone homes have been renovated to their former glory. In Richmond Hill, the homes except as you approach Park Lane South were simple smaller frame houses, many now approaching 100 years old. Many have been modified and enlarged to support the new Hillite's concept of extended family under one roof. We don't like to speak about it, but Irish immigrants found prejudice when moving to the mostly German Richmond Hill in the late 1800s, and Italians that followed in large waves from 1905-1920 encountered the same prejudice from the Irish and Germans who arrived before them.
Many neighborhoods in Queens are more unstable ethnically and racially because for the most part, Queens is a gateway borough to America. People come here, often prosper, and leave for other places. To degrade its current condition we would likely have to retreat and find that ethnicities that who arrived in Richmond Hill before us didn't care much for us either. The only difference is that for the most part, we were caucasian europeans, and the new Hillites are more diverse in their skin color and where they hail from.
So, yes Richmond Hill has changed a lot from when we were kids. The reality is that it's always been changing and there were times when our ancestors who represneted a newer ethnicity were not so welcome either by those more established here.
Added: August 29, 2010


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

This reply is for Vince Glasser.
I do remember you. You were one of the mini bike guys down on the end of 123 street.
How wierd that you remembered the ball gettin stuck in the car. I forgot all about that until you brought it up. That was funny how that happened. We laughed all day
Added: August 29, 2010


Dan Rainis
From: Richmond Hill (not a slum)
E-mail:

Mr Florida,
Having lived in Richmond Hill for 44 of my 47 years I am insulted by your ridiculous comments. Has the neighborhood changed, of course, what neighborhood hasn't. Is it a slum or unsafe, NO.
There are many fine people still living here who care for their homes and neighborhood. Some of us haven't fled like many of you have. Come visit again some time, I'll walk the neighborhood with you and show you how fine it still is, don't be scared I'll protect you.
I also don't chose to go through life as a hyphenated American.
Added: August 28, 2010


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

to jim burke my boat thief buddy and any one else that lived in the hill.
the diner on atlantic ave was and still is on 112 st. i lived on 112 st as a kid in the fiftys when they bought the diner there on a huge trailer.
does any one remember sheffield farms on atlantic and 130 st and reo moving co on 125 st and 101 ave?
Added: August 28, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Teresa laughrun
From: Ventura, Calif
E-mail: mstreloren@yahoo.com

Did a Rita Demayo go to this school?
Mother Jean and father Lenoard and sister Lenora. Graduated around 1957, '58, '59. She is a family member that I'm trying to locate. Thanks.
Added: August 28, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Richie Schmidt
From: Boynton Beach, FL
E-mail:

Suprising that the diner debate has had no mention of St. Johns on Liberty Ave.
Added: August 28, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Edi Beckler Goldberg
From: Palm Beach, Fl.
E-mail: lv2trvlny@aol.com

No one loved living in Richmond Hill more than I did.
Times were simple and safe. (I lived there from 1947 to 1970.) I could ride my bike from Van Wyck and Liberty to Crossbay Blvd., weaving in and out of streets and roads. Also from 111th Avenue to Jamaica Avenue, and many in between. Smokey Park was our place for recreation and socialization. The Lefferts and Casino Movie Theaters were our places of "culture".
The schools that I attended were some of New York's finest... P.S.55, P.S. 121, and R.H.H.S. '65 (The teachers I had inspired me to be a N.Y.C .teacher.)
One could walk all the way down to the A train station, and take it into Brooklyn, or ride to Rockaway Beach. The Red and Green Bus lines got you to your destination.
It was fun to be able to know the storekeepers on a first name basis. There were many different ethnic types back then too. Some people did not even speak English. However, there was a common ground among all of them: respecting each other's differences and property. Police and Firemen were revered.
The world is upside down and there are other values now. Richmond Hill is only one town which has fallen victim to the "new morality ". Do not pinpoint any one neighborhood in particular as being the best or worst. Of course those people who lived and loved in R.H. would like it to be the same as it was when we they growing up, myself included. (I was there for a reunion in 2005.) Nothing stays the same. That is why there may be hope for our beloved town.
Mike Romano... please contact one of us to let us know you are ok. Someone was asking for you and left me a message.
Added: August 28, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Robert Sheridan
From: TX
E-mail:

Any memories of the ice cream man, Angelo?
I believe at times he would even come into the school yard at HCJ at lunchtime and sell ice cream. Don't ask me why his name just came to mind!
Added: August 28, 2010


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

Will: Yes the bridal path is still there and the horses are still in service.
I believe the stables are in the same place. Visit: http://www.nycgovparks.org/facilities/horseback
Added: August 27, 2010


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

You're not really old unless you remember the barn with the milk wagon horses on Atlantic. My sisters gave them names.
Added: August 27, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Bob Winter
From: Huntington Beach, CA
E-mail:

Well it seems everyone had a great time at the reunion.
As for the diners on 111th st and Atlantic ave. You are right on about the best eggs, home fries and bacon, plus coffee and cheap, well at 2 in the morning after a long night of partying.
Added: August 27, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Robert Sheridan
From: Austin, TX
E-mail:

To Will Bremmer:
If I am not mistaken, the two stables were Dixie Dew and Parkside. I may be wrong but those are the names that come to mind. It was always a thrill to see the horses while running through the woods. Don't have a clue if they are still there.
Given liability issues in this day and age my guess is that they are no more.
Added: August 27, 2010


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

Will Bremmer:
Yes they still exist. At least "Dixie Doo" does. Maybe the name may have changed, but I saw the new wooden rails they put up in Forest Park. They dug out trails too. I use to ride with my friends back then, what fun it was.
Go to the soldier, walk up the hill and you can see the new paths they built. Unless they changed it since '05, it should be there.
Added: August 27, 2010


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

Mike Romano:
Nobody has more respect for the HILL than me. I am totally correct in my assessment. I spoken to quite few of my friends who grew up there and they agree with me 100%.
However, hopefully the town will re-bound down the road. Yes it is diverse w/many many new peoples. Would you really bring up your children up there right now the way the it is, I don't think so.
As for Italian-American as I am, we brought a lot of class to the area along with our Irish, German, and other ethnic friends.
I'm sorry, you are incorrect with your analogy. The place is not the SAME. I would not in the condition it is now move back. However, we both know how beautiful it once was, and that is the memory I will always cherish.
Mike, you would actually walk with your family along Jamaica Ave, and feel comforatble? I don't think so.
Added: August 27, 2010


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

Mike Romano...
your dead on with your statements... the neighborhood is gone... the new people are not european and have no respect for there homes... all they do is live in it... theres no up keep no gardens, and no paint brushes... lol... but I still call it home... it was once a great place to live
Added: August 27, 2010


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

The name of the stables in Forest Park was "Dixie Stables".
As a kid I would get there early on saturday mornings to help clean out the stables and saddle the horses. My pay was 3 hours of free riding.
Added: August 26, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Dave O'halloran
From: Chatam, nj
E-mail:

Re mike romano's comments
It takes honesty and heart to express what many of us feel from such a great place to live and grow up. It was the very best and no one nor time will take away.
Dave O, 126th st and 101st (liberty) ave. St. Bennie's 61 and Molloy 65.
Added: August 26, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
William "Will" Bremmer
From: South Brunswick, NJ
E-mail:

Does anyone remember the horses in Forest Park?
Do the stables still exist? I remember seeing them as a kid and always wanted to ride a horse through Forest Park.
I plan to visit nearby in Great Neck, Nassau L.I. for 1 week in September (Labor Day weekend) and would be willing to finally make a dream come true if it is possible.
Added: August 26, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Gail Metz
From: Pennsylvania
E-mail:

I wondered if anyone who went to St. Benedict Joseph Labre School on 117th Street remembers Donald Edwards and his sister, Mary?
They moved around 1951-52 to New London, CT. We lost touch and I'd really love to reconnect with them now. I lived across the street from them on 116th Street. Gail Metz
Added: August 26, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Mike Romano
From: Once there, Now here
E-mail:

Paul La Vecchia,
I had to write in after reading your honest, politically incorrect comments about the embarrassing decline of the once noble place called Richmond Hill.
The truth is undeniable, like it or not-the decay of the neighborhood, like so many other proud suburban enclaves throughout Queens and Brooklyn, seems to be directly linked to the fading influence of the once ubiquitous European American influence- yes, I'm stating the obvious, what we all know in our hearts to be true, but have been stifled from expressing in today's social climate...
I'm proud of what my Italian-American ancestors, along with German, English, Irish, Polish, and all other European people have contributed to the quality of life in our local communities and the country as a whole!
Neighborhoods were safe, clean, and a great place to raise children in the tradition of their parents and grandparents. I'm sorry to say that today I can walk from one end of Jamaica Avenue to the other, and I'd be hard-pressed to hear more than a handful of conversations spoken in English- yes, does anybody remember English?
Listening to today's social commentary, you'd think it was somehow wrong to cherish being an American who embraces the values upon which this country was built- hard work, respect for the family, which included a mother and father married to one another, and friends and neighbors too proud to take a free ride on their medicaid and benefits cards...
Richmond Hill is still a great place to visit, provided you have a time machine in which travel to the past, or you visit this website and connect with the people who remember how proud they once felt to call Richmond Hill home.
Added: August 26, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Mike Hedler
From: sevierville tn.
E-mail: mikkat@wildblue.net

Paul that is correct,
Your Dad made a catcher out of me like it or not, great memories.
Added: August 24, 2010


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

Paul, I guess I was in the 6th grade to the 8th grade, so that had to be about 1965 to 1967...
Mr demayo was one of my coaches... he lived on 98st... think his son mickey was our center fielder... and ox polker also was on the team... lol... man have to think way back on those guys...
remember the parade start at the chase manhatten bank on forest park drive... one thing about rich haven they had great uniforms...
Added: August 24, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Deirdre Caulfield
From: Dublin, Ireland
E-mail:

Glad I found this website.
I lived in Richmond Hill briefly during the 1970s while attending St. Johns University. I'll never forget getting lost at Union Turnpike. So many buses.
But I truly loved living there (Lefferts Boulevard and I think 91st Avenue). I was in the center of everything. University, JFK Airport, Jamaica Ave, Queens Boulevard, Parks, Subways to Manhattan. I plan to visit again.
Added: August 23, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Robert (Bob) Van Nostrand
From: Calif. (L.A.) County
E-mail: rvan70@aol.com

Lived 101-31 130th Street, south of 101st Ave.
Attended R.H.H.S. until 1946... Whew, that seems like a log time ago. Don't recognize any of the names logged in here...
Added: August 23, 2010


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

Mike Hedler: I think it was the Giants.
I believe you, me, and my brother Tom were on the same team.
Billy Heaney: What years did you play in RHLL?
Just spoke to Mike Landers who lives in Mississippi (yes that Mississippi) LOL. We spoke for while about the Hill. He worked in Harry's Deli 62-65 and lived on 108th between Jam ave and 89th ave. Great Chat.
Checked out the Wall St journal article, what a joke. To say the neighborhood (especially Jamaica ave) is getting better is crazy. It has deteriorated to a slum. I was embarassed to parade my wife around back in 2005.
The only area still beautiful is the Park. Most of the north side of Jam Ave. was somewhat in tact. The European heritage is gone.
Added: August 23, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Danny Roth
From: Norwalk, CT
E-mail:

I grew up near Metropolitan Ave and Lefferts Blvd. Enjoyed all the comments on the website. It truly brought me back. Hoffbrau, Jahns, and RKO Keith, I will always cherish. Thanks!
Added: August 23, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Anthony Mancaruso
From: Homosassa Florida
E-mail: amancaruso@tampabay.rr.com

Have been missing lately. I like to look and go back to my childhood in Richmond Hill.
My father served in World War I and received the purple heart for his wounds. I remember the parades with the American Legion to Forest Park and the Monument. We were so proud and thought this country was the one and ONLY.
Keep up the good work and the memories alive.
Added: August 22, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Dennis Doyle
From: Richmond Hill, NY
E-mail: webmaster@richmondhillhistory.org
Melissa Collins:
I have forwarded your request to Carl Ballenas, our local historian. He is also an Officer for the Friends of Maple Grove.
If he has further information, he will certainly reply back to you.
Added: August 22, 2010

Submitted by Comments:
melissa collins
From: richmond hill queens
E-mail: mpelle4870@aol.com

My Great Grandfather was a Laborer on the L.I.R.R. out of richmond hill in 1870. His name was patrick callan, how can I get any info. on that.
Also his children went to the early school 1875 that was opened september 16th, under the care of miss ella g. gale. Where and how can I get any information on my family?
They lived on 111th. st. in 1867 then moved to 112th. st. They are all buried in maple grove cemetery queens.
Thank you for any help. Melissa C.
Added: August 22, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Jim Lovett
From: Rockland, Maine
E-mail: mrpig55@yahoo.com

John Trainor, good to hear from a neighbor.
Names don't ring a bell but it's been many years. Memory is going.
Hung out at the schoolyard til 72-73, graduated to the liquid hangouts. On 125th st. by school there was a brother and sister named George and Janice. On 124th right by school, Rob Morelli lived. We played sponge ball there, too many windows and houses. Played hand ball in back of school by the ramp that went into the yard.
We use to "borrow" 6 packs of Piels from the Key Food on 101st av. When we had money we got an OLDER teenager to buy Yago Sangria. They were ONLY 89 cents a bottle then.
If you can remember more let me know I'll jar my memory more.
Added: August 21, 2010


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

if anybody would like to take a trip to richmond hill,
just go to vpike.com, type in a address and you can see the changes.
Added: August 21, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
JEFF COSTIGAN
From: FRESH MEADOWS NY
E-mail: LEFTY5895@MSN.com

Hi, want to know if there is any info yet bout the Forest Park Carousel.
Been closed for a while now. A shame the City could mess with this landmark. I hope the City can find a vendor to operate it, would really be a loss to the neighborhoods around it. Even visitors from other areas. Great for little kids.
If anyone has info bout the Carousel please pass it on, really appreciate it!! J. Costigan
Added: August 21, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Dennis Doyle
From: Richmond Hill, NY
E-mail: webmaster@richmondhillhistory.org
Thanks John Celauro:
Click here for the Wall Street Journal article "New Immigrants Put Stamp on Richmond Hill".
Added: August 20, 2010

Submitted by Comments:
John Celauro
From: Long Island
E-mail:

Today's (Friday Aug 20) Wall St Journal has an article on Richmond Hill and the changes it has seen.
Perhaps someone can supply a link.
Added: August 20, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Jim Lovett
From: Rockland, Maine
E-mail: mrpig55@yahoo.com

Just skimming thru posts of previous years and found 2 real close to me.
First from Ralph Morea from a post in 08 about Nick's on 123rd & Liberty. Great place to stop walking home from the lefferts movies. Second from Rich McDermott in 8/08 about Ralph's candy store. I lived 4 doors down above the bike store. Hung out there at the store with the Raffanello's, McGowans, to name a few. This was between 67-75.
If you remember more email me.
Added: August 20, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
john trainor
From: northport ny
E-mail: islraven@yahoo.com

Jim Lovett,
If you played ball on 125th st between 101st & 103rd Aves you remember the school there. My friends and I played basketball & softball there often. On 124th st we played stickball and punchball. Later we hung out by Hugo's Ice cream parlor, Liberty & Lefferts.
Do you remember anyone from 125th st, Bobby Belanti, Diane Dietz, Billy Cummings? They were two lovely blocks, large, old trees, quiet, a good place for kids growing up.
Added: August 20, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Dominick Augello
From: Diamond Bar, Ca
E-mail: dominick@jainternational.com

Reading about the old watering holes. Brings me back to the more care free days.
There was a place on Park Lane South called The Park Lane. I don't know how any guys from Richmond Hill (under 18) got their first beers in bar but it had to be there.
The police from the 102nd would be in the front door everyone would be out the back door. It was a comedy. The place burned down few years ago.
Every one keep up the good work on the site .
Added: August 20, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Steve Batthany
From: East Moriches (the site of PA Flight 800)
E-mail: ebatthany@aol.com

Good to see comments from Bob Rickert, Jim Burke, and Vinny Smith.
Will try to straighten out some geohistorical facts about queries on the website. Yes cordes was an ice cream parlor if you went west to 114th and Jamaica (hard by the Garden Theatre with it's outdoor theater on the roof.
Jahns is now closed. I had the occasion to stop in before they shut the doors and the place was last owned by a Russian couple who waited on 4 old folks and sold them coffee and buns, and "no" Selma was no longer the cashier nor was "Pickles" Flaherty the manager.
Most sad there would no longer be any of those Friday night poker & crap games, we would have to go to 130th St behind "Bungalow Bar".
As far as Salernos, all you said is true but rumor has it that is is an Indian restaurant. When Jay Marshall sold Glenns to AL Wolfendale (Glenn was Als son hence the name).
He moved up to 135th St & Lefferts and yes Jay Kennedy and TV John were the batrtenders. The place was frequented by air port folks, (Kennedy was still Idlewild in those days) and by the racetrack fans and personnel. Some rumor has it that it was the prototype for the gin mill in "Good Fellas".
Hi Vinny Smith, yes that was Al Victor a really nice guy & my sister lives in East Port, she is well. Mike is still up in the Catskills and I'll tell him Hi.
Jim Burke we knew your uncle John and I can say on his behalf that I never saw him fall down. To Bob Rickert, HI! Marie just had knee surgery Tuesday. She is doing and can you imagine that Bobby Thompson is dead.Should of been the other way around like old #13.
I remember that Branca, Thompson, Jean Hermanski, and a few Yankees showed up to play at Dexter Park on the Sunday following that terrible game.
Well that's all folks. Would love to roll the years back and go to the Jerome for 9 cents, no one believes it.
Added: August 19, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Bob Rickert
From: Wilmington, DE
E-mail: mbrickert@aol.com

To answer the inquiry from Jim Grady.
Salerno had a store front restaurant/pizza place next door to Marshall's - which was located on the corner. Jay and Bill Marshall sold their bar to the Salerno people in the late '50s and bought a bar down Lefferts near the Belt Parkway. Salerno then expanded their store front into the old Marshall's.
Many a cool brew I enjoyed in Marshall's.
Added: August 19, 2010


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

Paul, yes I played 3 years in rich haven baseball...
best baseball there was... much better than the cyo... I think myself and jack maple along with vinny shelhorn played on the mets, and the cardinals... lol... man that was a long time ago...
played down on the conduit... i think it was called TWIN FIELDS... Vinny Shellhorn was a very good pitch... fast...
hey what was the name of the mens store on the corner of 111 st. next to steves pizza...
Added: August 19, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
mike hedler
From: sevierville tn.
E-mail:

Paul, I played in that league.
Remember your dad was one of my coahes.
Added: August 19, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Ginger Kopp
From: N.E. Pa
E-mail:

I will not go on f.b. anymore. Burned by hackers too many times.
This msg. is for Mrs. Akus (forgot your first name, sorry) but wanted to know if your Mom is Betty and your brother is John.
I use to be a den mother with your Mom if that is your relative. She was/is a wonderful person and we had great times. We shared many a laugh together and marched in all the Liberty Ave. parades, along with our little Cub Scouts.
I hope she is well and if so, please tell her Ginger sends her best regards. Too bad I cannot put email address online anymore but know she will remember me, as dearly as I remember her.
God bless... excuse typos but this text is too small for we old folks.
Added: August 19, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Jim Lovett
From: Rockland, Maine
E-mail: mrpig55@yahoo.com

Have enjoyed reading the comments. Some of my memories are living in RH from 58-77.
Lived at 125th & liberty. Went to St Theresa's, graduated in 69. I remember Mrs. Sinnot and getting my bell rung many times by Sister Rita. Went to Brooklyn Tech, graduated in 73.
Discovered the real world of parties. Al's Stereo, Red Den, to name a few. But best memories were pizza at Lefferts & Liberty the best, Lefferts movies, Al Victors for music, Uncle Jacks for anything for kids. Brakfast at St John's at 4 am. Smokey Park, stickball at the school yard on 125th st between 103rd av, and 101st av.
Anyone remember the places around these dates email me.
Added: August 18, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Jim Grady
From: Niagara Frontier
E-mail: gjepd@roadrunner.com

When did Salerno's come into existence?
I remember that location as Marshall's until 1955, was not around after that.
Added: August 18, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Helen Akus Eagleston
From: Marbletown, NY
E-mail:

If you are on Facebook, there is a Richmond Hill page with some wonderful conversations, recollections and photos.
Added: August 18, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Ginger Kopp
From: N.E. Pa.
E-mail:

Jimmy Lovett,
I do not know if you are THE Jimmy that lived over Shannons Bar for a long time. If it is, I wrote to your email address, if not, please disregard.
For some reason I thought you had moved to California. I miss the days when you were all little boys playing on 126th. St. and being told by our only unfriendly neighbor that only people that lived on our block, could play there.
How the heck are you and if you do get my email (which I cannot post as I was burned on facebook) please let me know how you are and what is happening.
Those sure were the days and I miss them a lot. God bless
Added: August 18, 2010


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

Yes, Cordes was cool, but I believe in the late 60's, the place was called GRIPPA'S, right next to Steves Pizza and Richie Napolitano's apt. (The Best Pitcher in all of RHHS History).
Jimmy Arleo (drummer) played in Grippa's (He set up a small stage in back) for a short time. I think Tom McCann shoes or Miles shoes store was on corner and the pool hall around the corner, upstairs on top of the shoe store.
And of course the great Gebhardt's bakery across the street. Frank Molinaro's dad own the Hat blocking place (also sold them) I believe next to Gebhardt's. And let's not forget the 111 st. bar w/ bowling alley downstairs (played in league 62-4.)
I still can't believe nobody on this site has played in Rich-Haven L.L.
Added: August 18, 2010


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

Tommy Manzo,
God how are you, been a long time, hows your brother mike, does your family still live in the neighborhood, and are you going to the hcj reunion...
my brother is floating from fire house to fire house... think hes up in harlem right now. He told me he work with you a few years back, along with jimmy weirner, and I think JIMMY HAMEL... not sure but pretty amazing all of you in the same house...
anyway hello and yes know all my capitals... was taught by the best... the sisters of st joes... lol
Added: August 17, 2010


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

Gloria, your right on both -
cordies was on 111st next to al's candy store, and frairs maybe wrong with the spelling was on the corner of 107 st... and sweeties was on 102 st.
Added: August 17, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Robert Sheridan
From: Austin, TX
E-mail:

To Gloria Albanese:
Good catch on Cordes. Whether or not it was "Mrs. Cordes" behind the counter we knew her by her first name, "Flo". Good jukebox, great tuna fish, very nice people.
And the Seidler sisters studio was run by Miss Louise if I am not mistaken. Had to sit there many a day waiting for my sister to finish her routine.
And as for Dorgler's auto repair, that was run by a Ferdie Dorgler (60's) - someone my father knew. A name I would have completely forgotten if not for this site.
Added: August 16, 2010


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

Let's not forget the Old Bailey (now Austin Ale House) and 10 Downing Street (now an Italian restaurant owned by Marty Spolan who used to own the sporting goods store).
Added: August 16, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Gloria Albanese
From: Jamesville, NY
E-mail: jalbanese8@twcny.rr.com

To Dennis Doyle - Thanks again for this great website!
One small correction - the ice cream parlor on Jamaica Ave. between 110-111 St. was Cordes (cor-dies). There was another one further west on Jamaica Ave. - Frer's (and now maybe I have the spelling wrong!) at about 107 St., I think.
I grew up on 110 St. near Myrtle Ave. and my grandparents lived on Hillside Ave. between 121-122 St.
Speaking of Glenn's Bar, we went to Seidler Sisters Dancing School as little kids. The Dancing School was upstairs.
Hello to all my fellow dancers ...
Added: August 16, 2010


