More email addresses on EDGEWATER NAMES page. 

Ken Banker

Tammy Fecher (Hunton/Durnford)

Jill Weidman

Doug Eagan

Maureen McConville (Goldsmith)

Charlie Moscatello Jr.

Barbara Noble (Papp)

Jim Murray

Deanna Eskiewicz (Lanza/McSwain)

Brian Mooney

Peggy Haas (Bubel)

Doris A. Borucinski (DeCicco)

Tommy Lincoln

Donald Khare

Joe Schiavone

  Betty Fink (Bulger/DeMarco)
Tony Salimbene
Jenny Attis (Roff)

Richie Begasse

 Maureen DeCanio (Huston)

Barbara Wakefield (Archambault)

Bill Twomey

Joann Spagna (Laquintana)

Karen Larkin (O'Mara)

Rose Hunton (McCarthy)

Al Burkhart

Scott Pistorino
Damon M. Rispoli
Kenneth Cullen

Ken Kelich

Debbie Fitzsimmons (Burke)

 Fran Longo (Roff)

John & Cheryl Steel

Debby Sawyer

Mike Lynch 

John Donnelly

 Anthony Chiusano (Chio)
Denise Meyer 

Lisa King (Mendosa) 

Bobby Bello (Harpo)

Richie Begasse 

Rita Burns (Jennings) 

Elyse Farrell (Hejny)

Margo McGinty
Jim Doherty

Diane Young (Santamareno) 

Billy Nicolay  

Cathy Mahoney (Horonzy)

Jane Hayes (Dowd)

Alyce Banker (Bansley)
Annmarie Banker (Spencer)
Jennifer Correa (Roselli)

Kristy Peccoroni (Repyneck)

Joel Attis

Elaine Johnston

Donnie Fecher

Denise Gralton

Louise & Linda Hakans

Lucille & Tommy Miazga
Ginger Liggio (Pardo)

Ronnie Donnellan (Salinas)

Peter Donnellan

Patsy Tanner (Sullivan)

Jacque Tanner (Levine)

John McNamara Jr.

Joe Damm

Mike Bligh

Mike Powers

Howard Stern

Fran Manerly (Coughlin)

George Glock (news article)

Richie Begasse writes:

Maureen DeCanio (Huston) writes:

Long time resident, Eileen DeCanio passed away on Saturday, December 6, 2008.
She is survived by her husband, Jerome, children, Eileen (Salimbene), wife of Tony Salimbene of the Legion, Maureen (Huston), Jerome, and Philip and grandchildren Jennifer and Jeremy.

Maureen DeCanio Huston       [email protected]

Barbara Wakefield (Archambault) writes:

Hi Craig,
My name is Barbara Archambault (Wakefield).  I grew up in Edgewater and believe it or not I still live in Alden Park (24 Alden) with my husband Jerry Archambault.  My parents Eddie and Eleanor Wakefield lived at 115-B all their married life.  They were also part of the Alley Cat group (Zapkas, Greenes, Hyla and John Knox, the Ritters and more). 
My sisters are Eleanor Wakefield (Souls) and Linda Wakefield (O'Brien) both live in Yorktown Heights, NY Growing up in Edgewater was the most amazing time of my life.  Your website of course brings  back all those memories of my youth.  My best friends were Belle Halpin, Fran Manerly, Carol Kuhn, Arline DiMarzo (Ryff), Maureen Cahill and too many to mention.  My sister Eleanor was best friends with Elsbet Braren (Wallace), Irene Humbert, Virginia Bekassy, Pat Tanner and many others.  Linda was best friends with Lucille Jenkins (Miazka) Billy Zapka, Pat Dunphy (Gamble) Irene Hufnagel and others.  Everyone in Edgewater knew everyone.  To say that you had best friends is an understatement.  You were friends with everyone.
We own a home in Stuart Florida and spend the winters down south.  While we are there we visit with your sister Arlene and her husband Bruce.  Bruce and Jerry were in the Navy together and have been friends ever since.  At least once a year we meet for lunch with other Edgewater old timers.  Specifically, Jim Cerasoli, Elsbet and John Wallace, Belle Halpin (Reilly) and Marty Reilly. Pat and Richie Feighan, Warren and Susan Cheeseman,  Pat Keane, Matty Meagh and Marie, Jack Konklin, etc.
Your website is great fun and keeps me up-to-date on many old friends.  I wish more of them would send you notes and photos.  You do an incredible job and I know that everyone appreciates it.