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

only one month away from the big Holy Child Jesus 100th Bday Bash and my class of 1970's big 40th reunion.
hope to see all my classmates there.
Added: August 16, 2010


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

To John Celauro:
Richie Kreppein and I thank you, it was great seeing old friends again. And yes we will be doing it again next year.
And for the sailor hat, it sure bought back a lot of memories. Rich Newell
Added: August 16, 2010


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

I guess I remember Dorgler's and Lumber Yard and they merged in my mind.
Added: August 16, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
craig kennedy
From: lindenhurst, ny
E-mail:

Grew up on 111 st., family all over RH.
Looking forward to hearing from people born 1937 or so.
Added: August 15, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Dennis Doyle
From: Richmond Hill, NY
E-mail: webmaster@richmondhillhistory.org
To Louise Galiano, Vin Smith, and Jim Burke:
I just did a Google Map Search and "discovered" that Richmond Hill Lumber (115 St. and Atlantic Ave.) is next to Dorgler's Auto Repair (116 St. and Atlantic Ave). Both businesses are still there. Click here to view Google Street view.
Added: August 15, 2010

Submitted by Comments:
Dennis Doyle
From: Richmond Hill, NY
E-mail: webmaster@richmondhillhistory.org
To Louise Galiano:
The Ice Cream Parlor off the corner of 111th St. on Jamaica Avenue was "Chords" and the German Bakery diagonally across on Jamaica Avenue was "Gebhardt's".
I remember a "Dorgler's" car mechanic shop on Atlantic Ave. around 116 St. I had gone there in the early 1970s. They were definitley located there for many years. I tend to remember the Lumber Yard as "Richmond Hill Lumber" as Vin Smith had commented in a earlier post. They were near 115th St. and Atlantic Avenue.
Check out the Richmond Hill Lumber website here. The RH Lumber yard has been there since 1927.
Added: August 15, 2010

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

Dorgler's Lumber Yard (1950)
Added: August 15, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
john celauro
From: long island
E-mail:

Want to give a shout out to Richie Newell and Richie Kreppen for hosting our reunion on Saturday night.
Lots of laughs and good time had by all. Thanks guys for the work you did in gathering us together (herding cats) and supplying the facility and eats and drinks.
Had a good time, hope to do it again.
Added: August 15, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
vin smith
From: saugerties ny
E-mail:

the lumber yard on Atlantic / 114 - 115th st was called (drum roll here) The Richmond Hill Lumber Yard... I think...
Added: August 14, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Jim Lovett
From: 125th & Liberty Av. - Rockland, Maine
E-mail: mrpig55@yahoo.com

Does anyone remember Al's Stereo Bar (111th St & Liberty Av), O'Neil's bar, and Shannon's.
Lefferts movies, Sat matinees in the early 60's for a buck. @ movies, soda and hot dog. Bill's bike store. Uncle Jacks toy store. Great times.
Added: August 14, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
tommy manzo
From: rockville ctr
E-mail:

Billy Heaney,
Billy it was Billy McMahon @ RR not Monahan. Billy can u still name all 50 state capitals?
Added: August 14, 2010


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

There's probably no one still around who remembers my uncle, John McElroy who hung out in Glenn's.
He read newspapers and news magazines from cover to cover and was a walking encyclopedia of news and sports.
Added: August 13, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Louise Galiano, (nee-Schwark)
From: las vegas
E-mail: electricdoctorinc@cox.net

Does anyone remember the name of:
the Ice Cream Parlor on 111th St. & Jamaica Ave, the German bakery diagonally across from it on 111th St & Jamaica Ave., the little mom & pop German deli on 111th st. just off the n/e corner of Atlantic Ave., or the name of the Lumber yard on Atlantic and 114th-115th Sts?
Added: August 13, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
John Celauro
From: Long Island
E-mail:

I remember Glenns Bar. I used to hang there in 1968, drinking my first beers at 18 (legal then), in those tiny glasses, for 25 cents. Every third was a buy back.
In August 1968, I was in there watching TV and the Democratic National Convention in Chicago was on and we were watching the protesters in the streets getting beat by the cops and yelling "the whole world is watching". I was then radicalized to leftist politics.
Now, I listen to Rush Limbaugh every day religiously. We've come a long way baby.
Added: August 13, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Phil Curia
From: Indio, California
E-mail: PJEMS14@aol.com

Hi. I just picked up my granddaughter from Del Taco's and she was telling me about all of her friends hanging out there.
For some reason, I remembered my days of hanging out with my peers at Jahn's Ice Cream Palor in Richmond Hill Queens. I told her about the kitchen sink and how great the place was with wooden tables and how we would carve our name in them. What a great time I had there with my friends. I started going there as soon as I got my driver's license in 1967 and kept going there with dates and friends till about 1975 when I got married and moved to New Jersey.
I said to my granddaughter tonight, maybe I will go on line and look up Jahn's and see if anything comes up. I am glad you had this web site and that you printed a great article. You brought great memories alive.
God Bless You, Phil Curia.
P.S.: I went on to read about Forest Hills park. Another memory that was such a great place to visit with my family. We had such a great time there. Just a few short minutes from the "city", brooklyn and we were in the country, complete with a carousel and pony rides. The trees were tall, the atmosphere was fun and there was never a threat of vandalism or anyone bothering us. No crime ever was present back then in 1955-1965.
What another great memory to have lived in those times was something really special. Sharing with my family was especially great. I moved out to California in 2000 and still live here, but it is so great to remember those simple times.
Thanks again for the web site, Phil Curia.
Added: August 13, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Robert Sheridan
From: Austin, TX
E-mail:

There is considerable mention of Glenn's bar. It was my next door neighbors on 107th between 86th Ave & Jamaica Ave who founded and first opened Glenn's.
Their names were Al (I think) and Paula Wolfangle - to me they were Mr. & Mrs. Wolfangle. They had two children. Karla - a dancer in NYC, and son Glenn, hence the name Glenn's. He was a fair bit older than I was and a deaf mute. A gem of a guy and a lovely family.
I recall them being very generous to their next door neighbors (me) at Halloween. I trust there are others who may also be familiar with the heritage of Glenn's- a spot my parents would periodically visit before it morphed into a spot for the younger crowd.
At the same time my parents were fairly close friends with the Four Bros (Triangle Hofbrau). At the Hofbrau I had the chance more than once to be brought into an inner courtyard (Hof?) where I would see a recently dressed deer hanging by its haunches. Venison was a fixture, in season, on their menu. Pretty rare for me to see a deer - dead or alive - in Richmond Hill!
With the proximity of these two institutions they could very well have offered up Richmond Hill's first version and opportunity for a pub crawl.
Added: August 12, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Eddie Marino
From: Syracuse, NY
E-mail:

Anyone remember the tailor on Park Lane South opposite Jackson's Pond? (He resembled a brown-haired version of Harpo Marx).
I once brought a leather jacket in to have the pockets re-lined, and when I returned days later to pick it up, he had sewn the flap pockets shut, rendering them useless. It seems he didn't know how to replace a pocket lining, and when I complained, he became indignant! I paid the bill, but I should have disarmed his sewing machine before I left...
some things you just never forget, especially if you're a kid with no money for a new jacket!...
just another story from the old neighborhood.
Added: August 12, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Frank Mignone
From: Hamel Minnesota
E-mail: mplsfrank@aol.com

Just reading the 2010 entries, looking for names, from long ago and found Phyllis Chechile. That was a name that was part of the Ponce Pizza gang.
I am retired now and have been seeing the world by bicycle. I am planning a bike trip from Minnesota to the old country Richmond Hill.
Dennis Doyle keep up the good work hope all is well for you.
Added: August 12, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Ed Pirog
From: Atlanta, GA
E-mail: epirog@comcast.net

Glenns was across the street from the RKO Kieths and Jahns. Does anyone know if the bar is still there?
Took the wife there on our first date.
Added: August 11, 2010


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

Paul:
the royals played at richmond hill high school in the night league, we had a group of guys who played together for about 20 years...
we became Glenns bar when the old owner AL Katz wanted to sponcer us, he bought the uniforms and paid the fees in the long island press league...
we won the division about 6 or 7 times and played in the finals of the press league a few years in a row... very good team... we use to play the 102 pct every wed night for a barrel of beer at victory field... and all went back to the bar to have some fun... later we change to regents row...
speaking of the randell island tourment, yes we played in it as well... and yes we made it to the finals in that as well... something like 6 or 7 games in a row... I remember vinger hill...
we use to drink in the bar on the corner of 112 st... the one nobody went into... but you could be 16 and drink... it was called pops...lol and the bookies use to place the bets on the horse in there... they could care less who drank there... we also played out in jones beach...
later on... team finally broke up a few years ago... to old to play...lol
Glenns bar was across the street from jahns and salernos... 117st and hillside ave... bar tenders freddie schmidth, and bill monahan, to go along with old ralph... great bar... like cheers everyone knew your name...
Added: August 11, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Vin Smith
From: saugerties ny
E-mail: vlsmithfam@aol.com

Hey Steve Batthany -
thanx for the info but there was a more correct entry that stated the music store as Al Victors. That's what I recall also. Liberty and 123rd St.
Just saw my brothers Danny (lives on LI) and Bob who lives in SC. Visited w/ them at Dans' over this past weekend. Tell Mike to give me a shout. Is Cecilia still living on LI? What about Rod?
Here's to Kavons'! Stay well, Vin S.
Added: August 10, 2010


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

Billy Heaney:
Where was Glenn's bar (sounds familiar) and where did the RH Royals play softball (What years)?
We played for Pisano's on 112th I believe and Liberty Ave. Also played for Guy's Vinager Hill across street from The Big "A" back in the early 70's. Played in tournaments at Riker's Island (elimination) played until you lost.
We did quite well except by the 3rd game you were drained somewhat by the summer heat, and the fact we usually partied the night before. Great times we had playing ball.
Added: August 10, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Dominick Augello
From: Diamond Bar, Ca
E-mail: dominick@jainternational.com

It is enjoyable to read some of the entries. They bring back alot of good times in Richmond Hill. We truely grew up in Gods Country.
Guys keep up the good work. Lived on 102nd and 85th ave from 1943 to 1975 .
Added: August 8, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Dennis Doyle
From: Richmond Hill, NY
E-mail: webmaster@richmondhillhistory.org
Billy Heaney:
Thanks for pointing out that "Richmond Hill's Hero" Sgt. Joseph E. Schaefer was missing from our list of Noteworthy People from Richmond Hill. He is now (finally) included.
Added: August 8, 2010

Submitted by Comments:
Betty Fay
From: Oxford Mass
E-mail: dreamhaven@hotmail.com

I have a beautifully embossed green autograph book from your Edgar D Shimer Junior High School class of 1934.
It belonged to a George Gross. The Principal was D. Daniel Wallstern. His graduating teacher was Miss Etta Maker.
I was wondering if you have any information on the students in this graduating class.
Added: August 6, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Joe Coscia
From: Highlands Ranch, Colorado
E-mail: cmichjoe@comcast.net

What a great site!!
I grew up and was raised in Richmond Hill and this is truly a way to go back to those great days when life was much easier and without cell phones, and people actually talked to each other!!
Lived on 93rd Avenue between 104th and 107th Street. Great memories of RKO Keiths and all of the other sites.
Thanks again!!!!!!!
Added: August 6, 2010


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

ok best softball team from the area... richmond hill royals... then later we were called glenns bar.
Added: August 6, 2010


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

Yes the best diner was on 111st and Atlantic... especially after closing hours at Glenns bar.
Best damn cheese burgers with all the grease, just help fill you up at 3am... or 4am... spent many a night there...
and on saturday which was really sunday, then off to the beach... lol
Added: August 6, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
edward bornschein
From: east rockaway ny
E-mail: eddieb1222@aol.com
to jim burke my boat thief buddy, the diner was on 112 St.
that was my stop after closing the bar. john the short order cook was a crazy guy, back then i invented the bacon cheese burger.
that was bob johnson last stop before he got killed on his motor cycle. we hung out in toms bar, he was going home to get his car when that happened.
Added: August 6, 2010

Submitted by Comments:
Maureen Scanlon Conneally
From: Westchester County
E-mail:

A great website for R.H. and all of "old New York":
http://www.screanews.us/NewYork/ContentsNewYork.html
Added: August 6, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Ed Pirog
From: Atlanta, GA
E-mail: epirog@comcast.net

Cyndi Lauper lived down stairs from my wife when they were growing up. We got to go to some of her concerts by invite both before and after she made it big.
Another star who didn't quite make it big was a worker at Steve's pizza place off 114st street and Jamacia ave. His first role was in Happy Days as a pick pocket and his most noticable was one of the thugs in Goodfellas... can't think of his name.
Added: August 6, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Chris Glasser
From: Corinth, TX
E-mail: glasser7@aol.com

To Matt W.:
I remember you as if it was yesterday. I believe you were more commonly known as "Mattie". I was in the younger bunch and you probably remember my older brother(s). Most of us were Met's fans and while Shea had it's own personality, our 123rd Street stickball field was unique with our outfield starting at 95th Avenue.
I still remember a ball that was hit hard enough to stick in between the hubcap and rim of a car driving by, causing a "car rule" game ending. At least if it would have went down the sewer we could have lifted up the sewer plate and fished it out with a coat hanger.
Such great memories. Hope all is well and keep the memories alive.
Added: August 6, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Fran Werner
From: Plainview NY
E-mail: Frantchr@aol.com

I have a picture dated July 1921 of the Richmond Hill's Business Association.
My uncle is in that picture as he was a builder. Since all of his immediate family is deceased I thought you might want to keep it in your archives. I can be reached by email. FRAN WERNER
Added: August 5, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Jim Burke
From: Long Beach, CA
E-mail:
The 111th St diner was on Atlantic.
We went to "mass" in the back of a bar on Jerome that opened early.
Added: August 5, 2010

Submitted by Comments:
Joanne Gesuele
From: Centereach, NY
E-mail:
Edward Bornschein:
Will do, thank you. Joanne
Added: August 5, 2010

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

If you didn't go the diners on 111th st and Atlantic ave. and the one down the block from the bowling alley that was across the street from the Triangle Hoffbrau, then you weren't a true Hillite.
The diner on 111th was Silver and sort of oval shaped and looked like a train car. Best eggs, home fries and bacon, plus coffee and cheap. The other one was similar, great breakfast. We would go to the 111th st diner after a long night of partying. Me, Bobby Winters, and the "gang" and eat. Then trek home. Don't forget on Atlantic ave and 108th st was CARVEL.
Went back to 111st diner in 1980's, and it changed its outer appearance to a aluminum siding look (Brownish) if I remember. I spoke with Richie Newell 9:00 AM this morning and we talked for almost an hour about our experiences back in the day. We also spoke of the many people on this site that claim they were in the Park the years we were, and we coulnd't re-call any of them. They say they were there the same years we were with many friends (like us) but who were you people? We never SAW YOU.
Remember were talking 1960-thru early 70's. So the rest of you Hillites stop claiming this was your "turf" IT WASN'T.
Added: August 5, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
mary johnson
From: Long Branch NJ
E-mail: mjohnson@pershing.com

To Dennis Doyle:
I am glad I was able to forward that information to you about Bob Sheppard. It was fun learning that he came from Richmond Hill and had such an interesting life. And I love the website you created for him.
And it gave me a chance to look at some of the other famous people from Richmond Hill too. I knew about Jack Lord; I didn't know about Cyndi Lauper though. How interesting! The more I think about it, the more I realize how fortunate I was to grow up there.
Thank you again and have a great day! Regards, Mary Johnson
Added: August 5, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
john hitsos
From: atlanta, ga.
E-mail:
Al Victors music store was the small music/sports store that was located between 121 and 122nd st.
They offered music lessons in the back usually by the guys in the local nieghborhood bands.
Added: August 5, 2010

Submitted by Comments:
John Celauro
From: Long Island
E-mail:
Diners... The "diner" on 111th st (I assume you mean on Jamaica Ave, next to the pool hall, downstairs to the left) was great to go to Mass to. We used to order the Holy Fries, while ostensibly attending Mass. Great place... did a lot of praying there (that our parents wouldn't walk in and see us).
I remember a diner near the triangle... near the Einhorn's supermarket (Harry Fuimaria would remember Einhorns, competitor to Bohack, who as I recall bought them out. I'm kind of sketchy there, but Harry weigh in on that if you would), later Key Food...
I vaguely recall a bowling alley there, the diner though near there had great fries too, for a quarter no less. Took some first dates there, expressing my fidelity to them, till they started to compare notes.
I was busted due to my diner exploits.
Added: August 5, 2010

Submitted by Comments:
Steve Batthany
From: east moriches NY
E-mail: ebatthany@aol.com
to vinny smith: an old neighbor from 114 st
Hey Vinny, I think that the store you are talking about was called Arlos (the propritors) last name.
He was very nice and had fine merchandice. I think that he sold some jewelry in the store. sbatthany SBJL52
Added: August 4, 2010

Submitted by Comments:
PATRICIA CENTAURO FONTANA
From: FLORIDA
E-mail:
Lived on 120th Street between 107th & Liberty Ave.
What a great site! I will be back!
Added: August 4, 2010

Submitted by Comments:
edward bornschein
From: east rockaway ny
E-mail: eddieb1222@aol.com
to the person looking for terry bornschein she is my cousin.
go to super pages .com type in her name and you will get her phone number. i sent you an email but it must have went to spam.
regards eddie
Added: August 3, 2010

Submitted by Comments:
Robert Oldham
From: Maine
E-mail: roldha11@yahoo.com
Arthur, Joe, Patty, Rose, 110th gang
from Bobby
Added: August 3, 2010

Submitted by Comments:
Anne Sanks Miller
From: Hobe Sound Florida
E-mail: amiller1957@live.com
To Joanne Gesuele:
I forgot alll about Uncle Jacks's. I remember on the first day he had a line outside his door. All the kids in the neighborhood went there to buy school supplies.
Those were the days, and Gertz Department Store. Memories, Memories, thanks for bringing them back :)
Added: August 3, 2010

Submitted by Comments:
Bob Winter
From: Huntington Beach, CA
E-mail:
Diners - hands down - 111st. Diner for late night fun in the late '60s.
Added: August 2, 2010

Submitted by Comments:
vin smith
From: saugerties, ny
E-mail:
There was a small music store on Liberty on about 121st or 123st. I can't remember the name. I bought a Black Les Paul guitar there back in 1970. Now He Made The Best Pizza!
Added: August 2, 2010

Submitted by Comments:
John Stott
From: Austin, Texas
E-mail: jcstott@aol.com
In 1950 I visited with the Dr. George and Ruth Fernlund, I believe it was at 86-20 115th street just a few doors off Jamaca ave. It was at the time of the Long Island RR collision. I was with their nephew Robert C. Rogers, we were in the US Air Force at the time.
If you know of anyone that remains of the Fernlund family I would like to hear from them. Any news would be appreciated.
Added: August 1, 2010

Submitted by Comments:
Bob Wood
From: Irmo, SC
E-mail:
Just checking... again.
Anyone remember Anthony Market, Kenneth Erwin, Jimmy Dooley, Virginia Giaconni, Margaret Dempsey... mid 1950's at HCJ?
I lived at 114-11 86th Avenue. I see the house has recently sold. Fun to see on Google. Long time since I left but still fond memories.
Added: August 1, 2010

Submitted by Comments:
Joanne Felicciardi Gesuele
From: Centereach, NY
E-mail: liloveit@hotmail.com
Bornschien:
I've noticed many comments posted by people with the name Bornschein. Are any of you related to a "Terry Bornschien" she and I met while working together at CBS / Columbia Records in NYC (Now Sony Entertainment Music).
We were good friends, but lost touch, I've been trying to track her down. She lived on 101st Avenue in RH, and moved to the Lindenhurst area with her family.
Added: July 31, 2010

Submitted by Comments:
Joanne Felicciardi Gesuele
From: Centereach, NY
E-mail:
Wow what great memories.
Spent lots of time at all these places, John Adams Sr. day spent at Jahns with many from the graduating class of 74. I do remember Gertz Christmas display, nothing even comes close. Does anyone remember the book club at Gertz. You'd get a b-day card and an invite to come pick up a book of your choice, which now that I think back on it I'm sure had to be paid for by my mom.
Another great memory is that of the Memorial Day parade. Remember "Uncle Jacks" toy store on Liberty Ave and about 119th Street. He always received the loudest cheers.
Added: July 31, 2010

Submitted by Comments:
Mary Fleury
From: Middletown, Rhode Island
E-mail: mperlingiero@cox.net
Looking for information on the family of Dr. Fernlund.
They had 3 children - Kristen, Audrey, and Richard. They lived on 115th Street next to Union Congregational Church.
I believe their home was sold in 1962. They also owned a home in Huntington, L.I. Would appreciate any leads.
Added: July 31, 2010

Submitted by Comments:
Linda (Trick) Fleury
From: Boca Raton, FL
E-mail: lindafleury26@yahoo.com
Teresa, Hope all is well with you.
I agree about Salerno's - they had great food and it was affordable. The only thing I didn't like was when that accordian player came to your table. It was usually when you had a mouthful of pasta and the other diners would all turn to stare at you.
I think people tipped him so he would go away!
Added: July 31, 2010

Submitted by Comments:
Maureen Connelly Cahill
From: Sun City Hilton Head
E-mail:
I lived right near Salerno's & they had great pizza & Italian food. The two owners were Nick & Joe (I Think)?
Added: July 30, 2010

Submitted by Comments:
Teresa Smith Pedone
From: NY/PA
E-mail: apedone@ptd.net
I am surprised no one has mentioned that wonderful Italian Restaurant Salernos... right near Jahns!!
They had great Italian food! Maybe I missed that posting!
Added: July 30, 2010

Submitted by Comments:
J. Santini
From: New York
E-mail:
One more vote for Pizza City on Crossbay Blvd., some of the best sicilian pizza ever to hit a hot oven.
It was always a welcome stop on the way back from Rockaway Beach on a hot summer afternoon, along with a tall cold soda, it was a perfect ending to a lazy summer vacation day... who cared if the old Merc we drove had no air conditioning, we were used to the heat, as most of us had no A/C at home either...
I'm old enough to remember as well the White Castle on Rockaway Blvd. and Liberty Ave., where the girls would roll out on skates to take your order as you pulled up to a spot in the parking lot. Open the window halfway and soon she'd come out with a plastic coated tray piled high with sliders on a paper plate covered with a sheet of waxed paper, the greasiest and tasiest fries, and ice cold cokes and orange drinks in paper cups which reminded us "don't be a litterbug" and dispose of properly. She'd clip that tray onto the car window, and we were set. Who could forget that aroma!...
great times, even better now with the passing years.
Added: July 30, 2010

Submitted by Comments:
Carolyn Kirchgessner Ota
From: Pasadena, CA
E-mail: carolynota@aol.com
Hey everyone, the best thing about Richmond Hill is that we all grew up there!
Someone mentioned Pizza City, it reminded me of Lenny's Clam Bar (?) that was on the other side of Crossbay Blvd. and had the most delicious stuffed baked clams that I have ever eaten.
Added: July 29, 2010