You mentioned in one of your emails to let you the names of our children.  We have 3 children and 7 grandchildren.  Michelle Schaefer (Archambault) is the oldest, Jerry Archambault (middle child) and Denise Calio (Archambault) is the youngest and lives near Orlando, Florida.  Michelle lives in Queens with her husband and 3 kids.  Jerry lives in 12 Alden Park with his wife Kelly and daughter Kiley.

 I asked Barbara about the Archambault/Archibald families...

You are correct about the "Archambault"/"Archibald" families.  There were two families and they hung around quite a bit.  One family consisted of Charlie, Judy, George and Jerry Archibald and my husband's family consisted of George, Jean and Jerry Archambault.  Archibalds lived at 69-D and the Archambaults lived at 121-C growing up.  This was confusing even today.  When they were kids Jerry Archambault hung out with George Archibald and Jerry Archibald hung out with George Archambault.  The two girls were Jean and Judy.  So... you can see how this has always been quite a confusing situation as well as an odd story. By the way, I remember your parents very well since my parents spent many evening socializing with your family. Will get back with more news.

 Regards and Thanks,
Barbara & Jerry    [email protected]

 Bronx Historian Bill Twomey writes:

Craig,   I thought I should jot down a few names for the People page while I have a few minutes  -- the painters are here so I'm sequestered in a small room upstairs out of their way.  I grew up in D Section and was friendly with Butch Gilchrist, Johnny Cahill, Rosemary and Jimmy Jordan, Billy Galm, Richie Horan, Niall McCabe, Charlie Moscatello, Kathy Weiss, Sandy Mankey, the Wezyks (Mike, Ted and Lucille), and many others.  Many names in this section of your website ring true to me as I worked for both the butcher and the candy store so saw everyone in the Park sooner or later.  Anna Wehr had the candy store when I worked there.  Some of the names mentioned that are very familiar to me are the Tanners, Louise Hakens, Tommy Miazga, Billy Zapka, John Donnelly, and many others.  Other names will come to me.  I moved out of the Park in my late teens but still have family there so visit quite often.  While roaming around Throggs Neck I occasionally come across some "blasts from the past" including Howie Burkhart, Eddie Lagenbauer, Johnny Bolger, Mark Sutter, et al.  I also have lunch with Mack (John McNamara Jr.) every now and then and he's really the one to tap into as he inherited his father's great memory.  I'll be seeing him later this month and I'm sure he'll have a few tales to tell.  He always does.  I'll try to dig up some more old photos for you and please let me know if any reunions are planned as it would be great to see some faces from the past.  Keep the memories coming.

I asked Bill about my sister-in-law Pat Meagh and her brother Jimmy. 

I know Jimmy Meagh was Patricia Meagh's brother. Pat Meagh was married to my brother Gary for awhile but who are Matty and Austin. Both cousins? Did they live on the D section waterfront? Do you know the house number?
Craig,   You're right about Jimmy and Patricia.  There was also an older brother named Austin (called Odie) and a younger sister, Josephine who married Jackie Gress.   I believe Odie was a cop.  Matty and Austin (also called Odie) were cousins and lived at 12-D (possibly 13 D but I think it was 12) on the waterfront.   Matty would be about 68 or 69 now and Odie a few years younger.  I recall that their father, also called Matt, played the fiddle (as a hobby) and would perform at local yard parties along with Mary Cahill who played the accordian.   The two elder Meagh brothers, Jim and Matt were total opposites in appearance.  Jim was shorter  and square and loved his tea, drinking it out of a bowl.  Matt was tall and thin.  Both had thick brogues.  Matt's wife was called Winnie (Winifred) and she was Scottish.  All nice people. 