Submitted by Comments:
John Celauro
From: Long Island NY
E-mail:
In order to end the "GREAT PIZZA DEBATE" I offer, even though it was outside of the perimeter of Richmond Hill as I described in a previous post...
I offer the place where we all went to on the way home from the beach (Rockaway) and that was PIZZA CITY. That should end it. No one didn't like PIZZA CITY. It was a factory, serving thousands of pies to all you beachgoers, whether you hitched to the beach, drove, rode your bike or walked (because no one picked you up when you did hitch.)
End of discussion... now onto... hmmm? diners?
Added: July 28, 2010

Submitted by Comments:
mark w young
From: baton rouge la
E-mail: cocozak1@aol.com
cosmo - mark young
the last time i sean you was in a coffee shop on the east side near the fdr drive, i think it was first avenue. i walked in and you were sitting on the wright side of the store. you had a con edison hat on and it was blue. we talked a bit and that was it .
the year was 1971 or 1972 i am guesing. take care, mark
Added: July 28, 2010

Submitted by Comments:
Roberta Dee
From: Atlantic Beach, N.Y.
E-mail: bertros6@yahoo.com
Spent most of my childhood & adult years in Richmond Hill!!
It will always be a part of my heart!!
Added: July 27, 2010

Submitted by Comments:
MARY ROSE
From: BOYTON BEACH FLA
E-mail:
Hi - anyone living in Florida that remembers Carlos Pizza should visit Dominics iii in Lake Worth (Hypoluxo and Jog rds).
This is the same owner as the original Carlos Pizza in RH, they even have a picture hanging up of the original place in Richmond Hill with Charlie Maggio. Pizza is excellent (same original recipe) and brought back a lot of memories for me!!!! Ask for the owner Matty (Matteo) - a great guy who worked many years at Carlos on Lefferts Blvd.
He loves talking to people from the old neighborhood!
Added: July 27, 2010

Submitted by Comments:
Diane Caracciola
From: NC
E-mail: Dianeatwork2003@yahoo.com
WOW! I didn't recognize one name on the posts I read, but I certainly recognized all the places! smokey park, the boys club, Big Bow-wow - which immediately reminded me of mystic colasus. And all the pizza places!
I read some posts of years past, & someone mentioned the Christmas village at Gertz. That is something I will never forget! Great site!
Added: July 27, 2010

Submitted by Comments:
Frank Lanzone
From: Manhasset
E-mail: flanzone@aol.com
I did not know that Bob Sheppard lived on 110th St!
Over the years it uncanny to see how many people I have met that all lived within a few blocks of me on 110th St.
Tom Kiesling whose dad had KayJay Meats on Liberty Ave, Sean Grimes whose dad was the Morton's Salt 'very uncommon actor' and later starred on "All in the Family." Rich Kaiser. All the Corrigans. Mike Friend, who wrote the book "Kitchen Spanish" and Kim West amongst others.
Added: July 26, 2010

Submitted by Comments:
Vince Glasser
From: Claremore, Ok
E-mail: vinceglasser@cox.net
Tom Feldman:
Tommy Ivo of S&S speed shop. Haven't thought of him in a long time. There were so many muscle cars in the Richmond Hill area to list.
I was merely scratching the surface. Artie Truman had a dragster up on 124 St and Hillside Ave at his gas station too. Had two 426 hemis in it. To my knowledge he never got up the nerve to drive it.
Added: July 24, 2010

Submitted by Comments:
Cosmo Mastropaolo
From: New Vernon New Jersey
E-mail:
Looking for classmates who graduated from St Benedict Joseph in 1960 and Richmond Hill High 1964.
Added: July 24, 2010

Submitted by Comments:
Frank Lanzone
From: Manhasset
E-mail: flanzone@aol.com
I dont know if anyone looks at this site anymore.
Anyhow, we lived in RH from 54 through 70. My dad was a doctor on 110th st. I could go on forever about where i grew up.
fond memories include Winther's, Sukons, Al Diamonds, Kresges, Levensons, The El, the multiple pizza places, the Casino and Lefferts theaters, smokey oval etc.
Added: July 23, 2010

Submitted by Comments:
edward bornschein
From: east rockaway ny
E-mail: eddieb1222@aol.com
to all you pizza nuts out there angelos was the worst russos on 101ave just east of lefferts bl. was better then frank & joe russo opened villa russo
Added: July 23, 2010

Submitted by Comments:
Robert (Bob) Koenig
From: Hoschton, Georgia
E-mail: sprucecrk@earthlink.net
I grew up after being born in Jamaica at 92-18 102nd Street. Was a 1954 graduate of RHHS and married my sweetheart Orene from Ozone Park. My family were members of Pilgrim Cong Church. My wife and I recently celebrated our 55th wedding anniversary.
During high school I worked for Dahmens Florist on Jamaica Avenue. We lived around the corner from the Bond Bakery and every once in a while went to the back door of the place and the worker flipped us a HOT bread. Boy was that ever good.
Added: July 23, 2010

Submitted by Comments:
Joann DeTommaso
From: Florida
E-mail: pfigurito@cfl.rr.com
I graduated from St. Teresa of Avila, in 73. It's located on 111th Ave. & 130th St. Across the street was Kip's Drug Store & Abe's Candy store.
I remember Mrs. Sinnot as the school secretary. There was a Dan's Supermarket diagonally from there & right on 126 & 111 was Anne's Candy store, the fish market, Gus & John's Deli, the beer & soda distributor, & a card shop.
I don't see anyone's name in here that I went to school with, but just maybe somewhere down the line that will change. I lived on 126th st. & 115th ave. I come from a family of 4 other sisters & 5 brothers.
Reading some comments posted, I remember certain things growing up. My dad belonged to the American Legion on Rockaway Blvd. across from Stallone's Bakery & St. Anthony's. They used to have a bizaar there in the empty lot across the street. But also remember someone mentioning the parades. My dad marched every year, and one year one of my older sisters marched as Miss Liberty. She must've been about 10-12 yrs. old. Not positive. I also remeber the lumber yard further down Rockaway, i think like 134th st. or something like that.
I was just there for my mom's 85th b'day, visited the old neighborhood & seen how so much has changed. As time goes on, and we grow older and go are able to revisit the past, it's just incredible how dramatic those changes can be.
Well, I do look forward to meeting up with someone I know, but if not, maybe one of you will remember some of the things I remember & share. Thanks!
Added: July 23, 2010

Submitted by Comments:
Richie Schmidt
From: Boynton Beach FL
E-mail:
To Matt W.:
Being younger, and a generation apart with probably the only thing in common being 123st/95ave, it's no surprise that you wouldn't specifically remember me. Our age group was closer to that of the younger Rohr, Tommy.
We knew your group, though. Good that you get to see them once a year.
Added: July 22, 2010

Submitted by Comments:
mark w young
From: baton rouge la
E-mail: cocozak1@aol.com
art bornschein:
the question is yes the best pizza was angelos from 1955 to 1965; scar around his neck was from a wound during WWII either fighting for the italians or the americans. sometimes he wore a bandana and some times he did not.
and the reason why he opened late in the afternoon is because he had a gambling problem horse racing. always at the big A, this was before otb.
Added: July 22, 2010

Submitted by Comments:
Chris Smith
From: Floral Park, New York
E-mail: csmith9@nyc.rr.com
Bill Heaney,
You might be interested in my posting on October 27, 2008. It is about Sgt. Schaefer. Unfortunately I can't find the magazine.
Added: July 22, 2010

Submitted by Comments:
tom feldman
From: illinois
E-mail:
vince-
you forgot Tommy Ivo (used to park his dragster at 108th street & Atlantic ave); maybe he lived there, I don't know.
I think I broke in to his business when I was 7. I recall being lifted and shoved through a partly open window one night to retrieve something the older guys had tossed in. No guard dog, fortunately.
Added: July 21, 2010

Submitted by Comments:
Robert Jones
From: Va
E-mail: rev047@aol.com
Looking for old friends from 97th ave and 125th st.
Added: July 20, 2010

Submitted by Comments:
ken snyder
From: florida
E-mail: kennbtkn@aol.com
in regards to joe schafer the war hero:
when he came home he was given a massive parade all along jamaica ave and up 102st. i think he lived north of jamaica ave on 102st. we lived on 102st just before park lane south.
he sat on the top seat of this large touring car and waved to everyone. he was our home town hero. my father knew joe, living in the 1930 & 1940s in richmond hill you knew every one for blocks around.
Added: July 20, 2010

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

Art B.:
Art, I wish I was up there, I would love to treat you to a slice. LOL. Bob Sheppard, another great reason why the Hill is so awesome. We continue to surprise. I wish it was 1960 all over again.
Hope everyone's having a great summer. As a Vietnam vet, I salute our SOLDIER in the park.
Added: July 20, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Matt Wasilefsky
From: Phoenix Arizona
E-mail: mattwasilefsky@cox.net

To Richie Smith:
Yes that was the group. We also had Paul Rohr and Steve Seyster in our group. There were some great stickball games. I know we challenged the 122nd street gang. Greg Rantenella, Vinnie, and Chris Bonomo. Some good time.
I can't say I remember you but the name is familiar. I still see all those guys about once a year.
Added: July 19, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
John Samuels
From: Wheeling, West Virginia
E-mail: john_samuels2@msn.com

Have found a JAHN'S menu with an address of Rego Park, NY.
Menu is fantastic - Broiled Roumanian Tenderloin steak $1.75; Veal Cutlet Parmigianne $1.49... just to quote a few.
Thought you might be interested.
Added: July 18, 2010


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

It's always a pleasure to check on the Richmond Hill page.
A topic I see a lot of comments on this time is pizza. I don't remember if it was Carlos or Tommies pizza at Lefferts blvd & Liberty ave. Always enjoyed it there, but I also have fond memories of Aldo's pizza on 118 St and Atlantic ave. But then someone mentioned New Park pizza over on Crossbay blvd. Now that stirred up some memories. It reminded me of racing out past the first bridge. That certainly was a place to see some incredible muscle cars. And then there was the Big Bow Wow. I haven't thought about that place in years.
Crossbay blvd as I recall pretty much got too hot for racing after Billy Lapaglia split his 69 Ford Torino into 2 or 3 pieces after wrapping it around a tree at 100+ MPH. We even had our share of racing on Atlantic Ave from the 121 St light to around the middle of Smokey park. The trick was to shut it down before ya got to the curve.
Guys like Artie Risdell better known as Rip, Tommy Layden, Bobby La Curto, Billy Filasky, and lets not forget Roger Auglieri AKA Roger Mustang.
We definetly had some serious motor heads in the neighborhood. Definetly a colorful place to grow up.
Added: July 18, 2010


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

I also had the privlege of knowing of Joe Schaefer as his sister was in my class at Holy Child.
Her name was Virginia and she brought his congressional medal into school for us to see, that was back in 1945 and it left quite an impression on all of us as I still remeber it as though it was yesterday.
We should always be proud of our heroes such as Joe for the freedom we have enjoyed in this country.
Added: July 17, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Dennis R. Foster
From: Carmel, CA
E-mail: drfoster@redshift.com

I have had occasion to meet, know, and/or see in person a number of famous American men. Only two of those men, Bob Sheppard and Douglas Fairbanks, Jr., stand out in memory as having been remarkably eloquent, dapper, and dignified.
Back in 1967 I was invited by Lenny Neubauer, a friend from Richmond Hill High School, to play half-court basketball with him and other faculty members at John Adams High School. Our first game had just gotten underway when a silver-haired man in his fifties, who was nattily attired in a blue blazer, gray trousers, white shirt and tie, appeared on the sideline.
By virtue of his striking presence and deportment, I was quickly under the impression he was a rather substantial and important person. He stayed to watch the game for a time while he spoke quietly on the sideline with another faculty member. After the end of play, as I was changing back into street clothes with the other players inside the health education office, I heard a voice which sounded like that of someone I knew. Upon turning around I saw the nameless man who I had seen earlier in the gym. I was perplexed. I don't know this fellow, I thought, so how is it I know his voice?
Lenny saw the confused look on my face. He said, "That's Bob Sheppard... the announcer at Yankee Stadium." I looked once more at Mr. Sheppard, and said, "Aha! So that's what he looks like." Thus one of the great mysteries of my childhood had been solved.
Added: July 15, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Richie Schmidt
From: Boynton Beach FL
E-mail: trscreative@aol.com

To Matt W. -
Would your "group" with Joe Sica also include Joe Cutrone (who posts here on occasion) Joe Tusa, Debbie & Lorraine, Al Cimaglia, Pat Carmbody, etc? It was 123rd St. and I and my "gang" were the younger kids there on the block.
We all thought of you guys as the cool older teens. I suppose we were the pain-in-the-ass kids, but I do remember we had some classic "battle of the age groups" games in stick and whiffle ball.
Added: July 15, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Sal Barcia
From: Floral Park
E-mail: sbarcia_meta@yahoo.com

I often travel around the country for work where on occasion I draw attention and sometimes derisive comments for my NY accent.
What a great thing to learn that the most revered and respected public address announcer in the history of sport, a man known for his precise enunciation and use of vocabulary, is in fact a Richmond Hill native. I'm sorry I didn't have him as a teacher at John Adams or at St. John's University.
Learning only now that he was a Richmond Hill native, and a fellow native of 110th Street no less, I can go forward with confidence knowing I too can pronounce all syllables of a word correctly, especially the consonants NY'ers are so famous for dropping. RIP Mr. Sheppard - you were a treasure to NY, and Richmond Hillites are proud of our native son.
Added: July 15, 2010


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

Dennis Doyle,
I see you added the yankee announcer to famous people, well theres one missing... his name is Joe Schaffer and they dedicated a statue up in jackson pond to this hero... he won the congressional medal of honor during world war two... along with a host of other medals... he was the most decorated mitilary man from our town...
he used to bartend at my place your place on 110 st and jamaica ave... see if you can add this hero to your list...
I met him a few times, great guy...
Added: July 14, 2010


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

Paul La Vecchia:
In response to your offer, I'm going out tonight for pizza, I'll be needing you credit card #. I'll wait until then. Thanks, Art
Matt Wasilefsky:
Didn't want to get into the "pizza" fray, but, as you mentioned, Angelo's was the best for me. Maybe because it was directly across the street from my apartment building on 101 (Jerome) Ave.
Burned the skin off of the roof of my mouth many times there. I still picture him clearly in my mind (Angelo) with his half ear or ears. (Never did ask him what happened to them).
Added: July 14, 2010


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

Bob Shepherd, Yankee announcer, lived on 110th Street between 107 and 109 avenues.
In fact, in the mid 40's i lived upstairs in his mothers two family house which was probably the third or fourth house from 107 Avenue on the even numbered side.
He was a speech teacher in John Adams HS in the late 50's and taught my friend, Bob Good, how to overcome his stutter. He was also an English teacher part of the time. He'll be missed.
Added: July 13, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
TOM BLANK
From: MORICHES NY
E-mail:

It was good to get some answers on my note.
I lived on 133 where 103 met Liberty, 2nd house in. Went to PS 55 and PS 57, then to St Pius in So Jamaica.
My father was bartender in Bauman's Bar and Grill. We also lived in an Apt. behind McCourt and Trudden Funeral Home which was across the street on opposite corner from Library.
My cousin Artie and wife had a storefront rest about 2 doors down from Library for a while. McCabes lived over drug store and Priest across street over a store, Gunn lived on Jerome Ave and 132 and when I was there Horns lived over Baumans.
My cousins played ball for the Atomics and the Royals.
Added: July 13, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Matt Wasilefsky
From: Phoenix Arizona
E-mail: mattwasilefsky@cox.net

To Art Bornschien
That gun event at the Benzinos deffinitely stands out in my mind. He actually shot a stray bullet through our house window which the detectives came and picked up.
Mike Sicas younger brother Joe hung out in our group and I still see him every year or so. His brother Mike lives out in Suffolk County.
I see everyone has been discussing the best pizza, perhaps you remember angelos pizza restaurant on 101st avenue between 124th and 125th street. That was the absolute best pizza in New York. As I recall the restaurant would open late afternnons.
To Barb. Thanks for the memory comment. It is amazing how much old stuff I remember and new stuff I forgot.
Added: July 13, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Robert Sheridan
From: Austin, TX
E-mail:
And proud to add Bob Sheppard was a product of St. John's Prep in Bed-Stuy (as I am).
Added: July 12, 2010

Submitted by Comments:
Yeon Lee
From: Kew Gardens
E-mail:
I recently moved to Kew Gardens and truly enjoy the neighborhood. I was trying to get further information about the neighborhood and found this website. After reading the history provided here I am very thankful for finding your information. Not only did I find out about how Kew Gardens is connected to Richmond Hill but I also learned about Maple Grove Cemetery which I do not live too far from. I had no idea of its past and it is incredible how this cemetery helped in the creation of Kew Gardens.
Thank you for your Historical Society website!
Added: July 12, 2010

Submitted by Comments:
Dennis Doyle
From: Richmond Hill, NY
E-mail: webmaster@richmondhillhistory.org
Mary Johnson:
Thank you for sharing the information regarding Bob Sheppard. I did not know he was born and raised in Richmond Hill. I placed him in our list of Noteworthy People from Richmond Hill and compiled this webpage about him.
Added: July 12, 2010

Submitted by Comments:
mary johnson
From: Long Branch NJ
E-mail: mjohnson@pershing.com

Hello All! Hope the summer is turning out well for everyone.
I just wanted to comment on the passing of legendary Bob Sheppard. I never knew he was a Richmond Hill person having been born there in 1910. And he taught at one time in my old alma mater, John Adams High School. But he was there and left many years before I went to the school.
What a career and a life he had! A life well lived! Have a great day everyone. Regards Mary
Added: July 12, 2010


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

Tom Blank,
I knew all your buddies but I don't remember you. I was delivery boy for LoBue Brothers grocery. The candy store next to the library was Larino's (sp?), Janie's family. Ray Horn was closer to my age. We carpooled to the Brooklyn Navy Yard with John Moran.
Added: July 11, 2010


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

Are you people kidding me, I lived up the block from Connie's pizza for 20 years. Although pretty good, was far from the best. Steve's on Jam. ave. near 111th st. was by far the best.
I've eaten pizza at most of the places mentioned. New park was also outstanding. But there were so many great ones in Queens. Astoria, were my wife is from also has great pies.
Everyone tonite go out have a slice on me. LOL. P.S. Connie's burnt quite few also.
Added: July 11, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
john trainor
From: northport ny
E-mail: islraven@yahoo.com

Tom Blank,
I remember two of the names you mention & I used to live on 131st St just off Liberty, having moved there from Manhattan in 1953. Bobby Gunn would hang out at a candy store on Liberty a few doors from 131st St. My older brother & he didn't get along and duked it out one day, but in time came to peaceful terms. Dougie Horn went to John Adams about the time I did, always a popular guy, always fun and upbeat. He passed away quite some time ago.
There was a grocery store on the corner, a library a block away, the Lefferts movie theater was near, and PS 121 an easy walk from our house. Everything you needed in that one nice area. Good luck and health to you.
Added: July 10, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Bob Wood
From: Irmo, South Carolina
E-mail:

So much talk about pizza.
Anyone remember Maureen Cummings or Betsy Forey? Went to school at Mary Louis with my sister, Alice Wood, now living in Atlanta.
Is Our Lady of Wisdom still functioning? Obviously been a long time, leaving 114-11 86th Avenue in 1957. Oh, HCJ for eight years before my father retired and moved to Miami.
Added: July 10, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Richie Weis
From: Patchogue NY
E-mail: Romeowisk@aol.com

Damn I grew up in richmond hill 1968-1985, went to PS 55, JHS 226, then RHHS.
My grandprents lived on 130 St between Liberty and 103 Ave for 35 years. Remember Swifts, Labue's, Pinincis... sorry about the spelling.
Added: July 10, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
TOM BLANK
From: MORICHES NY
E-mail: TOMGENIE@aol.com

I grew up in RH until 1951 when we moved to LI.
I am writing this in memory of 4 of my best buddies Rich McCabe, Doug Horn, Bobby Priest, and Bobby Gunn who have passed on. Also my four cousins George, Bob and Eddie Blank, and Artie Brooks. All from between 130th and 132nd Streets and Liberty Ave.
RIP. I know they have a good Ballteam in Heaven.
Added: July 9, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Sheryl Maldonado
From: Hawley, Pennsylvania
E-mail:

If you traveled a little west, over to the corner of Woodhaven Blvd. and Jamaica Ave., you would come to the best pizza place ever... Carlos pizza.
Added: July 9, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Richie Schmidt
From: Boynton Beach FL
E-mail: trscreative@aol.com

Hello Richmond Hillers past & present.
Been reading posts for sometime now and first time posting today. Mostly because I have to nominate Carlos Pizza (Lefferts & Liberty) as a contender for best pizza.
Good to see old friends names and posts. Great stories of the past.
Added: July 9, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Bob Winter
From: Huntington Beach, CA
E-mail:

To my fellow pizza lovers -
I have eaten at both Connie's and Tommy's. Both excellent pizza, a little different in flavor. TOP TWO FOR SURE.
Any other votes? Eat at Connies after a HJC CYO baseball game wins with Mr. G. When I got older eat at Tommy's on Liberty downstairs from the Pool Hall. Anyone?????
Added: July 9, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Bob Winter
From: Huntington Beach, CA
E-mail:

To Robert Sheridan:
Your right about the pizza place in Seal Beach. That is the only good pizza in CA. I eat there at least every other week. Not far from my house.
The actually name is a Slice of New York in Seal Beach.
Added: July 9, 2010


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

Best Pizza...
have to say it isin't in richmond hill... its in howard beach, and its still there today... new park pizza... biggest slices and best pies around... still today...
Added: July 9, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Maureen Connelly Cahill
From: Sun City Hilton Head
E-mail:

Hank Michel,
Just realized it was not Sister Rose Gerald, but Sister Joan Ida that I had in 8th grade. Mind is going fast!!
Added: July 9, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Maureen Connelly Cahill
From: Sun City Hilton Head
E-mail:

Hank Michels,
I remember one of the nuns you spoke about. Believe it was Sister Rose Geraldine (not Gerald). Sister Rose Geraldine was from Ireland & was my 8th grade teacher.
I wanted desperately to go to Dominican Commercial H.S., but was the type who would get so nervous taking the test & I didn't make it. She told me to write them a letter telling them how much I wanted to attend the school. I did & a little while later I received an acceptance to the school.
Added: July 9, 2010


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

Carmine Coletti,
My wife was a regular at Jahn's Richmond Hill, and sadly we know why it closed, I grew up in Flushing on Main Street in the 50s and early 60s.
You say Jahn's opened up on Main Street, don't you mean Chang's!
Added: July 9, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Vin Smith
From: Saugerties NY
E-mail: vlsmithfam@aol.com

Carlos was the best pizza, that I remember.
Liberty and 117th I think. It was there long before Tommy's.
Added: July 8, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
robert staab
From: orange county
E-mail:

with out a doubt Connie's had the best pizza, Jamicia Ave on 107th to 108th Street.
I would go in the kitchen as a kid and see all the food being prep'd. hahaha we wouldn't eat it now, but he had the best back then. Jamaica Ave 102nd to 111th Streets, the best ever.
Added: July 8, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Dougie Flynn
From: L I N Y
E-mail:

Hands down- Tommy's Pizzeria on 118st and Liberty.
Added: July 8, 2010


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

To: Matt Wasilefsky
I lived on 125 St. & 101 Ave. I worked for "Kay-Dek" from 1961-62, as did Paul "Shaldanot". I went to RHHS with Mike Sica, but don't recognize any of the other names.
Also, I "DO" remember the Benzinos (Beverley) and the time her brother held off the cops, at their house, with a rifle.
Added: July 8, 2010


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

To Matt Wasilefsky--
I remember some of the names you mentioned! There was Irene Coleman on the corner of 124th and 95th Ave. The Flynns lived one or two houses away-- I went to school with Noreen Flynn. I remember two Dumrouf girls-- think their names were Fran and Barbara.
My aunt and uncle lived on 124th St-- Al and Agnes Hank. If any of them visit this site I hope they'll write in and let us know where life has taken them.
You have a really good memory, Matt!
Added: July 7, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Robert Sheridan
From: Austin, TX
E-mail:

To Bob Winter:
Try New York Pizza (I think that's the name) on Main St in Seal Beach. Down about a half mile on left from PCH. Not bad.
Don't confuse it with another almost next door.
Added: July 7, 2010


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

Rick Ohle, wow theres a name, yes I remember you, boys club, softball at richmond hill in the summer.
Your brother John and I swam together on holy child swim team... remember a guy named Jerry Murtha, and Gene O'Brien, both were on my relay and we took third in the olympics... lol
you had a brother Billy as well... my mom and your mom bowled together in the rosary society...
and Bobby Sheridan, now I remember you, you were good friends with Ernie Pericas, I lived across the street from them... and Billy Costalino, and Ernie and myself use to hang out on 109st all the time... wow names from the past... have to think way back to remember...
Bobby Sheridan I remember one time we went to jamaica shopping, and when we came back you put your hand in the richmond hill saving bank night deposit and pulled out a 20 dollar bill... 20 dollars was alot of money back then... lol
Added: July 7, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Carmine Coletti
From: Glen Oaks NY
E-mail: carminecoletti@aol.com

I grew up in Flushing and when a Jahn's opened up on Main Street, that was huge news.
My wife and I described the Richmond Hill Jahn's to our daughter just the other day. Sadly she will never know the thrill of going to Jahn's. Some things should really last forever.
Thank You John Jahn!!
Added: July 6, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Hank Michel
From: Georgetown Texas
E-mail: Hank@bighank.com

It is gratifying to read how much RH was appreciated by everyone. I too had a blast there.
I haven't seen many comments from HCJ classmates of 1957. We had some great nuns, Sr. Juan Ita, Sr. Rose Gerald, Sr. Joseph Patrive, Sr. Consuella, and more. I stayed friends with Sr. Joseph Patrice until her death a few years ago. What an inspiring and wonderful woman. We named our daughter after her.
I don't even hear too many comments about Uncle Ralph at Glenn's. I worked there several years as his counterpart after working many years at the Hofbrau.
There were so many great memories from both places. I hope everyone has a great summer.
Added: July 6, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Bob Winter
From: Huntington Beach, CA
E-mail:

OK! I guess everyone has their own opinion on where Richmond Hill statrs and stops. So let's move on ---
What was the best pizza place and who had the best pizza? Have fun with this one, since I'm out here in California now and only found 2 good pizza places, but not New York Pizza.
Added: July 5, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Matt Wasilefsky
From: Phoenix Arizona
E-mail: mattwasilefsky@cox.net

The comments on the South Queens Boys Club brought back memeories, I too was a member and remember the bowling alley in the basement.
You had to press down the lever and metal rods would pop up for you to set the pins. Quite frequently someone would leave the rods up and than the bowler would throw the ball and get a big thunk sound and nothing would happen. Needless to say there were a lot of bent rods from this.
Lets hear more from the 124th and 123rd street and 95th ave people. It was great growing up there.
We had the Colemans, Flynns, Sicas, Britenbachs, Walshs, Carmody, Jasiaks, Sheldonats, and across the streets you had then Benzionos, Dumrouf,s Dockpwits, and the KEY DEK factory.
Anyone remember any of this?
Added: July 5, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Mary H Price
From: Ireland
E-mail: moiragannaire@yahoo.co.uk

Hi, I am hoping to make contact with my relatives.
My fathers uncle David McDonald lived in Richmond Hill in the 1950's, and was married to a German woman. He worked as a bus driver. His son is also called David and visited our family in 1955, he was 16 at the time making him approx 71 now.
My father, Joey Price, was in the USA in 1974 and looked for this family but couldn't find them in Richmond Hill.
Any help would really be appreciated, we have very few relatives on this side of the family and would love to make contact. Thank you so much.
Added: July 5, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
linda hammer
From: ozone pk
E-mail: lfoy0003@charter.net

live in mo. now.
I remember Lennihans, the Red Den, and McGowans. tended bar at the Jagermeister, and Red Den.
Added: July 3, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Rick Ohle
From: Los Angeles
E-mail: Aquaticz@att.net

Hello All, I wanted to respond to those that wrote:
For Connie Russo- I remember you. I was a toe head until I was about 31, then I had kids, need I say more… LOL. It stayed blonde until I was in my forties & now a light brown with (oh my) gray highlights.
Connie thank you so much for mentioning all those people (Arthur D'Alessio, Anna Trieste, Joan Yee, Jack Inzetta, Anna Paolella, Kay Annunziato, Tony Spoto, Linda Piccoli, James Palazzolo, Maria Malta, Sue Caracciolo). Once I shook off the dust off my memory I remember them all. They were all a part of my life growing up, going to school at Holy Child Jesus & later at RHHS. Can you believe we had up to about 60 kids in a class!
Do you keep in touch with them? I dated Kay for a while in HS, in fact she was my date for the Prom. The kids found an old prom photo many years ago which they gave me a hard time about (don't all kids). I still have it.
WE had a hell of a prom! We went to the Top of the 666's and saw Glenn Miller & his band. What a show & what a memory. Then we went to see Rodney Dangerfield, where old Rodney knew a beauty when he saw one, he had Kay sitting in his lap in no time and was making jokes about me in front of the whole place… on stage. Side bar: Dustin Hoffman dam near did the same when I worked at Cinema 1. Then as I recall a trip to the Staten Island Ferry followed by a day at the beach. I also remember sleeping for day's afterward.
Those were the days – thanks for reminding me. I was just looking at names here on the guest book and remember many of you. I suppose that is because I am in the middle of my siblings. The oldest is 5 years older than me and the youngest 5 years younger. Bill Heaney, Richie Newel, Ken Ball, Paul La Vecchia (Hi Paul), Bill Mahan, Dennis Doyle of course, Sheryl Maldonado, Anne Marie Kujawski (Hello), Bob Rainis, you have a sister I went to school with Jeanne think, you lived down the block from us), Michael LaMarca, McDunna & Tom Feldman.
I think it is time to break out the old graduation photos's. Anyone remember Sister Ann Michell? How about Sister Regina Margret? Miss Sack's.
I also read about Glenn's and Ralph the bartender. He served my folks their first drink as a couple, he also served me my first drink. My uncles woked at the Triangle. I worked a Cameo pet shop as did both my brothers Steve & John. I also worked at Jahn's (cutting the cream, dressing it, worked the counter & occasionally the grill. Lots of memories there. I also set up tables with a friend named Mitch for Bingo next door at the RKO after it's glory days' were over. Anyone remember the vaudeville acts at the Sat afternoon show at the RKO? The roller Rink on Hillside Ave ( I think) The 4 th of July... LOL. now that was a holiday!
Anyone remember the bottle rocket wars in the HS yard? When we were really out of hand we used roman candles to shoot at the other side. Then there was the annual trip to NY ChinaTown to get the goods. I think everyone knew we were selling them because we would fill a trash can (those silver wire ones) with mats of fire crackers. What we did to that poor building... Climbed all over it to retrieve handballs and the like.
Once we stole the keys and all the gym equipment just before school started. Murray Stockfedder called each of us by name into his office the first day of school. He wanted to know cough, cough... if we could see to it that the stuff was retuned including the keys, should we happen to know who did it. That guy was great. He and the gym teachers who worked summers in the school yard & taught me a lot.
We lived across the street from the HS yard on 113th and 89th Ave since I was years old. I have not seen a game of stick ball since I was 17. Best Johnny on the Pony games in the HS yard & at the Boy's Club on Atlantic Ave. I spent a lot of time at both places as a young boy and early teenager.
I am glad I left RH when I did but I shall never forget what a place it was. Richmond Hill was a slice of Americana. Where the air was clean, you could smell the trees and say hello to neighbors. They were either going to or coming from Jamaica Ave. Neighbors watched out for all of us (sometimes good sometimes not).
I have a great story about Forest Park and the time my brothers and I borrowed a few horses and took them HOME. I'll write about that another time... I told Dennis Doyle the story lately & he cracked up. This is long enough for now.
Thanks to all of you for a trip down memory lane. I have been talking with my wife & although I am not a good writer she thinks I should write down all I remember. Ummmmm I said what about the statue of limitations. Sal the cop may come looking for me. Regards to you, Rick Ohle
Added: July 3, 2010


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

Grew up in Richmond Hill on 102st by Forest Park.
Went to Holy Child Jesus school and graduted in 1958. Went to Molloy after that and graduated in 1962. Loved the experience and have met a lot of old friends in the past but want to see if anybody else has turned up. I loved everthing about Richmond Hill. It was so special and taught us so much about life.
Loved the old Glenn's, Salerno's, Jahns, and Westfalls. We were married in Westfalls 40 years ago. My Wife, Carol Ann, lived down the street!! It was a great time to live in Richmond Hill and I love this site which brings back so many memories.
Going back to LI for a wedding and I have to take a trip to the old Church (Holy Child) which is celebrating 100 years this year. Anybody who remembers the McNerney's, Devine's, Claro's, from that time period please let us know. I still think about PS.66, the Holy Child gym, Mr. G, Mr. Ring, and Artie Beyer. It was so cool to live there and remember how special that time was.
I try to expain that to my California friends and they don't relate. After 33 years I still have my accent and I love it!!
Added: July 3, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Robert Sheridan
From: Texas
E-mail:

Am proud to say I did a stint as a pin boy at the bowling alleys at the Atlantic Ave Boys Club. Do I ever date myself when I tell people that!
May have done that with Ernie Pericas (RIP) from 109th St.
Added: July 2, 2010


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

Hi Dougie,
Thank you for your comment, you made my day. I remember all the other names as well, Chris Wolf, John Godsell, and Pat Devitt. Please tell them you heard from me and please tell them to e-mail me if they like it would be great to hear from them.
The Boy's Club was a great place. I think of my job there and everyone often. Unfortunately, I'm not on Facebook. I'll be sure to tell Paul you said hello. Him and his family moved to Colorado about 6 years ago. He really likes it there. He checks out this site once in a while. I'm sure if he sees your post he'll reply.
In the meantime when I speak to him I'll tell him you were asking for him. Thanks Doug for writing back. Thanks for remembering me. You made my day. All the best. --Tony
Added: July 2, 2010


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

John Brownne - Sometimes.
Is John Brownne your REAL name??? Yes, when it would get really windy I would have to run home, comb my hair see that it was OK only to go out in the wind again!! -Dougie
Added: July 2, 2010


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

Tony Parlmisano-
Johnny Kestel and I got a good laugh after reading your post and commenting about the "Intermediate Game Room". Now that brings back some memories.
I don't know if you go on Facebook but they have a page called "I was a member of the South Queens Boys Club" with some old photo' s posted on it. I recognize some old faces and there is one of John D'agnese as well. Take care, Dougie
Added: July 1, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Maria T. Mirabile (nee Catalanotto) (Giannone)
From: Valley Stream, NY
E-mail: redwine@optonline.net

Looking for classmates from St. Mary Gate of Heaven '1967.
Linda Forster, MaryAnn Smith, Donna Stillo, Susan Chiddo, Thomas Barcia, Thomas Fusaro...
Added: July 1, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
john brownne
From: queens
E-mail:

dougie flynn is it true you would run home and fix your hair?
Added: June 30, 2010


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

Hi Anthony,
I remember you. You were a great guy. I remember your brother Paul too. You were the only guy that worked the front desk and would let me in if I forgot my card. I think Ozzie and a few others worked it too. Ozzie would see me everyday and if I forgot my card he would say "You can't get in".
I'm going to Mike Kestel's house in 2 weeks and Castillo, Pat Devitt, Cris Wolf, John Godsell, and the Kestel Brothers will all be there. I'll be sure to foward your regards.
Also say hello to Paul for me. I remember going to the Annex with him and another student set me up and told me he liked to be called "Paulie" so I said to him "Hey, Paulie Paulie! What's up Paulie "Well he got so mad because he thought I was being a wiseguy (I guess I was not realizing) and he wanted to BRAWL! I had to calm him down by telling him I was just kidding with him.
After that I thought "Don't mess with Paul Parmisano". The things we remember.
Added: June 30, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Anthony Palmisano
From: Lynbrook, NY
E-mail: anthony.palmisano@ca-cib.com

Hi Dougie,
This is Tony Palmisano and I worked the front desk and the intermediate game room at the Boys Club. I remember you and all the people you mentioned, Mike Costillo, the Kestels, and Joe Aqualina.
I passed the club some time last year and saw that the pool is gone. I couldn't believe it. I remember all of us raising money and literally helping dig the hole for the pool. Would like to hear from any one from the Boys Club. I started working there after school at 13. Then became a member of the Mens Club.
I have a lot of great memories and some sad ones too especially that April 1981. Thanks... Tony Palmisano
Added: June 29, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
mike hedler
From: ten.
E-mail:

How I remember those days.
They were a special part of my life & I cherish those memmories, also the track meets and all the sports we played, the old crowd.
Added: June 28, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Grace Boll Ilasi
From: Elmont
E-mail: brandigrac@verizon.net

Would like to hear from anyone who went to P.S 108, in Ozone Park, Queens, in the 1960's.
Added: June 27, 2010


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

Jennifer Espinoza- Did you have a brother named George?
Added: June 27, 2010


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

Chris Glasser, I know you remember me.
I was Timmy Murphy's best friend growing up and still am to this day. I saw your post about Cammi Farrell and thought of my trip to the Dominican Republic last Dec. Unbeknownst to me, her brother George was sitting next to me in the Hotel restaurant! I didn't even recognize him. My friend did.
I hadn't seen George since '75 when we graduated from SBJL. We caught up for awhile and I also inquired about Cammi. She was a real sweetheart and I remember how her ears would stick out slightly because she always wore her hair in a pony-tail.
She has lived in Colorado close to 30 years now. I think she went to school there and stayed. She's been married for years and has a family and is doing quite well according to George who still lives in Queens by the way. Take care -Dougie.
Added: June 27, 2010


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

Rick Ohle, I remember you from the Boy's Club.
You were a "Monitor " weren't you? I actually still keep in touch with guys like Mike Castillo, The Kestel Bros. Joey Aqualina to name a few. I think your friends were the Cinelli Bros. Pete Werner, the Haggerty's .
The Club is still there and I'm sure that you must of heard of the tragedy that befelled it's staff back in '81.
Added: June 27, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Sal Barcia
From: Floral Park
E-mail: sbarcia_meta@yahoo.com

No offense to you purists who are debating the jagged boundaries of Richmond Hill, but for me at least, living on one of those boundaries where the adjacent backyard was in Ozone Park, I always felt that I was living dead center in Richmond Hill - if not the center of the universe.
As an adult, I can see the larger and grander Victorians approaching Park Lane South, but as a child I thought of them as inferior to the center of my universe.
Reading this site, and receiving e-mails from newly discovered old friends (thanks to this site and Classmates.com) the common lamentation is how much the neighborhood has changed.
Thanks to this website, a few minutes allows me to return to a Richmond Hill perfectly intact - with kids wondering if one person could consume (or afford) a kitchen sink at Jahns, where the bakery crumb buns are perfect, and where baking Italian bread never smelled better.
I know Glenn's is long gone, but I imagine Ralph the bartender limping around - either crusty or friendly depending on his mood (mostly friendly), and where friends would be waiitng to welcome you in your favorite schoolyard.
Think hard enough, and you can almost smell the acrid scent of fireworks still hovering in the air on July 5th. No matter which corner (or center) of Richmond Hill you lived in, summer was certainly to me the best time. "A" train to Rockaway Beach anyone?
Added: June 26, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Paul La Vecchia
From: Delray Beach, FL.
E-mail: Dodgerman25@yahoo.com

Everyone can check this site under maps and click walking tour. (Victorian R.H.)
It shows North R.H. and Kew Gardens. That's the general area we hung out. Of course area 3 is the main site of 108th and PLS.
Does anyone remember the Rich-Haven LL. It started in 1958 and is now W.O.R.K.S LL. We played most of our games at Smoky Park 124th & Atlantic by LIRR tracks. The rest in Highland Park in Brooklyn. Right on Jamaica ave. Played until 1963 in Youth League. 13-15 yrs old.
This league is 52 yrs old they wrote us up in Long Island Press, Daily News amd NY Mirror, etc. I can't believe there isn't anyone else who played in the league back in the late 50's, early sixties.
We paraded up and down Jamaica Ave, from Woodhaven 76th St, all the way to Woodhaven Blvd with our uniforms on. What memories.
Added: June 25, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
John Parnti
From: Mastic, NY
E-mail: jjaypare1@optonline.net

I hope this clears up the confusion, as copied from richmondhillny.com:
"Richmond Hill borders the Van Wyck Expressway to the East, 109th Avenue to the South, 101st Street to the West, and Metropolitan and Hillside Avenues to the North.
Atlantic Avenue is the division between North and South Richmond Hill. North Richmond Hill Zipcode is 11418 South Richmond Hill Zipcode is 11419.
Richmond Hill borders the communities of:
Kew Gardens to the North,
Briarwood to the Northeast,
Jamaica to the East,
South Ozone Park to the South,
Ozone Park to the Southwest,
Woodhaven to the West,
Forest Park, Glendale and Forest Hills to the Northwest."
Added: June 25, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
John Santino
From: Queens, NY
E-mail:

if any of you are losing sleep out there re: what neighborhood you grew up in, may I suggest checking your zip code.
I think that's one thing the U.S. post office got right... maybe not.
Added: June 25, 2010


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

as far as the "boundary dispute" is concerned:
it really depends on your point of view. I have seen Liberty Avenue (at 111th Street) where my parents had the C&F Bar&Grill listed on maps of Queens as Ozone Park.
Wow, maybe someone should have painted boundaries with flourescent paint and put up signs saying:
Achting! You are now leaving the Richmond Hill district of the greatest city the world!
Liberty Avenue will always be Richmond Hill to me, just as 115-46 117th Street where we lived until July of 1962 be South Ozone Park. That is according to MY point of view.
Added: June 25, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Paul La Vecchia
From: Delray Beach, FL.
E-mail: Dodgerman25@yahoo.com

Well I'm glad to see the feistyness of our alumni (ALL RICHMOND HILLITES) We all express our Love for the old place were everyone grew up in a REAL life.
We were so lucky yo enjoy a such a beautiful area growing up. I'll ALWAYS BE A HILLITE. A GREAT SUMMER TO ALL.
Added: June 25, 2010


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

Wow! Did I say something wrong, when I said "the real Richmond Hill"?
I can assure everyone that I meant no offense, but was simply trying to clarify my confusion as to why the vast majority of contributors to this forum seem to be from near the Liberty Avenue area of the Hill, and so very few from the north/east area! (that would be from Atlantic Avenue to Hillside/Metropolitan Avenues, and from Lefferts Blvd to Van Wyck Expressway), which is an authentic and valid part (if not perhaps the very Heart and Soul) of Richmond Hill! (here he goes again!) Jamaica did not start until you get to the east side of Van Wyck. Now, we have enough Border Issues in this country already, lets not slice up RH, okay.
Seriously though folks, I always was told that the area from Atlantic Avenue south to Liberty Ave. and from Lefferts to Van Wyck was called "Morris Park", but I was born in Richmond Hill Sanitorium in March 1943, and that was to the south and west of Atlantic and Lefferts!?, and to further add to my confussion, my Maternal Grandparents lived one block south of Atlantic Avenue off of 104th street (I believe it was 94th Ave) right next to the Bordens Milk factory, and that was always called Ozone Park!
Now, I realize I am in the minority here, doubley so, not only because I lived on Jamaica Avenue, but I think I'm one of the few people who write in, that never went to Holy Child Jesus school! (I don't have anything against Jesus, in fact I love Jesus, I just never went to school with Him!) I hope this explaination helps to smooth any feathers I may have inadvertently ruffled with my socially insensitive statement! Shalome.
Can anyone tell me how to get in touch with Carolyn (Weiss) Mathis, who would have graduated from John Adams HS @ '60 or '61, or her brothers Albert or Ritchie? I would loved to know how they are doing. And does anyone remember Earl McNamara who worked at King Kullen on Liberty Ave in the late fifties-early sixties?
Now here's a memory, walking along Atlantic Ave across from Smokey Park in the mid 50's knocking the Soot of the chain link fence that accumulated from the old steam locomotives.
Anyone else do that?
Added: June 24, 2010


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

To Robert Staab:
By saying "the abandoned tracks" I assume you meant the old LIRR Rockaway branch crossing 101 Ave. at 100 St. running north and south. Don't tell the people "there", that they don't live in Ozone Park, I mean "really" don't.
Added: June 24, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Bob Winter
From: Huntington Beach, CA
E-mail: bob.winter49@yahoo.com

Ok! I guess it did matter where you hung out.
The issue is the boardline, and I have to agree with Robert's desription of the boardlines of RH.
Added: June 24, 2010


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

favorite bars... Glenns and Regency Row.
Added: June 24, 2010


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

Paul: anyone who says there from richmond hill in the 60's and 70's hung out at the park...
it was home base... the pond the upper log and lower log... the parkie house and the woods... amazing how many kids would show up on a friday night to have a few cold ones, then onto a dance... lol, they came from all parts of town, north, south, east, west... and from all high schools... lol... have to laugh, but all of queens at that time knew of jackson pond...
and if you went down to the beach by way of hitching a ride at cross bay bulvard to 108st and onto fitzes and wards deli to buy your beer, and avoiding jerry erik and the woodside crowd... you would brag about going up to the park and partying... and in the winter it was off to jimmy byrns aka players... on northern blvd to party at 3.00 and all you could drink... damn was that a blast...
Added: June 24, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
John McKenna
From: West Hartford, CT
E-mail: JohnM@grmattorneys.com

I lived in Queens Village. SS Joachim & Anne Parish. I played in 1956 for the RH Saxons Baseball Team. Fond memories.
I remember Joe Bronzino, Roger Wyrondeck, and Vin Nolan. Sunday twin bills. And I remember Jahn's of course.
Added: June 24, 2010


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

To Robert Staab:
Hey - Watch it - Who r u calling OLD and with BAD MEMORIES. I would bet on anyone on this site to kick your *>> with any Memories of Richmond Hill, North, South, Up or Down.
Added: June 24, 2010


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

Robert S.: You too are also correct.
But were just talking of a small section of No. R.H. (For example) The People who lived near smokey park 124th and Atlantic ave rarely if ever visited Forest park. They had a park. I played little league ball (58-60) there. But there still Hillites. Anyway, everyone have a great summer.
Added: June 24, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Claudia (Elkowich) Nusu
From: Winchester VA
E-mail:

I grew up right across the street from PS 121.
My mom was the school crossing guard for St Theresa and then later PS 121. I went to John Adams HS graduate 1970. I too worked at Key Food. That is where I met my bestest friend Connie Russo. I remember Mr. Brandis, and yes he was a hunk.
I hung out at Al's Stereo, still in touch with Al and his wife Gloria. Loved the pizza at Liberty and Leffert's. There also was a great bakery right under the 'el'. Plus a bar across the way.
I remember hanging out on the street corner, though not too often my mom was real strick. I remember having to come home from playing (when I was real young) when the street light came on, when someone got a new car the whole block came out to look at it. Same if some kid pulled the fire alarm.
Our playground extended for blocks. Bassil park, Lincoln park (loved the swings and monkey bars), Alley pond, football games (I was a cheer leader) and the parades on Libery Ave. Lucky's backery also on Liberty had the best Italian ices and there was the Liberty Ave. library just down the road. There were two movie theatre's on Liberty, one before the 'el' and one under the 'el'.
I remember taking the train to Rockaway to bask in the sun and ride the rides at night. And the conduit where the older guys and some gal's would race their cars. I remember the local fish market, the card store, the toy store, the corner laundry mat, the Green and the Red line buses, Kresten the 5 and dime store, May's in Jamaica, green stamps, having to wear dresses to school, being pals with whoever could drive and had a car.
And now a days I'm happy for what I can remember and being able to get up without moaning. Thanks Connie I'm feeling alot older.
Added: June 24, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Robert Staab
From: orange county
E-mail:

It seems like most of the people involved in this format are old and have weak memories.
I am of the class of 1971 HCJ and loved RH. ok to the west the abandoned tracks, to the north park lane south, to the east Van Wyck and to the south Liberty. my father was NYFD and concers with me. SORRY
Added: June 23, 2010


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

Billy: You are also correct.
That's were most of us hung out. J. Pond. F. Park and the rest. I think you said you lived on 108-09 st never Jam. ave. So you know the real North R.H. Our real question was that the rest of R.H. was foreign to us in a way. But still awesome.
Any way I wish all of the people on this site could meet up at the Wall in the pond. (My second home) meet at the (The Soldier) for a drink. LOL.
Added: June 23, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
bob winter
From: huntington beach ca
E-mail:

As mentioned the whole border thing would create a debate.
AND yes there is a south and north richmond hill. Depending where you are standing on the VW you could be in Kew Gardens.
Added: June 22, 2010


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

hate to tell you all... but the real richmond hill was...
forest park... jackson pond 108st... home of the richmond hill wildman... upper log and lower log.... schafer beer, st bennies dances... chelis hall, the tremelos, jimmy loughlin, fat jack maple and his trustie dog sarge, then there was ox polker and his twin dickie bow, and a nut hondo halsey, there were the penner brothers, vinny shellhorn, the manzos, the finnerans, at least ten of them... the colters had 14 I think... the carneys had a buch as well... great town richmond hill... great kids... we had the dooleys from 109 st... the osborns from 110, the oconnors, heaneys, feldmans, fitzpatricks, mcguinnes, pericas, lamarcas, cahills, morans, washingtons, sharans, perettas, rollins, eaharts, patersons, nothing but kids, kids, kids... got to love richmond hill
Added: June 22, 2010


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

Richie Newell:
Yes our "Nations" was never a "gang" but a group of kids (Yea, we were actually teen-agers) that hung together and wouldn't let anyone push us around. We never looked for trouble. We were a close group.
Added: June 21, 2010


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

Johnny Celauro hit the nail virtually on the head.
Those boundries here quoted are pretty close to perfect. Forest Park was an exclusive area 95% of the people up there that we hung out with lived within those boundries. We also hung out a little in Kew Gardens, and played football up at Twin Lakes which is on the GSP. No one from JAMAICA ever hung w/us. They lived in obscurity in So. R.H.
Added: June 21, 2010


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

To: John Celauro,
You must have led a rather sheltered life in R.H., to think that the borders are, as you mentioned. The postal service has a different view and that is from Van Wyck Exp. to around 105th St., and Linden Blvd. to Hillside Ave.
There are two R.H. though, North and South. The dividing line would be Atlantic Ave. I was a R.H. "roamer" travelling north and south by foot and bike. Especially when I delivered telegrams.
The office was on Myrtle Ave. down the street from "The Keith's". (That's the RKO Keiths movie house, next to the ice cream parlor).
Added: June 21, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Bob Winter
From: CA
E-mail:

Let's all regroup here.
First of all The Nations was not a tough gang, but we could hold our own. They were a bunch of guys that hungout playing sports - stickball, slap ball, football, and if you had roller skates you played roller hockey in front of the Annex building. Yeah we got into fights but mostly one on one.
As for the boardline of Richmond Hill - JC is correct but you must include south of Smoky Park and north of Mytle Ave to the park.
Added: June 21, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Kenneth Ball
From: San Diego CA
E-mail: knkball@att.net

To all,
Sorry about my sentence structure it should have read, We can all be fortunate that our parents/ guardians chose Richmond Hill, as our home.
I also forgot to comment on our local Fire Department folks, they were just past 102nd street on Jamaica Ave, weren't they the best and they would let us look at the fire-engines and sit up on the seats, I liked the Hook and Ladder myself.
These folks were all part of the glue that held Richmond Hill, together as a safe place to live and grow up. Ken Ball, San Diego
Added: June 21, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Kenneth Ball
From: San Diego
E-mail: knkball@att.net

To All, Happy Fathers Day first and secondly we are all Richmond Hillites no matter which street or boundary we lived near.
Can absolutely thank God and our parents/guardians for selecting an area like Richmond Hill, so we could grow up away from some of the terrible areas that existed in the New York.
Areas where Gangs, Drugs and many undesirables hung out. The Police when I lived on 104th st would chase many of these characters away at first sight of them. The cops back then knew who belonged and who did not they kept an eye out for the kids because many of them lived in the our neighborhood. Several of my friends moved to areas of Brooklyn which were fundamentally dangerous to young kids. I would visit them and they knew not to go two blocks this way or that.
I feel we really had in Richmond Hill, one of the best places to grow up in New York City hands down!
Ken Ball "Proud to have been a product of Richmond Hill" Hey maybe a good Tee Shirt Logo
Added: June 20, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Joe Cutrone
From: Brewster, NY
E-mail: cutrone11@comcast.net

Vince Glasser:
The KF Deli Manager's name was Victor. He was quite a character and always had a remark appropriate (or inappropriate, as per your perspective) to the occasion.
Added: June 20, 2010


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

You tell them John C, we knew Richmond Hill because we were Richmond Hill.
As for those who knew the Nations didn't mess with the Nations. LOL Those were great times, see you at the reunion in August. Rich Newell
Added: June 20, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
April Koster
From: Richmond Hill
E-mail: aprildale18@yahoo.com

I'm in Metropolitan Avenue, it is the northern boundary of Richmond Hill.
Added: June 20, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
John Parenti
From: Mastic, NY
E-mail: jjaypare1@optonline.net

When did they change the border line of Richmond Hill?
I lived on 125th Street just north of 109th avenue. The southern most tip of RICHMOND HILL.
Added: June 20, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Dennis Doyle
From: Richmond Hill, NY
E-mail: webmaster@richmondhillhistory.org
Yikes! John Celauro:
What are you trying to do, create a "turf battle"? I hope this "debate" leads to just pride of one's neighborhood surroundings and not an all-out, down and dirty fight. The Nations was a pretty tough gang I was told.
Added: June 20, 2010

Submitted by Comments:
John Celauro
From: Between 102nd St and Lefferts... 113th St to be exact...
E-mail:

Someone recently mentioned that he considered where he lived in Ricmond Hill (125th St) to be the "real" Richmond Hill.
I need to correct this poor fellow, but the "real" Richmond Hill (using Jamaica Ave as a dividing line) is from 102nd Street to Lefferts Blvd. Past 102nd Street is Woodhaven, past Lefferts Blvd is Jamaica.
I'd also venture to say, that Myrtle Ave is the northern boundry and 101st Ave (or Jerome, whoever he was) is the southern border. Maybe, just maybe Liberty Ave. But most of those people were foreigners.
Hopefully, this clarifies things and hopefully this starts a debate.
Added: June 19, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Connie (Russo) Cassata
From: Saddle Brook, NJ
E-mail:

I typed a few comments below mentioning friends around the blocks I grew up very close to, working at Key Food on 101st Avenue in the mid 70's, but not until I saw RICK OHLE did I mention RHHS.
Rick, do you still have the (platinum) blonde hair? Do you remember Arthur D'Alessio, Anna Trieste, Joan Yee, Jack Inzetta, Anna Paolella, Kay Annunziato, Tony Spoto, Linda Piccoli, James Palazzolo, Maria Malta, Sue Caracciolo - in no particular order?
I didn't know it at the time, but those days were some of the best memories and I wouldn't want to trade it for teenage years "now a day". I am glad I passed "raising a teenager" recently.
I have to get my 1973 (whew, we're old) RHHS yearbook out, and laugh at the hair styles and outfits worn.
Added: June 19, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Richard Ohle
From: Los Angeles
E-mail: aquaticz@att.net

Had to come back and say that I knew Jackie Maple as a boy.
He was a friend of my brother John. I went to Brooklyn Technical HS. Jackie saw to it that I came home safely daily on the "A" & "J" trains. I would wait for him and his football buddies after practice.
The neighboorhood surrounding BTHS was a nasty burned out ghetto with junkies and trash everywhere. I'll never forget him. I knew he has become a transit cop but was stunned to read he became top cop in NY- WOW
Added: June 19, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Richard Ohle
From: Los Angeles
E-mail: aquaticz@att.net

Hi, I lived in Richmond Hill from 1955 to 1976. Both of my parents grew up there as well. WE lived on 111 th Street down the street, 106th St and 113th Street on 89th Ave.
I lived across from RHHS in what we were told was one of the original homes in the Area. The gym trachers at RHHS who worked the play yard & pool during the summer taught me to play ball, swim & learn the early lessons of life. I remember quite a few of the teachers & when I attended my mom worked also worked at the school in the attendence office (not to good for a HS student).
I spent many hours in Forest Park, the lake at the golf course and the HS yard. I worked as at Cameo Pet shop as did my brothers Steve & John. I also worked at Jahn's Ice Cream Parlor and assisted making ice cream a few times with Frank Jahn.
As children we went to the RKO Keiths (sp) every Sat for a quarter. They had a Sat matinee with a vaudville show. We also spent a lot of time at the Roller Ring.
I have 4 brothers and a sister. All the boys spent quite a bite of time at the South Queens Boy's Club. I helped build the pool addition at 13 years old. We also went horseback riding in Forest Park and spent many days at Rockaway beach.
Today I work as a State Inspector for the construction of schools & hospitals in California. I am am sure that I am in the business I am today because of the beautiful home we grew up in. Gas lamps in the halls, hand plastered details, wookwork that would make you want to be a wood worker, crystal cut glass in built-in china cabinets, the kind of craftsmanship that simply has faded from the American experience.
Live in Queens at that time was a lot like Archie Bunker - his show wass a huge hit at that time. Sadly my sister has passed as have both of my parents, my brothers Bill, Steve, John & Tom no longer live in New York. I have many many pleasant memories... do you remember Marie's Candy Store on Jamaica Ave, or the bakery on 111th, the fish store on 113th and Jamaica where you could get killer french fries for a less than a quarter.
I remember when Flushing Medows was being built for the World's Fair, we got turtles from the dredging of the lake. As I said, I've many memories of the ole stomping ground. One last thing for now but my dad always told me about the dog race track on Atlantic Ave.
As I write this I realize that I have a bit of history for RH locked in. Maybe I will write something in the future recalling all I can.
Sorry about the typos, it's quite early :-) Please write if you like :-) I went by Rick in those days- I am now 55.
Added: June 19, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
RoseMarie Dinsmore
From: Florida
E-mail: merdin417@aol.com

Just saw Nuala Stack's note regarding Marge Nolte from Henry's Ice Cream Parlor between l07th St. & 108th St. on Liberty Ave.
I remember her well. You had a sister Pat, whom I went to school with. She hung out with Ann Lang. You were Pat's younger sister. I met you many times at your home. I think you lived on 108th St. off 101st Ave. We all went to Gate of Heaven. I graduated in 1950.
Henry and Bill were the owners and there was Marge and a young son, Bob. He would make us the greatest "frostys". My husband, Joe Dinsmore played for Henry's & Bill's softball team. That was all back in the good old 50's.
My husband told me that long before he met me, he had a crush on Joan Lang. I could go on and on. Please let me know about Pat and Ann and anyone else you think I might know. Hope is all well.
Added: June 18, 2010


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

Hello Charlie Bezousek...
lived on your block, but down the street... 8753 109 st between 91 ave and jamaica... lived there from '63 to '86... parents moved out in '86 to toms river... maybe you knew my brother kevin... holy child grad in '67.
Added: June 17, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Virginia McDonagh
From: Richmond Hill
E-mail:

I went to PS 54 from 1950 to 1956.
So did the rest of my family before me. Margie, Pat, Lorraine, Larry, and Joan DeLaRue. Maybe you might know them.
Added: June 16, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Charles Bezousek
From: Carmel, N.Y.
E-mail: CharlesBezouseklcsw@gmail.com

I lived in Richmond Hill from 1950 to 1978.
Our family lived on 109th street between 91st and Atlantic Ave's. I went to Holy Child Jesus and Thomas Edison H.S. We lived a few doors down from Mike Hedler's Family.
Added: June 16, 2010


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

Joe Cutrone,
Your comments about Key Food brought back memories. There was an older gentleman (and I use that term loosely) that worked with you and Tommy Pedula in the deli. He always had something to say to embarass poor Wanda. What was his name?
Hope you are doing well!
Added: June 16, 2010


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

Hello Everyone - I just had to respond to Charlie Hands appeal for recognition!
I remember eyeryone you mentioned Charlie! I was born in '43, and started first grade at PS54 @ '48-'49, this should help you align our ages. I know exactly how you feel, and am equally confused by the lack of response or input for anyone in our neighborhood (what I consider the REAL Richmond Hill), I lived at 125-18 Jamaica Avenue between the Laundromat and the Bakery, and while I am familiar with your name, i seem to remember the candy store as owned by Freddy Pagano. (His store was on the south side of Jamaica Ave. just one store from the corner of 126th Street.)
Was your folks place across on the North side next to the Greek Restaurant? Some of my friends (as well as those you mentioned) were Ralph Pagano (Freddy's youngest son, Bobby McNamara, Paul Magno (who's dad owned a fruit and vegetable store on the southeast corner of 126th).
Around the corner on 126th there was Bobby Jerrnigan who joined the Air Force the same time I did in April 1960, there was also 2 sisters Peggy and Dottie Mehan (Dottie was the oldest, and had a beautiful singing voice, Gene Toomie a year or so younger than me who joined the Navy (Gene's Dad used to drive a cab), Dennis Herbst who lived in the apartment house, across the street lived the Schnarr (?) family. Charlie was one of the brothers, and he went to Unv/Nebraska. They're are just so many. I seem also to recall Patsy Rocco had an older sister named Lucille?!? not sure about her name, but boy was she a beauty.
I had two brothers (both deceased now) an older brother John, and a younger brother Michael. I stayed in the Air Force for 21 years and traveled around the world a couple of times. 2 separate tours in Southeast Asia during the Viet Nam effort '67-'68 & '73-'74, 6 years in Germany and seven years in Great Britian. I married a beautiful Scottish Girl in 1962 and not only are we still married, but we are still madly in love! (I have to thank God for that!)
We settled in the south, right near the Florida border! Are children (3) were all in the last or within 2 years of graduating High School, so we decided to settle in here in Valdosta. I, like you would like to hear how all of the guys and girls from our part of RH are doing.
My wife and I are serving the Lord through a Rescue Mission Ministry called "The Mission Point", and we reach out to street people, homeless, and addicted people in our city. (Please - everyone - pray for the success of this increasingly necessary ministry, whenever you think of us, thanks).
Charlie, you might look back through the archives of this site, and find several messages sent from the Lupeka's, they were brothers who I seem to recall lived on the north side of Jamaica Ave. on 124th Street. I sent some e-mails and they remembered some of my friends. One of the brothers settled in Savannah, Ga (which is not far from Richmond Hill, Georgia!!!) How about that!
Well, I'll shut up now. I wish you all the best!
Added: June 15, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Janet Renee Derse Swoish
From: Marion, MA
E-mail: rfsjds@comcast.net

I was baptised in the Church of the Resurrection in 1933 and my parents were married there in 1930.
My Grandmother served on the Altar Guild for many years when Arthur Cummings was the Rector. I am delighted to read about the Church. Arthur Cummings was originally from Sheepshead Bay as was my Grandmother.
Added: June 15, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
charlie hand
From: RALEIGH, N.C.
E-mail: crhnraleigh@aol.com

I can't understand why I'm not reaching anyone who lived in Richmond Hill during the 50's.
My mom and dad owned the candy store on Jamaica Ave. between 125th and 126th st. I went to PS 54 which at that time went all the way to the eighth grade.
My friends were Angelo & Frank Chiauzzi, Patsy Rocco, Al Beach, Johnny and Frenk Cullota. It seems everyone who writes on this guestbook lived south of 89th ave and west of Lefferts Blvd.
If you recognize any of this let me know.
Added: June 14, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Bob Wood
From: Irmo, SC
E-mail:

Anyone remember listening to "Big John and Little Sparky" on the radio? Before the Bakers got their TV in the fifties and introduced us to Howdy Doody... snow screen and all... I used to listen to radio... yeah I know pretty old... on Saturday mornings. Radio was as large as current 40 inch TVs.
Was there not a tropical fish store on Jamaica Avenue around 111 Street? Nice and warm in there on a winter day. They even had a Lion fish from the Pacific as I recall. Poisonous! Best to all the Holy Child and Richmond Hill types. Bob
Added: June 14, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Mike Hedler
From: Sevierville Tn.
E-mail: mikkat@wildblue.net

April, thank you for your support it is greatly appriciated may the Lord Jesus richley bless you and family.
Added: June 14, 2010


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

Dave O., Mike H., and all the rest:
Nobody can thank you enough, but *Thank you*. God bless.
Added: June 13, 2010


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

To: HARRY FIUMARO,
Thanks for the reply. Yes I do remember Jackie, (He passed away quite a few years ago, at an early age), he was a few years ahead of me, on the job. I didn't have too much contact with him though. I do think that my older brother Eddie used to hangout with him. I remember Jackie by the large birthmark on his face.
Added: June 13, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Dave O'halloran
From: Chatam, NJ
E-mail: Dwoh61@gmail.com

Alternative address for O'halloran is dwoh61@gmail.com
Love to hear from anyone from st bennies/rich hill 1961 -1965.
Added: June 13, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
mike hedler
From: Sevierville Tn.
E-mail: mikkat@wildblue.net

Dave Ohalaren,
Yes, The heroism I saw, words can not describe. We are all affected by the Nam. I believe for the most part the vivid nightmares. Trying to make sense out of it, and what we came home to was just as bad as the Nam.
Added: June 10, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
HARRY FIUMARO
From: SOUTHOLD NY
E-mail: BOHACK@aol.com

To Art Bornschein Sr.
I know the place you are talking about. It was called Hooterville Farm Stand and Animal Farm.
We used to bring the kids there at Halloween Time for pumpkins and the kids could pet the animals. It was a very popular place.
Speaking of LIRR, did you know Jackie Herman? He played ball in Lincoln Park. I can remember him telling how he could get the Montauk Run in the days that the Football Giants home games were not televised.
He took the Montauk Run and watched the game in a restaurant that had a Connecticut TV station and then be on the train back to New York in the early evening.
Added: June 10, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Connie Cassata (RH days-Russo)
From: Saddle Brook, NJ
E-mail:

I was reminded that the Carvel Store was located between 116th and 117th Street. The bakery, owned by Tony was named "Regina Bakery". Key Food memory - wow, Joe (Cutrone) you're sharp with the names and aisle numbers. I remember when Maria (Malta) used to store her water bottle in the deli... until we put white vinegar in it. I do remember having picnics and stick ball or kick ball games.
I wonder how different we must look, that was over 30 years ago. Your hair was very dark with a tight curl, mine was dark with loose curls. Mine is still dark (thanks to dye) and the curl can be out of control at times. My daughter is a stylist so we're working on that. Ha ha. cjc
Added: June 9, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
frank fales
From: San Jose
E-mail: ffales@yahoo.com

To John Wilhelm,
Yes, I know you recently communicated with my bro Robert who lives in upstate N.Y. If I recall you lived in the apartment house across the street on 97th avenue with the Gormans, the O'Niels, Billy Buck, and Bobby Butcher amongst others.
If I recall your family moved out on Long Island and possibly had a Carvel franchise.
Added: June 8, 2010


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

To: HARRY FIUMARO,
Thanks for the photos of "our" 8th grade graduation, (I also replied to your e-mail). I see you are in Southold.
I worked as a conductor for the LIRR for 28 yrs. Had a brakeman who lived there, but passed away a few years back. He owned and operated an animal farm and petting zoo in your town.
As far as L.I. is concerned, you've picked a great rural area to live in. Hope the taxes stayed "somewhat" low in Southold. Art
Added: June 8, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Joe Brady
From: Woodbury, NJ
E-mail:

I looked up Richie Napolitano to see what I could find from the 1966 World Series, when he pitched against Tom Seaver, USC.
St. John's and USC were the only winning bracket teams in that series, but USC beat them. I'm assuming that Richie went to Richmond Hill HS and I found the blogs of that area in the 1950s very interesting.
I also visited Gertz many times and always got a soft ice cream in a glass with strawberry syrup on the way out the back door. They also had a "Book of the Month" club and as a kid I remember getting lost in the store and they always had 4 or 5 kids in the "Lost and Found" section for the parents to find them.
Other spots I remember were Jahn's Ice Cream on Hillside Ave in Richmond Hill, the Triboro and Green Line Record Shops near Macy's and Gertz, respectively. The Valencia, RKO Alden, Merrick, Savoy, Hillside Theatres in Jamaica, and Keith's RKO in Richmond Hill.
I wonder if any are still there. I remember a great Italian Ice place on Hillside Ave, near 148th Street.
Added: June 8, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Joe Cutrone
From: Brewster, NY
E-mail: cutrone11@comcast.net

So great to see posts from other Key Food #426 alumni!
To Sal Barcia:
It seems our career paths crossed more than once. I, too, had my first "job" with the Al Lerner campaign. Because his campaign office was located on Liberty Ave off 121 St, it seems like a lot of kids from 121 St worked there. I remember the campaign manager, Paul Boucher (sp?) had a 1950's Cadillac that he loaded up with us kids to drop off and pick up at various locations. There was a loudspeaker attached to its roof to blare out campaign messages, but I remember Paul shouting through that thing when he couldn't find some of us at the end of our "routes".
Once my best friend, Jeff Cummings, and I slept overnight at the office because they wanted us to be up and electioneering at 6AM on election day. The office was above a bakery (Crohn's, I think) and we were awakened by the smell of freshly baked bread! I must have been about twelve years old, and that was a long time ago, but the memory remains vivid!
And what about our Key Food days? As Connie Russo reminded me, Thursday nights were the best when Sal, the assistant manager, was "in charge!" The inmates were running the asylum. I started out at the deli, sliced off part of my index finger in 1971 (a little piece, can't even tell anymore), and moved to the grocery floor a few years later. That was where the action was, or where you could get away with the most stuff.
Some names from the past: Sal B. mentioned the Roby brothers... I still see Dave ocassionally. The Dreizen brothers, Bruce and Jeff, worked there as well, Jeff in produce. Let's see... we had Larry in aisle one, Bobby Pedulla in aisle two (I think); Iggy in aisle four; Tommy Foudy in the soda aisle (#5); I had aisle six; Kurt in seven (pet food); Dave in eight (detergents); and his brother John in frozen food(ten).
How is it that I can remember this stuff, but not what I did yesterday? Saw Timmy Hannon, another KF alum, at the SBJL visit last year, and he is now a judge on LI!! Imagine that! Although I didn't enjoy every minute of every day I worked there, looking back it wasn't so bad at Key Food. Lots of good people worked there and for the most part we all got on great. Even a few picnics and other social events. So if you worked there, please post your memories.
Added: June 7, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Pat Colihan
From: Atlanta
E-mail: patcolihan@aol.com

This is a great site and because of it I was able to reconnect with a childhood friend.
I try to get back there when I can, the place has changed but the memories are still the same.
Added: June 7, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
John Wilhelm
From: Merritt Island, Florida
E-mail:

Frank Fales,
Did you live on 97th Ave?
Added: June 7, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
steve batthany
From: Lake Worth Fla
E-mail: ebatthany@aol.com

Hey Jim Burke
Dr Mascola was @ 118th and 95th Ave. His son (older than us, richie) Altho our nickname for him would not be popular or politically correct now.
I remember when I was 14, we all got a tip on his Dad's racehorse @ Aqueduct race track. Walked over, had some one take me inside and bet $10 for me, he WON!!! and I got back more than $250. Do I remember Dr. Mascola??? Stay well, Steve B
Added: June 7, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
HARRY FIUMARO
From: SOUTHOLD NY
E-mail: BOHACK@aol.com

To: Art Bornschein
I e-mailed pictures of PS 121 graduation classes and the names of the graduates.
There are seven pictures so the download may take a couple of minutes. Hope you enjoy.
Added: June 6, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
James Velez
From: 85-25 105TH Street
E-mail: Jimmyelbosto@yahoo.com

We learn from the past to live in the present & plan for the future.
Added: June 5, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Lisa Spahrmann Lorenzen
From: Phoenix, AZ
E-mail: lisa.spahrmann@gmail.com

Guess as I've gotten older I have been remembering all the good times... going to HCJ, then Christ the King. Hanging out on Atlantic Ave & 107 St. Thanks to Richmond Hill for all the wonderful memories.
See you at the HCJ reunion on September 18th.
Added: June 3, 2010


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

To Harry Fiumaro,
I remember Tommy Colletti but I don't recall you. Were you in our class? I just now recalled the nickname but don't know why.
Added: June 3, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Liz Athineos
From: Boston
E-mail: eathineos@comcast.net

Anyone remember Lynne Schnur from class of 1970? Please contact me.
Added: June 3, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
HARRY FIUMARO
From: SOUTHOLD, NY
E-mail: BOHACK@aol.com

Ralph Matragrano was given the nickname of "The Duke" by Tommy Colletti in the 8th Grade of 121.
Added: June 2, 2010


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

To Bob Scott
Bob you might be thinking of my older brother John, he to might of hung out at Al's Stero. Let me know what years. Rich
Added: June 1, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Dave O'halloran
From: Chatam, NJ
E-mail: Dwoh61@cox.net

Mike Hedler
it is memorial day and I remember louis willet (medal of honor winner) and Pattie McCormick from st bennie's in addition for me (viet nam 1968) John Priesthof, Hymie Willis, Bill Nogowich, Mark Sublett, Gonzalez, and several others from d4/21 11th lib.
Welcome home my rich hill brothers from the nam Dave O.
Added: May 31, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Kenneth Ball
From: San Diego
E-mail: knkball@att.net

To all,
Does anyone remember Dr Stanton. I believe his practice was on the north side of Jamaica Ave on 104th street nearer to Park Lane South, that's were we went to get our childhood inoculations and I was treated for Bronchitis which plagued my early childhood.
Does the name Ronnie La Port ring a bell he was clipped by a car on Jamaica Ave in the early fifties unfortunately for him he did not make it as reported to me by my older sister Helen Judy Ferguson Ball.
Did anyone hitch a ride on the back of the old Bell Telephone hanging on the old vise handle in the back while riding their bike suicidal at best I got three rides until one of the phone trucks stopped real short to shake me loose I'm sure and I nearly wound up under the rear wheels, that was close for sure woke me up and scrambled the bike and me as well, lesson learned.
Sneaking under the turnstile at the 104th street station, as skinny as I was when I was younger you could have slipped me through the mail slot on the average homes door (I was painfully thin at best) this was a right of passage you had to do it at least once. We would wait for the "to the city sign" to light up and buzz then slip under and run up the stairs quickly the station mistress was not happy with us at all--- So I owe the Subway System in New York at least two dimes so you will sue me--- LOL.
The Kerchenhiters, Fred Buck, Ronnie Saxon, Sherman Singer, Christine Krasner, Nancy Hecht, Mary Ann Bruno, Harold Meyer, Judy Meyer, John Ormond, Jimmy Daley Hello!!!!!!!
Ken Ball, San Diego CA
Added: May 31, 2010


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

To Julia Kreppin,
the girl you are thinking of was Cheryl McCarthy. she was brutally murdered on that train station. she had gone to Christ the King high school with me. I remember how horrified we all felt.
It was one station away from where i lived on 123rd St. And i don't think it was ever solved. That was kind of the beginning of the end of my innocent years.
Added: May 31, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Mike Hedler
From: Sevierville tn.
E-mail: mikkat@wildblue.net

Memorial day,
Its raining here. I suppose God's cring not of sadness but of Joy for those who are with Him. I remember the parades as if it were yesterday, the gun salutes at forrest park flag pole. I'm thinking about all our friend and family that didn't come home.
Jimmy Sullavan comes to mind, killed in the Nam with the army Rangers. and many more
Added: May 31, 2010


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

It was nice to see the R.H. Historical Society and the lovely Victorian Lady in Blue in the Forest Hills Memorial Day Parade yesterday.
There is a 5 minute video of the parade on youtube. Search: "2010 Forest Hills Memorial Day Parade".
Added: May 31, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Connie Cassata (nee - Russo)
From: Richmond Hill then - Saddle Brook, NJ now
E-mail: niecon@optonline.net

What a blast from the past!
Maria Catalanotto (entry from below) mentioned my childhood BEST FRIEND Pat Colihan. That was back in the days when you only had ONE best friend. Maria was like my OLDER SISTER that I never had. She was the first of our friends to have a boyfriend. And I won't get into those memories. She liked the "bad boys" unlike me and Pat. Right.
I also saw a entry about Key Food on 101st Avenue. I worked there in '73 - probably till '75. I met another BEST friend there Claudia. Also spent a lot of time with Maria at work and after. Remember Thursday nights when Sal was "in charge" and we used to defrost shrimp cocktails in the ladies room for break time. Tommy owned the soft drink aisle. Was Joe in the produce department? That was back when there weren't scanners and prices were put on the items.
My family were the original owners of Carvel IceCream on Liberty Ave, 114th Street opened in the mid '70s. I must have decorated over 5000 cakes in the 7 years we were there. Can you say "extra crunch"?
Does any one know about the whereabouts of Tony Calarco? He owned the bakery on the same block as Carvel. I think the name of it was Capri Bakery?
Added: May 31, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Vin Smith
From: Saugerties NY
E-mail:

Hey Mike Bath, Ronan & Mike Murphy --
I have a painting company and Bill E. is my main foreman. Bill has been married for a number of years w/ a stepson and grandson. Les and I have two boys (men now). Ben 29 / Josiah 25. Josiah became a dad in Jan. I guess in about another 10 yrs that will make me a grand-dad. All our parents have passed on.
Ronan remember you / I waited overnite at the garden for tickets to Harrison. We were about 15th in line, by the time the sale started we were about 600th.
Mike B. saw Bob Houde at my bros. last weekend on LI. Asking about u. Is Bob Maletta out there? Remember staying at Lorraine Boccio's house in Huntington Station LI. That was real country to us back then. Mike B. are you still out toward Delhi / Oneonta - how many kids and how old is your 1st daughter? Name? Chris Walcott passed away last yr.
Many fond memories of RH and forest park / our haven in the city. Vin
Added: May 31, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Dennis Doyle
From: Richmond Hill, NY
E-mail: webmaster@richmondhillhistory.org
Jennifer Espinoza:
Thanks for your comments which I / we truly appreciate.
Added: May 31, 2010

Submitted by Comments:
Mark Grossane
From: Watertown, CT
E-mail: markgrossane@rocketmail.com
Like Sal I had my introduction to work in the Hill. I grew up in the house at 111-02 95th Ave. - one block south of Atlantic.
Many of you may remember that there were several small stores on the NE corner of Atlantic & 111th; one was a "German" deli run by Charlie and his wife Sophie. One of the others was a butcher shop owned and operated by Charlie Langenfass. Well this shop, in the summer of 1965, became the scene of my baptism by fire, my introduction to the world of work.
At just 16 years I still needed to have "working papers" and I remember going with my mother to, I think, the Board of Health in Jamaica (Parsons Blvd.?) to get all signed up. Charlie was a decent sort, but tighter than a drum, and he had me running all the time with a variety of tasks.
Tue. I had to fill the egg cartons from the large cases that were delivered that morning. There was hell to pay if I broke an egg,and Charlie would get it back from me somehow. Remember sawdust on the floors of butcher shops in those days? On Fridays I had to sweep out the entire store and haul up 25lb. burlap bags of 'dust from the cellar and spread it down. The huge chopping blocks had to be cleaned daily, and this was done by spreading several handfuls of sawdust on the block (to absorb the blood and fat remnants) and then scraping them with large brushes that had metal bristles, in effect taking a thin layer of wood off the block and thereby cleaning it.
But the real test of a young man's character and endurance came on a weekly basis when the fat barrel had to be put out on the front sidewalk to await the arrival of the fat truck. The fat barrel was an old 55 gal. oil drum that had to be kept in the walk-in refrigerator until it was ready to be put outside. The barrel and its rancid contents weighed more than me; Charlie offered no help or suggestions on how to get it out the front door. And of course the first time I had to do this it was about 90 degrees and stifling.
I cannot describe the smell, I did not think I would make the thirty feet to the door. I rolled the barrel in an upright position turning the top as you would a big steering wheel. I made it that day and every week in that long ago summer on 111th Street.
Added: May 30, 2010

Submitted by Comments:
Jennifer Espinoza
From: Boynton Beach, FL
E-mail: xoxo826@hotmail.com

I remember Richmond Hill as clearly as yesterday. I was born in 1983 and lived at 107-33 128th Street (south side).
As a child I remember riding my bicycle thru the busy yet familiar Liberty Avenue, going all the way to Forest Park and enjoying my afternoons there.
And how can I forget the day that my big sister Cinthia introduced me to Jahns Ice Cream Parlor, being there portrayed some history of the older Richmond Hill which is quite nice.
In my younger days I never thought that our small town would be so full of history, but as an adult woman I now know and will continue to be proud of RH. This is by far a great site. Thank you for offering such great history. ♥
Added: May 30, 2010


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

How about Dr Mascola, on the corner near St Benny's.
He did our big family's back-to-school physicals for free. His son, in my sister Valerie's class also became a doctor.
Added: May 30, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Bob Scott
From: So Cal
E-mail: rscott@micros.com

Richie Newell, did you hang out at Al's Stereo?
Added: May 30, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
julia kreppein wissell
From: cape coral florida
E-mail: julia1950@msn.com

Does anyone remember a girl being raped and stabbed to death at the Van Wyck stop on the Jamaica El in the late 60's?
I lived on 112th street in the 50-60's. It was a great town. Still loved it. Just curious as out of no where it just came to me about my friends murder and although we all hung out as we went to Catholic School, she was a friend via various friends and tonight it just came to my mind.
Any one that remembers it appreciate you letting me know as cannot locate it at all. Her name was Cheryl she was about 16 years and belive she went to Dominican Republic H.S. in Jamaica. Not too sure as it was so long ago. Around that time they stopped keeping both entrances to the El open... she just happened this one night to go down the one that was closed and was killed.
all info I would really appreciate... Tks Julia Kreppein-Wissell
Added: May 30, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Anne Sanks Miller
From: Hobe Sound Florida
E-mail: amiller1957@live.com

Anybody remember Mr. Brandis, he taught at PS 121 and was a Gym teacher. All the girls thought he was so cute.
He was the first male teacher I ever had.
Added: May 29, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Mike Cannon
From: Bellerose, N.Y.
E-mail:

Carlos Bakery in Hoboken N.J. has what your looking for in crumb cake. Check out cake boss on tlc.
Added: May 29, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
John Seibert
From: Valley Stream, NY
E-mail: byrd4a@aol.com

I'm from grauduated class of 1970.
Added: May 29, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Barbara Baas Hoffman
From: Ozone Park, NY
E-mail:

Going back to Doctors in Richmond Hill from the "old days" does anyone remember Dr. Saverio Buatti on 111th Street about a block or so north of Jamaica Avenue?
His waiting room was so full and it took so long to see him you would think he was the only Doctor in Queens. Then there was Dr. Maher Saad on 105th Street north of Jamaica Avenue. He was OB/GYN and probably delivered most of the kids "in the neighborhood" back in the day. His son is now an OB/GYN in same office.
Added: May 29, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Carolyn Kirchgessner Ota
From: Pasadena, CA
E-mail: carolynota@aol.com

To Frank Fales,
Regarding the NY crumb cake, beleive it or not, Entenmann's makes a Deluxe NY Crumb Cake that is great. When I buy it, I usually hear from my family, "who ate the top off the crumb cake, Mom"? (Guess who!)
For Pizza I have found Pietro's in Pasadena, CA as the one that comes close to Steve's Pizza (then Angelo's) that was on Jamaica and 111th. Good luck in your quest.
Added: May 28, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Sal Barcia
From: Floral Park
E-mail: sbarcia_meta@yahoo.com

Reading so many Richmond Hill vignettes that span many overlapping generations and many streets (or blocks as we call them) and mini communities within our community, it reminds me how many of us got our first working experience in the many businesses that operated in or around Ricmond Hill.
I had my first "paid" job courtesy of my older brother Anthony, delivering political circulars, first for Al Lerner, and later his successor, Al Dellibovi. I don't think I was more than 8 or 9 at the time. They would stuff a mound of kids into an old station wagon of a grumpy staffer, and drop us off one by one on corners with a designated route and pickup location. The "pay" must have been way below minimal wage, but seemed like a small fortune. Note: The line of succession was very short to the present, with Tony Seminerio replacing Dellibovi as Assemblyman and retaining that position for many years.
I then worked at the A&P, after an ill-fated one or two day job doing heavy lifting at All-State Rubber on 101st avenue. My brothers teased me that I was fired because a 60 year old man could lift more than I could as a skinny 15 year old. The A&P on 104th St. and Liberty seemed like such a classy place to work. And work us they did. We had to wear white shirts and ties, and do everything from unloading trucks, to packing out and rotating stock, to mopping and sweeping stores. They paid better than other supermarkets, and cracked the whip. Many other chains knew if they hired a kid who didn't get fired at the A&P, they got someone well trained and used to hard work. I worked briefly for a manager named Ralph DiFarlo, and then a grizzled, nasty beast of a manager, Eugene Smith. Bill Sadowski and Joe Carbone were assistant managers, and they had a wonderful crew of bright adults - George Connors, Joe Kreckl(sp) (dairy), and Joe Scibelli (produce). I was barely 17, and the youngest on the crew, which included college guys Gary?, Jimmy Bieger, Ray Coppola, and Bobby Federici. In those days women dominated the cashier's position - Patricia Reilly, Eileen Gannon, and a tough single woman named Muriel are names I remembered.
I met friends later that I still am in infrequent touch with - Buddy Gannon (from OLPH) and Wally Benson (Holy Child). We had a little too much fun there, and after a period where we drove Mr. Smith nuts, were transferred to other stores. I then worked at the A&P on 98th and Jamaica with Mike Iorio, a manager name Colgan, Niles ?, Sue Powers, John Reilly, Joe McGuire and a host of others I remember only by first names - Mike, Jimmy, Pat, and a few others.
I also worked at the Key Food on 101st Avenue and 120th Street. Interest group of characters there, the Roby brothers, Joey Cutrone, Bobby Fennell (who I saw last year after 30 years - still the same), a rotund manager named Joe, and assistant named Sal who loved to say "Oy!", Tommy Foudy, Gaspare, Bruce, etc.
Choosing pharmacy as a field of study, I then worked a few years at Wise Drugs on 111th Street and Jamaica. Partners Richie Santo, Lou Gazzale and his wife Nancy created a family atmosphere. They treated their customers well, and taught me a lot about customer service. They had a full timer named Richie Molinari, his son Kenny worked there, and a retiree Rudy?, and a younger guy Mike? who was a steamfitter full time and a trusted part timer.
I probably waited on some of you in any of those positions. I'd like to hear about your part time jobs in RH and surrounding areas.
Added: May 27, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Nuala Stack
From: Nanuet, New York
E-mail:

For those who hung out in Hennie's Ice Cream Parlor on Liberty Ave and 107 street: Marge Nolte, the owner celebrated her 100th birthday this past winter.
Marge danced the entire night of the party. She lives in Florida.
Added: May 27, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
frank fales
From: san jose ca
E-mail: ffales@yahoo.com

as a former new yorker and more importantly a richmond hiller, i want to know who made/makes the best new york crumb cake? (if they ship them that would be even better.)
my criteria is large crumbs (crumbs should be larger then the cake itself) with lots of powdered sugar on it. i would ask the same for pizza but i think even with fedx it would be a little cold by the time it got out to me:) my criteria for pizza was/is simple, you folded it and picked it up and if by the time you got it to your mouth most of it's cheese was on the plate, well that was New York pizza at it's best.
still can remember the pizza place on liberty and lefferts blvd. $.15 cents for a slice, another dime for a coke and by the time you finished the first, you just had to have a second slice. this is making me hungry just remembering.
any help in finding that ultimate New York crumb cake is appreciated...
Added: May 27, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Arthur Scheeder
From: Brooksville Fl
E-mail: ascheeder@tampabay.rr.com

We lived at 107-16 115th St during and after WW2.
I recently viewed that area online and was saddened by the loss of trees in that area. We used to play stickball in the street and had trouble with all the branches.
I remember vegetable and ice carts going through. We went crabbing in Jamacia Bay. I went to P.S 108 and still see that building there. I have fond memories of growing up in Richmond Hill.
Added: May 26, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Joyce E. Zakierski Simmons
From: Sparta, NJ 07871
E-mail: simmonsjo@yahoo.com

Class of '62 from St. Benedict Joseph Labre (SBJL) in Richmond Hill, Queens, NY.
Interested in creating a list of old friends? Send info to Joyce with your particulars; maiden name, City and State, and your contact# or e-mail. If someone already has a list in progress, let's share!
Added: May 26, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Bob Winter
From: Huntington Beach, CA
E-mail: bob.winter49@yahoo.com

WOW Ken, that must of been a great treat seeing your old scooter.
I remember building one myself using a wooden milk box and a single roller skate pulled apart, one part for the front and the other for the back. Panting it and hammering on the soda bottle.
But seeing yours after all these years WOW! Thanks for sharing.
Added: May 25, 2010


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

To: Joe Matragrano,
I would appreciate it if you could put me in touch with your brother Ralph. We were great buddies in 7th & 8th grades at PS121. He was a real great guy and a responsible kid. (Wish I had stayed close with him).
As I said in my last message to you, I spent some time at your home and probably met you also. Your parents were really nice people and I remember one of our teachers praising your mom's "Italian" cooking.
Sadly though, that teacher probably hated me after I threw a rolled up shop apron at Everett Hubbard and he ducked, and it went thru her giant fish tank. I think that if I were suicidal I would have done so that day. Please give my regards to Ralph and the family.
To Ken Ball:
Next time your in the "Hill" see if you can find "my" milk crate scooter, it's somewhere on 112th St. between Jerome Ave. & 95th Ave.
Added: May 25, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Bob Wood
From: Irmo, SC
E-mail:

Anyone out there recall Christopher Hawk or his family of 9?
Lived near HCJ on 86th Avenue.
Added: May 24, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
diana murphy smith
From: hillsdale, new jeresey
E-mail: dianasmith810@yahoo.com

I have six beautiful grandchildren, only one granddaughter, ages from 1 to 13yrs, two are a set of twin boys, loving life, wonderful husband, married 38 years. God is good, sending hello to all my fellow alumni, hope to see you at a reunion someday.
sending smiles your way
Added: May 23, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Sher Chambre
From: New York
E-mail:

Ken, I read your post and my eyes filled up.
What a wonderful story you shared with all of us. Enjoy and cherish your scooter. (I remember making one... I think it fell apart the first time I used it on 112th St)
Added: May 23, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Kenneth Ball
From: San Diego
E-mail: knkball@att.net

Hello all, I am sure all of us who grew up in the forties, fifties and sixties remember putting together a soap box scooter.
I used a wooden Borden's Milk box and also a single roller skate pulled apart and a two by four for the base to mount both the box on top and the separated skate on the bottom.
Mr. Taylor from 104th showed me how to fasten all the parts together so they would handle all the hard play it would have to endure over the time it was used.
The finishing touches came after the two handles set in a "V" shape were screwed in place on top of the box and the "coupe in the grass" was installing Pepsi, Cocoa Cola, and not to be forgotten Hoffman Soda bottle caps all around the box (Crate).
In 1989 I took a nostalgia trip back to Richmond Hill and looked up some of the old 104th street neighbors, found a few but some had passed on (Good People). I touched base with one of the neighbors who was in her 90's and she said she had something for me in the basement, I could not imagine what it could be because we had left in 1955 to move to Long Island.
I ventured into the basement with it's old coal fired furnace and looked in the corner and there it was my old scooter, wow you want to see a full grown man cry, Wholly Molly I was all choked up. She said to me this is a good thing, please take it with you and I did so very willingly.
So I still have my scooter after all these years what a fun memory that I can still see an feel. Ken Ball, Sunny San Diego
Added: May 22, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Joe Matragrano
From: Saint James, NY
E-mail:

To Mike Allocca-
Yes, I remember Dr. Goldstein. His office was in his home located on 124th street four houses from mine. He was my family dentist and as you said a very nice guy.
He would always encourage me to do well in school and took a genuine interest in me and my entire family. He had a wife and two daughters named Ellen Sue and Beth Ruth. All good people.
Added: May 22, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Maria Mirabile (nee Catalanotto)
From: Richmond Hill then - Valley Stream now
E-mail: redwine@optonline.net

I remember my Richmond Hill days.
I had an older sister and an older brother. I vividly remember playing stick ball on 112th Street (where our home was - corner of 103rd Avenue). We would try to hit the ball as far as we could to the elevated train.
I remember horse and wagon coming with vegetables. I remember the whip ride - which would come down our block every summer night. Let's not forget Bungalow Bar and the Good Humor truck.
I remember my friends Pat Callahan, Connie Russo who lived around the corner on 111th St. right near Al's Stereo. My aunt lived above Al's stereo. Between the 'L' and the music blasting I wondered how she ever slept!
I can recall making a large bed sheet banner - with Peanuts and Snoopy in spray paint to bring to Shea Stadium to our dearly beloved Mets! We would go on Ladies' day and our tickets were 50cents! Memories are sweet
Added: May 21, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Mari Ortiz
From: Deptford, NJ
E-mail: mariamozbucks@yahoo.com

I love New York. I lived in Richmond Hill til 1959, went to school at the public school 121 in Richmond Hill.
The years I lived in New York were the happiest years of my life. I love New York.
Added: May 21, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Carol Fowler (Rodriguez)
From: Richmond Hill
E-mail: cardio620@earthlink.net

Hi, I just found this comment section and saw your name. I wonder, could you be the same Victoria Wood that I know from the 60s.
I lived on 109th Street right off of 101st Avenue. You lived at 97-25 109 St. I lived at, and still do, 97-45 109th St. You have a sister, Jeannie and a couple? of older brothers.
Please email me. I'd love to know. Carol
Added: May 20, 2010


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

Richmond Hill Friends Reunion
It is getting close to the 2nd annual Richmond Hill friends reunion to be held on August 14, 2010. Those who attended last year had a great time seeing old friends.
If any one is interested in attending please e-mail me and I will add you to my mailing list and send you more information. We hope to have a good turn out this year of old friends from the Hill.
So any one who lived in Richmond Hill from (1960 - 1965) or attened Holy Child or hung around at the Richmond Hill Annex, High School, Forest Park or was either a member or a friend of the Nations, this is for you. Have you ever wondered of what happened to old friends from the neighborhood? Well now is your chance to see for yourself.
The reunion will be held on Saturday August 14, 2010 at the American Legion Post #948 located in Bellmore, Long Island. The cost will be $50.00 per couple or $30.00 per individual. The price includes a Buffett, Beer, Wine, and Soda. We are looking for names, address, phone numbers, and e-mail address of old friends.
You can contact the following people for more information: Julia Kreppein-Wissell - julia1950@msn.com; Rich Newell - coachrich00@yahoo.com; and Richie Kreppein - hacksquad@aol.com
Added: May 19, 2010


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

Anyone remember the dentist Dr. Goldstein on 124th Street?
He'd be considered a rare breed these days. He'd spend an amazing amount of time after treating you getting to know you and letting you know he cared. I still think of him as a really nice guy after almost 50 years.
Added: May 19, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Bob Wood
From: Irmo, SC
E-mail:

I'm trying to locate information about Frank Garrafolo (spelling?) from HCJ in the 50's. He was pretty popular singing in the old days. Did he ever make it big in NYC?
Also, anyone remember Patricia O'Leary or her brother Henry?
Added: May 19, 2010


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

Bob R.:
talk to tony perreta and my brother Kevin, both said they are coming... lol, get all my info from Tom Ozborn class of 66... still keep in touch with a few of them...
Added: May 19, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
ray hansen
From: calgary, alberta, canada
E-mail: rayhansen@shaw.ca

He was not really in R.H. but anyone remember Dr. Blank? His office was on Lefferts near Metropolitan...
I remember folks with jars of water and small fine nets scooping tiny "creatures" fronm Jacksons Pond to take home to feed their pet fish. How about "Dead Mans Curve"? It was the last hard right after going over Myrtle Ave. by Victory Field, just before you got to Woodhaven Blvd. Forty miles per hour was the "target speed". I remember doing it in pops 1953 Dodge, borrowed for a date. I remember my date, poor girl, Joanie Young from way down in Bklyn, Palmetto street. Whatta scream... Her mother dated Jackie Gleason as a kid.
How about Larry Cosgrove? He joined the Navy and on discharge bought a white Caddy convertible, about a 1956 model year. Remember "belly whopping" in winter on "Flexible Flyer" sleds? We sure had one hell of a load of ball games too... punch ball, stickball, stoopball [maybe a Glendale game] besides soft ball and baseball... Kids here dont play on the streets... How about in Queens these days?
Dating myself i was in either the class of 1953 or 1954 at the "Hill". I had a stroke a year ago and some memories, right next to still vivid ones are no longer sharp. At rhhs Mr. Griffith was Principal replacing Mr. Dann who was Principal when we were in the "Annex".
I would give most anything to hear that old nickelodian banging away in JAHNS... how about you?... Happy Trails To You All... We mostly all got along didn't we...!
Added: May 19, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Bob Rainis
From: deer park
E-mail: elcadcnrainis@optonline.net

Bill H,
I'll let u know if she is Sr Germaine of HCJ and she would have been our 1st grade teacher as Sr Bernedette Mary was the second grade.
Speaking of the HCJ 100 Anny re-union slated for Sept 18th, doesn't look like the replies are coming in as anticipated... could be wrong, but I strongly suggest that anyone who went to HCJ and that mean's all you "public's" (released time) let them know you are planning to attend!
Added: May 18, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Maureen Connelly Cahill
From: Sun City Hilton Head
E-mail:

I find it hysterical that we can all remember things that happened 40 years ago, but can't remember where we placed our eyeglasses 10 minutes before!
Added: May 17, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Liz Athineos
From: Boston
E-mail: eathineos@comcast.net

Looking for Lynne Schnur class of 1970.
If anyone knows here whereabouts, please contact me. We are having a Girl Scout reunion and if she knew she would come.
Added: May 17, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
honey chambers
From: norfolk, va.
E-mail:

one train station was on 111th st. and the other was on the corner of 113th st. newmans drug store and steitz fish market were on that corner also.
i lived directly in back of that one, 112-23 jamaica ave. from 1943 -1953! rhhs was between 113th and 114th st.
Added: May 16, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Bob Wood
From: Irmo, SC
E-mail:

All this talk about doctors... what about Dr. Adams right across the street from the HCJ Church?
Most times required waiting about an hour before he worked through the waiting room. He did make house calls too.
Added: May 16, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Jim May
From: New Jersey
E-mail: seamus3930@optonline.net

I lived around the block from Dr. Wein and he was my doctor. $2 per visit. His top item was the therapy gizmo.
You laid down on a leather topped bench and got the blue light treatment for five minutes front and then five minutes on the back. He gave you dark glass goggles to wear so you wouldn't ruin the eyes. I used to get wax in the ears and he'd pour in some orange liquid to get rid of it. He always had a crowd there like a clinic and you'd spend quite a while waiting to see him.
He had a nurse there, I've forgotten her name, but her boyfriend also hung out there, helping her keep order and moving furniture around. He was Abe Simon, who had a title fight with Joe Louis, lasted about six rounds. He was a great athlete at John Adams and, I think, threw the hammer or someting in the '36 Olympics.
If you ever see "On the Waterfront", Abe is one of Johnny Friendly's gang of hoodlums. They are all pretty ugly and he is the ugliest of the bunch.
Dr. Wein had a little mustache, wore a white doctor's coat and smoked Old Golds one after the other.
Added: May 16, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Bob Wood
From: Irmo, SC
E-mail:

Anyone recall a Greek family, Seidel, daughter Patti living right off Jamaica Avenue around 115th street?
Also the name of a pizza place in Ozone Park near the Bohacks? Guess that is the right spelling?! Also, was the stairway up to the "L" down the street from Holy Child or nearer 114th street?
Hey, give me a break here, I left in 1957. Bet I know more about getting around Miami than you do! Ha.
Added: May 15, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Edi Beckler Goldberg
From: Palm Beach, Fl.
E-mail: lv2trvlny@aol.com

So many memories, however, speaking of doctors...
Does anyone recall Dr. Morris Wein, a "Marcus Welby" type doctor? It could take hours waitng to be seen. He took alot of time with each patient. He really cared. Used to have "baking machine". He would put long sticks up your nose into sinus cavity to clear them out! Yipes. He was located on 103 Avenue and 127 St.
I also went to Dr. Milton Cohen, who made house calls... Dreaded a needle in the tush. lol. He had two daughters, Margery and Carol. Wonder where they are.
Added: May 15, 2010


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

went to see dr mailman when i came back from viet nam. he said i had flat feet, i had to laugh after all that i was through.
dr mailman was connected with jamaica hospital, across the street from him was dr meyerdirks, his son went to st bennies. dr lustigs pratice was located on 103rd ave and he was jewish and married to a lady that was catholic and the children went to st bennies; and dr lustig was connected to mary immaculate hospital in jamaica.
this question goes to all the people that worked in jahns. i remember the kitchen sink and the tall in the saddle but thats all i remember. the fathers and mothers would chuck us in there and then go in salernos and drink and eat and smoke the butts.
those were the days, mark young.
Added: May 14, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Bob Winter
From: Southern California
E-mail: bob.winter49@yahoo.com

See, who ever said Janie was part of the Nations, that was not true.
There was no girls in the Nations.
Added: May 14, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Bob Winter
From: Southern California
E-mail: bob.winter49@yahoo.com

Hi Janie -
Wow the last I saw you, you moved into the apartment next to me on 120 street. Who would figure will live in the same apartment house when we were kids.
RH site is so cool! And to think all the people I have re-connected with even your brother Tommy. I'm living in Southern California now - Huntington Beach, been here for over 20 years now. Moved to NJ in '69 and worked for AT&T for 20 years before moving to CA.
I'm now working for UnitedHealthcare. I got married to a Jersey girl, and have a daughter 26 who just got married last August.
Great to see you on this site.
Added: May 14, 2010


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

Bobby Raines, do you think that was sister germaine... lol... we had her in what the second grade I think... amazing... are you going to the holy child reunion.
Added: May 14, 2010


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

In 1950 I had an emergency appendix removal done at Jamaica Hospital, by Dr. Barber (121 St north of Hillside). About a month later I got hit in the forehead by a baseball bat and got stitches from Dr. Mailman!
I always wondered what occupation the next doctor I needed in an emergency was going to have.
Added: May 13, 2010


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

Could the poster from Texas who taught at HCJ in the 50's be Sister Germaine?????
If so, jump on over to the HCJ reunion page... lots going on.
Added: May 13, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Janie (Fleury) McGovern
From: Wilton, Connecticut
E-mail: jfmcg17@yahoo.com

OMG!!! Bobby Winter... a childhood friend and so many memories.
The last we heard about the Winter Family... you were residing in New Jersey. Of course, that was back in our "twenties".
I'll always have fond memories of Jahn's, RKO, Forest Park, and Holy Child, as well as many of our former neighbors and classmates.
I've been living in Connecticut cloae to thiry years now, I am married, and have a son (27), and a daughter (25). Hopefully, life is treating you well. I would love to hear from you. Janie
P.S. I was never a member of "The Nations".
Added: May 13, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Ruth Stuart
From: North Potomac, MD
E-mail: rutbatavs@comcast.net

Just visiting my old neighborhood. I was looking for a good picture of the portable classrooms at RHHS.
The NYT January 16, 2008 article, "On Education - A Queens High School With 3,600 Students, and Room for Just 1,800" has a great picture, but a view from the sidewalk 114th st. might be better to get a perspective on the enormity of it.
If anyone can help me, please send it my way.
Added: May 13, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Sher Chambre
From: New York
E-mail:

Yes, Steitz Fish Store. Had that dusty old turtle in the window on the left side. He had a cigarette in its mouth.
Just wanted to tell people that the Carousel in Forest Park is closed down. They are waiting to find a vendor to operate it again. Salerno's is now a Mexican Restaurant. And I'm sure you all know that Jahn's is no longer there.
Added: May 12, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Linda Goddard Mancini
From: North Bellmore, NY
E-mail: Mamamancini@verizon.net

OMG!!! We used to call it the "Health Station"!!!!
I remember it - a long time ago. Guess I went there when I was a toddler. Then we had our family doctor, Dr. Marvin Mailman, who had his office on Lefferts Blvd. between Atlantic and 95th Ave. He used to make housecalls with his little black bag and if you needed a shot, he boiled the needles in my Mom's pot on the stove.
Long, long ago - I was born in 1946. Lived on 116th Street and had 4 sisters and 2 brothers. The Goddard parents, Eleanor and Clyde are still in the house.
Love reading the memories.
Added: May 12, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Paul C. Lupica
From: Guyton, Ga (Savannah)
E-mail: pclupica@gmail.com

Bob Wood, Yes I remember the shoe store.
We used to 'hangout' at that corner in the early '60s. I remember Mike and Maureen Hedler, "Little" Alice, 'Penny', and a bunch of others but can't remember names who hungout there. The manager, Mr Schwalbe, was Sid and Mary Lou's dad. Mary Lou hungout with me at that corner.
I also have a memory of being taken to some sort of health clinic or something (just off Jamaica Ave on 114th or 115th Sts) when I was a baby. I remember the whole place was painted a greenish color and all the 'babies' were on a long table that was partioned off. Like little cubicles.
Do you or anyone remember that place. I was born in '48 so I'm talking about a LONG time ago.
Added: May 11, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
mike hedler
From: sevierville, tn.
E-mail: mikkat@wildblue.net

Bob Wood, I do remember getting those greasy fries, it was a fish market I believe.
Who could forget Miles shoe store, bought my first pair of convese sneakers there.
Added: May 11, 2010


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

Hi Sher, The name of the candy store that you mentioned next door to Wise Drug's was Marie's Candy Store.
There was a lady with red hair that worked in there with Marie named Ann. I always stopped there on my way to school at lunchtime. Regards, Anthony
Added: May 11, 2010


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

I certainly remember Miles Shoe Store. I lived on that block 1943-1953, and my family there until 1960.
I bought all my shoes in Miles and they were only Black Ballerina Shoes $2.99, or Black Penny Loafers, and wouldn't wear anything else until I started wearing Heels and bought them there too.
They had an Xray machine when we first started going in but later they were banned from shoe stores because of the radiation.
Steitz, The Fish Store on the corner of 112th was where we bought the greasiest French Fries but absolutely the best ever.
Adams Bike Store down the street where I rented a bike for $.25 for a few hours.
Woolworth's a few stores away from Miles was where I did so much walking around and looking at everything. The Garden Theatre was across the street next to the Ice Cream Parlor where all the kids hung out.
Ahhhh such good memories.
Added: May 11, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Charlotte Mahoney
From: PA
E-mail:

Bill Woll---
Did you know someone from RHHS in the Class of 49 named Donald Fuhry? He often was called Elmer. He lived on 121 St and 103rd Ave. in Richmond Hill. If you did, he was my Dad.
I remember him talking of many of the places you mentioned.
Added: May 10, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Robert Sheridan
From: Austin, TX
E-mail:

To Bob Wood:
Yes, Miles was a fixture as a shoe store. The bike shop was Adam's (and Mr. Adam had a perpetual layer of grease on his hands and under his nails while fixing flats on the wooden floor of his shop). And the fries were from the fish market with saw dust on the floor on the corner of 112th and Jamaica Ave. All memorable institutions.
Oh, and I used to get my haircut at that barber shop - Phil would cut my hair. The chairs had the leather straps hanging from them to hone the straight edge of the razors.
Added: May 10, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Bob Wood
From: Irmo, SC
E-mail:

Anyone recall the Miles Shoe Store on Jamaica Ave. and 112 Street? Got my first Army boots there in the 50's! OK, I know it's old stuff but fun.
What about the "joint" near the barber shop on Jamaica Avenue where they sold "juicy" french fries after school? And the old bike shop on Jamaica Avenue near that barber shop... no waiting and all the barbers in white of course.
I grew up with an Airedale in the house that father walked religiously. Anyone recall our dog... he was pretty wooley most of the time.
Added: May 9, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Bll Woll
From: Venice, Florida
E-mail: coerce7817@mypacks.net

I thoroughly enjoy the many comments from the Richmond Hillites.
I lived at 87-53 110th Street from 1944 until 1951. I was a 1949 graduate of RHHS, a "49er" as we called ourselves.
All of the places that have been mentioned here bring back such vivid memories: Jahns, RKO Keiths, Loewes Willard, Hillside Rollerdrome, Garden Sweet Shoppe, Poppies. As we grew older, there was Furci's at the corner of Atlantic Ave. and 111th Street, the Brick Front Cafe on Atlantic Ave. about 117th Street. Beach 116th Street, Rockaway, Jackson Pond, Victory Field, I could go on forever listing the mmories that are flashing into my mind. But I know you all understand.
I'm glad I found this site. I particularly want to mention, Gerry Cunningham from 91st Ave., Cal Weisinger and Eddie Bauer from 111th Street. These were my closest friends during high school years. I hope they are all okay.
Added: May 9, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Dave O'halloran
From: Williamsburg, Va
E-mail: Dwoh61@gmail.com

I lived near corner of 95th ave and 126th st. Remember "joinses" candy store.
I remember the counter where the pretzel sticks were in the stand-up container. Also got sodas from the the fridge in the middle of the store, remember my favorite flavor was pinapple soda. Also liking wise potato chips but switched to the new and saltier lays chips.
Smokie was our Disneyland. I will never forget the kids growing up, the great neighborhood, and the times in that wonderful place in our memories of "Richmond Hill".
Dave ("Davy" for you that remember me)
Added: May 8, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Sher Chambre
From: New York
E-mail:

The candy store on 111th Street was called Mr. Hamms.
On the n. side of 111th & Jamaica Ave was Wise Drug Store. Next to that, was another candy and newspaper store.
Added: May 8, 2010


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

B. Heaney:
Yes Jackson's pond was frozen over quite a few times. One year all of us broke up the ice and we were on "floats" like in the artic circle LOL. with long branches from the pine trees as oars to push us around. We occasionally fell in but were never soaked because of the shallowness at one end. But it was pretty "deep" at the other end, I think a foot or so.
The candy store was across the street and we used to go in and break the owners chops a few times but he still liked us beacause we spent money on the sodas and chips and ice cream.
Many a great time with Jackie Maple and his bulldog stealing our pensie pinkies and spauldings balls when w/ played stickball. I miss RH so much, and I gather so do many of our Alumni. Great Times.
Added: May 8, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Germaine Wieman
From: Houston, Tx
E-mail: grwieman@academicplanet.com

Enjoyed searching for former students of mine. HCJ 1950's. "By your students you are taught".
Thanks to them, I successfully and happily taught school for 40 years.
Added: May 8, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
mike hedler
From: sevierville, tn.
E-mail: mikkat@wildblue.net

Bill, I also remember when Jackson pond was filled with water, watching people with their boats. Man some of them were so neat. some had sails and some even had motors. but I used a boat made of popcicle sticks and a make shift sail.
Wow its so awesome to look back at times. Thanks Bill for the memories.
Added: May 8, 2010


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

The candy store on 125th St. and 95th Avenue was "Jonesies"--I could spend half an hour at the penny candy shelves making my choices with my allowance! (late '50s, early '60s). Then Mr. or Mrs. Jones would put my purchase in a tiny brown paper bag.
I also remember the pretzel rods at the soda fountain and the lemon ices--we called them "squeezies". Carefree days!
Added: May 7, 2010


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

does anyone remeber when jackson pond was filled with water, and the candy store accross the street sold little toy boats, you could buy and float them in the pond.
Winter was fun as well... the water froze the pond and we played on the ice, remember jack maple falling in one day, was pretty funny... good old days...
Added: May 7, 2010


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

does any one besides myself remember the Memorial Day parades down Rockaway Blvd? they started at the park where 115th Ave begins at the triangle at Rockaway and headed to Baisley Park.
I took part in the 1962 parade, got to the Park, was given an ice cream sandwhich and a ride home from a veteran who was a friend of the family. Are they still having the parade?
Added: May 7, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
marty peshler
From: smithtown
E-mail:

chris glasser, sure i remember your brother paul. how is he doing? hope all is well with you. regards, marty
Added: May 6, 2010


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

Frank, I believe the candy store was called "Jonesey's", at least during the middle 1950's.
I remember the "icebox" Coca-Cola box in the middle of the floor, on a hot summer day after playing a baseball game, it was great to reach in, soak your arm in ice water, and pull up a bottle of soda. I remember, particularly the "Mission" brand Black Cherry, or Cream sodas. To me, they were even better than Hires root beer or Coca-Cola or Pepsi.
By the way, thanks for putting me in touch with your brother, John. He and I were classmates in SBJL (I lived around the corner from you--on 120 Street).
Added: May 6, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
john trainor
From: northport, ny
E-mail: islraven@yahoo.com

Frank Fales, coincidental that you should mention the candy store by the park.
I've thought about it a couple of times lately, it was kind of out of the way but on a lovely tree lined street. I went in a couple of times but don't remember the owner. I guess after 1960 I wasn't up there much. You are right about the thoughts that come back to us, the things we piece together from our past.
Not crazy so much as inconsistent, but that's how it goes after half a century has passed.
Added: May 6, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Wayne Masters
From: Franklin, NH
E-mail: waymasters@metrocast.net

Thank you to Edward Shillito and John Rodgers for their help in finding the location of the former LI Banana Co.
I'm looking forward to driving by through the area they have identified this June.
LI Banana, by the way, provided all those bananas you enjoyed at your banana splits (or was it a "Nosher's Nightmare") at Jahn's ice cream palor.
Added: May 6, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Lisa Destio Tecarr
From: St Paul MN
E-mail: venimeux@live.com

I grew up in brooklyn and queens, hung out everywhere though.
I had friends in Brooklyn, Woodhaven, Richmond Hill, the OZ. Lefferts, smoky park, forest park, 88 park, etc, etc. I went to JHS 210 and FK Lane. A lot of friend I had went to RHS also.
I wonder if anyone remembers me!!!
Added: May 5, 2010


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

As I read the entry by Marty Peshler regarding Dennis and George Farrell I couldn't help wonder about their beautiful sister Camille who was in my "Class of '78" at SBJL. She was such a bright, beautiful, caring girl. I can only hope life has been good to her.
Also, I believe that Marty may remember my brother Paul Glasser.
Added: May 5, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
frank fales
From: san jose, ca
E-mail: ffales@yahoo.com

Does anyone recall a candy store across from Smokey Park?
I seem to remember at the end of it's exsistence, it was owned by an elderly guy and one day he started literally "giving away the store". I believe the cops came and were trying to contact relatives.
Kind of crazy the memories this site envokes each time I visit.
Added: May 5, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
May Green
From: Leesburg, VA
E-mail: mayc45@aol.com

Looking for info on Fox hunting on Staten Island in the early 1900.
I am trying to find the name Townsend as either a Master or Field Master. Can you help me?
Added: May 5, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
John Parenti
From: Long Island
E-mail: jjaypare1@optonline.net

Mike, I remember Miss Ramsey...
but the last time I saw her was in 1951, when I graduated PS 121. She was my 8th grade science teacher. She was pretty old then, probably to a 13 year old kid anyway. If I remember right she had like faded red hair. But she was a good teacher. I remember getting an A+ on my science project on the planets.
The one teacher who had an influence on me was Mrs Bernard. I was sort of the class clown, and she told me "Never to lose my sense of humor".
Added: May 4, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
barbara racano
From: long island, new york
E-mail: soloenufber@yahoo.com

hello, if anyone has information pertaining to HMS large bell, moorpoint, circa 1941 please contact, many thanks
Added: May 4, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Anthony Mancaruso
From: Homosassa Florida
E-mail: amancaruso@tampabay.rr.com

I was born on Jamaica Ave. (123 St.) year of 1926. Lived in various Apartments, Ozone Park, 124 St., 126 St., PS 54 was my elementary School. Moved from area in 1937 to Cambria Heights (Suburbs).
Love to see that some of us are still living and remembering the great Days.
Added: May 4, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
john trainor
From: northport ny
E-mail: islraven@yahoo.com

Mike A,
I remember Miss Ramsay from 1955 as my science teacher. My impression of her now is that she was at least in her early fifties then. But as you say about the powers of observation of the young, mistakes are possible. I recall her as professional, helpful, and low key. However given the material I offered to the world, she nor anybody else couldn't have had a profound effect on me.
In any case, I was to busy always talking to the two pretty girls sitting across from me, Patsy Labas & Marie Ferrara. Again, thanks for your earlier help. John
Added: May 4, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Sir Timothy Maloney, PhD.
From: Parts Unknown
E-mail: Tim.Maloney@gvltec.edu

Perhaps I've been searching in the wrong archives.
But I haven't found any information on the following: Holy Child Jesus School, P.S. 90 Elementary, and the,"Adam's Family" style house next to my parent's house at; 87-71 111th Street.
Also, the origin of the remains of an ancient,"Queen Ann" cherry orchard in our yards. Who's trees were earily monstrous!
Added: May 3, 2010


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

Does anyone remember a Miss Ramsey at P.S. 121Q in the mid-fifties. She taught math and science to 7th. and 8th. grades.
She had a remarkable influence on my life and I'd like to contact her if it is at all possible. I remember her as being pretty old at the time, but at 12, everyone over the age of 25 is old!
Added: May 3, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Bob Wood
From: Irmo, South Carolina
E-mail:

To: Marilyn Mayer-Gaffney
Thanks for the continuing information. Another interesting point about the basement or as we called it cellar of 114-11. My father, the NYPD guy, set up a shooting range for me to learn to shoot .22's down there. Mother objected to the thump-thump of shooting but we got by. Also on New Year's he would shoot his .38 police revolver into the ground outside to join in the fun. Nowadays we would all go to jail I'm sure.
Great deli on Jamaica Ave. called Gassaw and Camp (spelling?!). I was old enought to vote in the Miss Reingold competition. Recall another family, the Bakers, son Raymond, in the neighborhood. He was a little older.
And yes, for the fellow that wrote in to advise me about 'It's A Wonderful Life', figured it was done on the backlot in Hollywood but one never knows. Still a great book with great photos.
Life is very good in SC but still recall some of the fun in old RH!!!!
Added: May 3, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
marty peshler
From: smithtown
E-mail:

have been off this site for a while but did attend the 'last' st. bennys reunion. it was great but so many more people would have attended if they knew about it.
saw some comments about the tremeloes who played every sunday afternoon at chellis hall. we loved that band and my group of friends followed them wherever they played; dublin pub, etc... and i even had them play at my wedding.
george farrell, hello, hope all is well. get in touch with al, he would love to talk to you. saw dennis at the st. bennys farewell.
Added: May 2, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Paul C. Lupica
From: Guyton, Ga.
E-mail: pclupica@gmail.com

It's wonderful but saddening when I read these comments about Richmond Hill.
My brothers and I were born and raised on Hillside Ave and 124th st. until about 1972. Our mom, Adele Lupica (nee: Williams) moved into that house sometime around 1920 with sister Violet and my grandparents Leonard and Anna Rudolph Williams.
Growing up we lived in the most friendly and most beautiful neighborhood imaginable. Then as we married and moved away we failed to realize that our neighborhood was going to change. For the most part, yucky.
When I married in 1969 I moved to Jackson Heights with my wife Kathi Giambertone. In 1972 we decided to move to Savannah, Ga. A few years ago I began to visit my brother, Lenny, in Massapequa. I was curious what 'the old neighborhood' looked like. So I drove in and found so many changes that it was almost unrecognizable. Sure most of the homes are the same but their surroundings are heartbreaking. Tall fences in front of homes. Concrete slabs for parking where front yards once were.
Just think if we just stayed in Richmond Hill and left it alone, what a beautiful place it would be today. I've read comments from writers of changes from 'way back.' Meaning the '80's or '90's. Who remembers the 'Pretzle man' with his box of warm pretzles or the 'ice man' delivering big chunks of ice. Or the coal man dumping coal down chutes into cellars. Who remembers when the city started 'alternate side of the street parking'? Speaking of which, what is the purpose of 'alternate side of the street parking'? There are too people with too many extra vehicles and not enough parking. Because of, that's right, alternate side of the street parking.
Don't get me wrong I'm not wanting to bash you guys but see what progress has done to Richmond Hill, N.Y. Once seen as 'a beautiful little city within a city.' Has anyone ever given it REAL serious consideration to put 'The Kieths' back to what it once was? See the movie 'The Majestic' with Jim Carrey and see if that doesn't inspire you.
Thanks for your time.
Added: May 2, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Edward Shillito
From: Roswell, Ga.
E-mail:

To Wayne Masters,
I believe the Long Island Banana Company was/is? located on 89th Avenue between 120th and 123rd Streets just East of Lefferts Blvd. I used to walk past it on my way to the railroad yards.
One of my best friends growing up, Glenn Coleman, lived on 120th Street near the corner of 89th Avenue.
If anyone knows the whereabouts on Glenn Coleman please let me know.
Added: May 1, 2010


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

I'm in the neighborhood more frequently now as an elderly member of St John's-St Paul's Lutheran likes to come up to the congregation I serve in the Bronx.
As you know you can "travel" the streets of RH by using street map of Google. The block I grew up on, 93rd Ave bet 112-114 Sts had these beautiful mature trees, 2 in front of every home. It provided wonderful shade in the summer (who had AC?) the leaves were outstanding in the Fall. Of course those who came after us, almost to a house, cut down the trees!
I recently queried a RE agent about a hosue on 117th (91st) and was directed to a "wonderful Victorian" in the RH section, across from Jamaica Hosp. I told him, THAT AIN"T NO RH, at least to us RHites.
Added: May 1, 2010


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

To Bob Wood:
If you think about it, I have 47 years worth of memories from your previous house. What's better when you're a kid to have a bunch more and getting to know them all?!! No, it was never scary at all.
In fact, it was always bright and cheery, but as kids, I think we all feel the same about our own. The last family with 9 kids worked out fine with some of them doubling or tripling up in the third floor bedrooms. Dinner was always fun there too, pizza every Fri. night with everyone around the table. Those were the days!
The basement I wouldn't say was totally finished since I don't know of any work ever being done, but considerably modern compared to the typical Queens cellar. It was always neat as a pin, with a beautiful table in the center. I also remember the closets, also with the shining wooden doors down there with the mirrors on the outside. No one really used it, except for the small laundry room off to the side. The garage I'm sure is the same also!
As for the Post Office around the block, I only found that out seeing a historic picture from the early 1900's. In fact many probably don't even know. For years, everyone called it the "helicopter place", an office building, assuming having something to do with them!?! It's been a Union Hall for quite some time now.
I remember well the Nativity Scene in the Church yard at Union Congregational, which I'm sure many weren't here to see. It was a lovely. I remember as a kid, my parents bringing me around at night and it was just so peaceful. There really wasn't many or any other on-lookers, but I'd stare in awe at Mary, Joseph and Baby Jesus in the Manger. They'd usually have lambs, sheep and other live animals with them. It was such a beautiful thing for people to dress up, as a live reenactment, bringing out the true spirit of Christmas. I don't know if/of anyone else who remembers that!
There was even the lighting of the tree in Forest Park which we'd get chosen from Holy Child for a Choir to sing, which I'm proud to say that I did. I wish Richmond Hill still maintained the simplicity and all it offered back then. It was great!
Myrtle, who lived on the other side of my street lived to be 100, so people said. Her Daughter passed approximately within the past 10 yrs. and the house was sold. Sadly, relatives sell now a days, rather than keep it in the family. Did you know the Chechile's or the Levine's on 114th St.? Our yards pretty much connected with yours. Our's was the Levine house, bought from the Daughter, a teacher, after her Father passed.
I still wish I could find out more info here. I am happy for you though, touching base with good old Richmond Hill after the years!
To Raymond Kelly:
The Holy Child Jesus 100th Reunion is Sept. 18, BUT you must get your name and information on the list with the Church. They are sending out invitations and you must R.S.V.P. by June 1st. I'm sure if you call the Church directly, they can get the papers to you so you can attend. It's going to be a big day!
To Amy Teitelbaum:
I, as well as many remember the store very well. I'm sure you know it's been a Drug store for many years, but for those who've moved and come back, still ask about it. The last I heard about Dennis was he was still a car mechanic, I believe working in Ozone Park. I have some friends who might know more regarding him and the family.
Added: May 1, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Pat Gallagher
From: Floral Park, NY
E-mail:

A few weeks ago my two childhood BFFS' celebrated 50 years of friendship. In 1960 Mary Vinciprova, Marie Cacioppo and I met.
We lived on the same block, 125 Street between Hillside Ave and Metripolitan Ave. We grew up together on the block. With many other kids, we played tag, rollerskated, rode bikes and caught lightning bugs. When Mary's father whistled, we knew it was time to go home.
Each day we walked twelve blocks to and from Our Lady of the Cenacle elementary school. We purchased Nancy Drew books at Westbridge Pharmacy under the el and Italian Ices at Bernie's candy store.
On Saturday afternoons, we often would go to the matinee at the RKO policed by matrons armed with fllashlights. We never could afford the Kitchen Sink at Jahns. We took the bus down Metropolitan Ave. to attend Christ the King High School.
We got our first jobs in Jamaica's 5&10 cent stores (Woolworth's, Grant's and Lampston's). On Sundays we attended dances at Chellis Hall. The Beatles rocked our world. In summer we would hitch to Rockaway Beach.
Added: April 30, 2010


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

Hey Hank, played for glenns bar in softball, most likely played you guys way back...
good friend of mine still has his knife sharpening place on 123 st, jeff nella... he's still in the neighborhood.
Added: April 30, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
JOHN KOLB
From: BELLEROSE, QUEENS
E-mail: JOHNNYJACK55@aol.com

Hey Hank Haynes, how you doin,
You are correct my friend, good times. In case you don't remember me, Eleanore's son-in-law.
Added: April 30, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Wayne Masters
From: Franklin, NH
E-mail: waymasters@metrocast.net

I am trying to find an old address.
In the late 1940's and through the 1950's my Dad and my uncle owned the "Long Island Banana Co." located in Richmond Hill. I believe it was north of Atlantic Ave. and tucked in by the rail yards.
As a kid I remember walking over the tracks to get to Jamaica Ave. Originally it had a long loading deck across the front... sometime during the 50's an addition, designed by my father, was added to the front.
Bananas came in on a rail siding behind the building, were ripend inside, and then shipped out via a fleet of trucks to supermarkets, hospitals, etc. I spent a good part of my childhood playing in the plant and neighborhood.
Returning to Valley Stream for my 50th reunion and might be interested in driving by the old location.
Added: April 29, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Hank Haynes
From: Dayton, OH
E-mail: hhaynes@woh.rr.com

Dr George Benetti was the bass player of the Tremelos who did a great job of "Oh Lonesome Me" back in 1960.
His office was at 120 St and Jamaica Ave across from the Mohawk that I owned for a brief time with my exest bestest partner Jimmy Reddy.
Good old days. Regards to all, Hank
Added: April 29, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Ellen LaChapelle (Giesa)
From: Floral Park, NY
E-mail:

I lived in Jamaica and the band at Chellis Hall and Presentation school hall was the Tremelos, not the UK band Tremelos.
The members were George, Harry, Jimmy, and Tommy. The band I remember at Community Gardens was The Cordials and Mal was the lead singer.
Added: April 29, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Mark Grossane
From: Watertown, CT
E-mail: mgrossane@hotmail.com

I remember the Tremelos primarily from Chellis Hall, they had a great version of "Everlasting Love".
I was Christ the King H.S. class of '66, and we were fortunate to have them play at our senior prom, which was held at the old Americana Hotel on Broadway & 54th St., NYC. What a night!
Added: April 28, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Paul Lupica
From: Guyton, Ga
E-mail: pclupica@gmail.com

To Bob Wood:
Check out 'It's a Wonderful Life' on wikipedia. It was filmed at the RKO studios and their property in Encino California.
Added: April 27, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Kenneth Ball
From: San Diego CA
E-mail: knkball@att.net

Bob Wood:
I have been collecting old cars for many years and I own three old Dodge Coupes 1916, 1919, and 1923. I love old history and It's a Wonderful Life has always been one of my favorite all time pictures.
During the parts collection of my old Dodge Car Parts I ran into the man out here who owns the old 1917 Dodge Touring (in the picture) that was run into the old tree by, George Bailey all those years ago. The car actually was run into the tree (stunt man style) and the replacement wheel does not match the 3 original wheels.
Sitting in this car for me was quite an honor thinking that Jimmy Stewart sat there all those years ago, very cool! Ken Ball, Sunny San Diego
Added: April 27, 2010


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

Somewhwere I heard there is to be a 100th reunion of Holy Child School to be held. Could someone enlighten me of when and where?
Thank you, I was from the class of 1945.
Added: April 26, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
mimi oldsum
From: richmond hill new york
E-mail:

It is so refreshing and comforting to read what the old village was really like "back then".
I moved to RH in 1980 and at that time the area was staring to make a slow come back. Many of the older folks most of you the writers moved out, others passed along and children moved away for the LI homes and better schools. Many of my family lived many many years in RH until their end.
I moved to RH because of my fond memories of the area. But, boy I was surprised to see how such a wonderful town has been turned around. Those once wonderful and beautiful Victorian homes are almost gone and replaced with multi family brick box houses. Can not find good pizza, bagle or german forrest cake anywhere.
The good ol days are gone and so are the folks who made it good. Lets keep the memories alive!
Added: April 26, 2010


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

Community Gardens! That's a reunion I'd like to hear about.
I don't remember the house band, only that the music was really good in the late 60's long before the disco era.
Added: April 26, 2010


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

Tommy, Billy and Dave, The Tremelos Played at St Bennies, Chellis Hall, and later years at the Dublin Pub out on Jerico TPKE... they were a great band to listen to back then... played all the current music and very well...
Added: April 26, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Bob Wood
From: Irmo, SC
E-mail:

OK guess I'm living in the past too much but have been reading "Images of America, Richmond Hill" and could not help but notice the winter photo on page 110. It reminded me of the movie with Jimmy Stewart, "It's A Wonderful Life".
I wonder if any of the footage for that flick was shot in Richmond Hill. Guess I'll have to look closely next time it is on tv. Also in reading the entry from the grandaughter of the hardware store owner... frequented the place often with my father. In the 50's a gallon of mineral spirits was 35 cents but one had to bring their own bottle! Dutch Boy paint was a couple of dollars and nails were sold by the pound. Salespeople used to give me a bad (not really) time. Little kid in a man's store! Was it not just down the avenue from a butcher store?
Lastly, the photo on page 102 of HCJ third grade was a hoot. I have one just like it from 1950 but the faces seem strangely similiar. Could swear some of those kids were in my class. If anyone out there has not read the Richmond Hill book I highly recommend it.
Added: April 26, 2010


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

to bill c...
i Remember Community Gardens. the disco pub on Jamaica ave about 215 st, right? hot spot on friday or saturday nights. but... don't remember the Tremelos being the "house band".
does anybody remember a pub called Beau Brummels? i know it was on hillside ave and just east of either 110 or meadowbrook parkway i think. a lot smaller than community gardens but also a good time on fri/sat nights. also had some good bands. met the love of my life there but sadly lost her.
Added: April 25, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
John F. McKenna
From: Manchester, CT
E-mail: MJMP77@aol.com

Great site. I played for the RH Saxons in 1956 at 2nd Base.
I have run into Joe Bronzino PhD. on occasion. I remember that he and Roger Wyrondeck(sp?) were our best players. I remember Chuck Schilling(sp?) on the New Hyde Park Hawks Team went to the hated Red Sox for awhile. Games on Sunday, two, at Ozone Park, near the Parkway. Anyone out there?
I do remember Jahn's. I lived in Queens Village. SS Joachim and Anne, and Bishop Loughlin. Then Holy Cross, College of, and then flew in the Navy. Now I practice Law in West Hartford, CT.
Added: April 25, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Amy Teitelbaum
From: Delray Beach, Florida
E-mail: moondance56@aol.com

My Grandfather, and then my Dad owned 'Teitelbaums Hardware' on Jamaica Ave and 108 St across the street from Connie's Restaurant and two doors away from the Deli.!! They owned it for about 50 years!!
Anyone know where any of the Kreckos are? They used to live over Starbrite carpet store on 111th I think; Doug, Dennis, and David?
Added: April 25, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Teresa Pedone (nee: Smith)
From: PA/NYC
E-mail: apedone@ptd.net

Hi Linda Trick Fleury!!! I hope you are all doing well? We are all good!
Joanne graduates from Columbia Law School next month and sits for the bar in July!! Brian owns his own boxing gym and software company and Madalyn graduates from LaGuardia HS of Performing Arts in June... she will be attending NYU Tisch school for Drama in the fall!! Anth and I are doing great! I am retired and VERY happy!!!
Send my love to all... This website is great!
Added: April 24, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Bob Winter
From: Southern California
E-mail: bob.winter49@yahoo.com

I don't remember Carlo's, but I do remember Tommy's below the pool hall on Liberty. Tommy's had great pizza.
Living in California - God do I miss NY pizza.
Added: April 24, 2010


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

About the Tremelo's:
They were a Great British band from Essex, England. I can't believe they played in the places people have mentioned on this site. If they did, they had to be strung out. LOL.
They were a band that played pretty much SRO crowds at concerts. They had 8-10 hits. Are there 2 bands same name?
P.S.: The Tremelo's - They never had a song called Sweet Caroline. (Of course Neil Diamond did). The band mentioned on this site at local functions must be a same name band, not the British group.
Added: April 24, 2010


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

To L. Fry--
I went to SBJL with a Stephen Degruccio-- graduated in 1963. Possibly Charles' son? Might be a lead in your search-- good luck!
Added: April 24, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Linda (Trick) Fleury
From: Boca Raton, FL
E-mail: lindafleury26@yahoo.com

This site is so much fun- Dennis, you've done a great job.
We enjoy seeing the names of some of our old friends and classmates. Richmond Hill was a wonderful place to grow up-it had a small town feel yet you could easily hop a train and get to Manhattan.
Tom & I have been living down here in Boca Raton for 15 yrs. with our 2 kids Caitlin (21) and Brian (26).
The weather is great and nearly half the people we meet are originally from NY! We've made some really good friends in Florida but do miss our old friends.
Added: April 23, 2010


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

To L.Fry:
The house at 87-59 117 Street was owned by the DeGruccio family until 1977. Good luck in your search.
Added: April 23, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Dave O'halloran
From: Williamsburg, VA
E-mail: Dwoh61@gmail.com

Bill Heaney:
Same great memories from dances at st. Bennies (class of 61) and molloy (class of 65). The very best memories, good people and times. No matter where life has taken us the road always comes back to those very special times, people and times. Davy O'halloran
Added: April 22, 2010


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

I just noticed the Tremelos mentioned again, but no one seems to remember Community Gardens.
They were the house band their also, and that was the place to be on friday night. Proper attire only, any fighting was promptly resolved, and yes the Tremelos always included their signature slow dance, that always packed the floor.
Added: April 22, 2010


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

seems a few more names came on this site... fantastic... it would be spring in richmond hill and another summer on the way...
we be drinking up in the park at the lower log with the king... jimmy luger... lol... and then friday nights be going to st bennies for the dance, and molloy dances on sat night... it was great sneaking in to those places...
anyone remember the tremelos... damn they were a great band... favorite all time song sweet caroline...
Added: April 21, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Bob Wood
From: Irmo, SC
E-mail:

To: Dennis Doyle... Thanks again.
The old Post Office had a coal chute out front built into the sidewalk. Couple of my not too bright friends opened and slid down into the basement of the bldg. Had to go up the slide to get out! Needed to be closed.
We used to ride bikes up to Forrest Park, enjoy the pond and of course all the swings, slides etc. Guess that is still there. Walks in the woods were off limits unless parents were along. Is crime an issue more now? Guess so.
The church across from 114-11 had a marvelous Christmas program with stable, live actors etc. Great fun for us across the street. Also had a buddy that lived on Bessmer Street, James Dooley. Around that block lived Kenneth Erwin also a friend.
Funny story... not really... while visiting Erwin, chased him into his home and ran my arm through the front door glass, cutting it pretty seriously. Ran all the way home giving my mother a near heart attack and she ran me over to Dr. Morse's office across the street. Still have the scar. Dr. Morse had a daughter Susan that was a friend. Her brother Ted went to Naval Academy.
In olden times we walked everywhere safely. True now? Thanks again for information.
Added: April 21, 2010


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

To Anne:
The pizzeria was named Carlos Pizzeria. There was also one on Woodhaven Blvd. and Jamaica Ave, and one I believe in Glendale on Metropolita Avenue. The owner was Charlie Maggio who lived across the street from me on 112th. between 91st and Jamaica Avenue's.
He had the best pizza around.
Added: April 21, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
L. Fry
From: Maryland
E-mail: leftyl.alf@gmail.com

I am searching on behalf of my father who is 85 years old for his platoon mate Charles Degruccio who lived at 8759 117 th St., Richmond Hill, NYC in the 1940's.
They served in WWII together in the Pigeon Signal Corps in the South Pacific. Anyone know of this person and if he is still living?
Added: April 21, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
F. Ciccone
From: Long Beach, New York
E-mail:

Carlos's pizzeria was on Lefferts Blvd and Liberty Avenue.
Added: April 20, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
JOHN KOLB
From: BELLEROSE, QUEENS
E-mail: JOHNNYJACK55@aol.com

To Anne Sanks Miller:
I think it was called Carlos Pizza on Lefferts and Liberty.
Added: April 20, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Helen (Akus) Eagleston
From: Marbletown, New York
E-mail: helen.eagleston@cliffordchance.com

To Zelda Grossman:
I remember your mother so well and am very sorry to hear of her passing. She was my second grade teacher at PS 62 and always such a wonderful person.
My thoughts are with you and your family.
Added: April 20, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Teresa Pedone (nee: Smith)
From: PA/NY
E-mail:

Anne Sanks Miller:
I think it was Carlo's pizzeria...
Added: April 20, 2010


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

I remember the pizzeria on Lefferts and Liberty Ave. It was Carlos Pizzeria. I know because it was next door to Murphy real estate were my father worked. Above it was an attorneys office.
You're right they had the best pizza. Spent many afternoons after school buying a slice and a coke for 25 cent. I don't think it's there anymore.
Added: April 20, 2010


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

Anne Miller--
I believe it was Carlos Pizza. And I agree it was the best. Nothing like it here in Colorado either!
Added: April 20, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Patricia Spencer (Teta)
From: Hauppauge, NY
E-mail: donlin3@optonline.net

The pizzeria you are thinking of was Carlo's Pizza on Lefferts and Liberty Ave. They did have good pizza but there was another one on Liberty Ave going towards the old A&P supermarket it is still there and it is Tommy's Pizza that pizza I really miss.
Remember Hugo's Ice Cream Parlor and Karps all good memories.
Added: April 20, 2010


Submitted by Comments:
Dennis Doyle
From: Richmond Hill, NY
E-mail: webmaster@richmondhillhistory.org
To Bob Wood:
It truly is fascinating to read your memories of the vicinity where I lived. I grew up in the house on 115th Street next to the Union Congregational Church. My family purchased the home from Dr. Fernlund (sp?) around 1962, if that rings a bell.
Our family found out years later that our home is known as the "Lefferts Farm House". Hence, my interest in Richmond Hill history. Directly across the street (from south to north) were the Kelly's, the Donovan's, the Pallino's, the Amatrudo's, the Kriedman's, the Gentele's, next house not sure of, and the last house before the Post Office on Myrtle Avenue were the Dorio's. However, I don't remember that building as ever being a Post Office. It was closed down when we moved to 115th Street. As a kid, me and my friends would sneek inside and "explore" the place. Looking back, we were very lucky nothing ever went wrong being in a huge abandoned building.
On the other side of the street, the corner house on 86th Avenue and 115th Street lived a woman named Claire and her husband.
Added: April 19, 2010

Submitted by Comments:
Bob Wood
From: Irmo, SC
E-mail:

To: Marilyn Mayer-Gaffney and Dennis Doyle
This site is addictive. Thanks for more information. Almost like ancestory.com but the folks (some of you) are alive and well!
Dennis you must have lived right next door to the barber shop I went to and right across from a candy store I spent too much time in. Glad some of the Pallinos are still around. Their father was a hoot. Reminded me of Jackie Gleason.
Marilyn: I don't know who owned the house next door as I never recall seeing them. Big place though. I'm still in shock that 9 kids lived in 114-11. Did they