Bill Twomey     [email protected]

 Joann Spagna (Laquintana) writes:

I just want to say that i really enjoyed looking at your site.......thank you   it's brought back so many memories......

 When i opened up the part on the alley cats......the first picture with your mom -(i remember that summer)-- she is with Hila Knox (Elieen Green was bobby's mother) and the other Lady is my grandmother. (mildred Meehan) she was my mom (Joan Spagna) and my Aunt Lorraine Ritters mother........and the little boy you refer to is my brother Michael Spagna.....(My cousin Margie does not have a brother)--- by the way I'm Joann Spagna........i hung around with donna devlin after i moved upstate to west nyack......

  Thanks for the memories....

  always

Joann Spagna Laquintana              [email protected]

Karen Larkin (O'Mara) writes:

Craig,

I don’t know if we knew each other or not, I lived in B section near the Loreth’s and I think you were in the sea cadets with Jimmy and Michael.  My name is Karen Larkin O’Mara and I lived at 43-B, next door to Debby Sawyer for many years and then for a few years next to the candy store Mahoney’s.  I also went to St. Frances, graduated in 1972.

I would get a kick out of talking to Cookie Donnelly or Debby Sawyer or other people that I cannot believe are still around Edgewater again!

It brought tears to my eyes to see my dog, Sarge in this picture!  Thank you...

NEW PHOTO-Karen Larkin O’Mara     My e-mail address is:  [email protected]

Karen worked in television in the 60's doing toy commercials.

To see two of Karen's commercials from the 60's, click HERE.-Craig

Rose Hunton (McCarthy) writes:

Dear Craig,   My brother, Steven Hunton told me about your website a few months ago. It has stirred up many fond memories of Edgewater growing up: High tides coming up over the seawall. Labor Day races. Picnics on the grassy area near the beginning of the Park. Playing the glockenspeil in the band. And the forever sounds of children playing outdoors. We moved to Florida in 1984 and lived in several different areas here and never heard the sounds of children as we did in Edgewater. My kids and now my grandchildren have missed out!  There is no place like Edgewater. I really enjoyed the pictures you posted.  I know I have some pictures you might like somewhere and when I find them I will send them to you. Sorry to hear about Mrs. Nicolay's passing.  She was such a wonderful, special, unique, and kind lady.  She and her family are in our prayers. Now that I know of the website I will keep in touch.   

Sincerely,  

Rosemarie (Hunton) McCarthy.        [email protected]   

PS.   I have lived at several Edgewater addresses:  First at 17 Alden Park. Then at 44-D.  Then 40-B, and finally 11-D.     

 Al Burkhart writes:

Hi Craig.  I spoke to Bill Twomey last weekend via e-mail and he was going to cc you on the e-mail. 
Don't know whether he did or not. [He did-Craig]
Just in case he didn't, I just wanted to introduce myself as a former Edgewater resident. Lived there for 16 years until the family moved to Schurz Avenue across the street from the Marina del Rey. My oldest brother Norman, moved into our house at 110-D.
I now live on Staten Island where I have been since 1980.
I have some things that I would like to talk about, some "updates" and maybe some pictures if I can locate them.
Bill Twomey was a neighbor of my family in D-section where we lived a block up from him. I had three other brothers and a sister that all grew up in Edgewater. They were Norman (Norm), Diane, Howard (Howie), myself and my younger brother George.
You can add everyone to the Edgewater names with the above noted address. You also have my e-mail address.
From reading what you wrote it seems that you lived there the same time as I did but remained longer.
Well, as I said, I will add some more.  Love the site you created and the pictures.  I only have good memories of Edgewater. I really loved living there and never stop thinking of it.
Talk to you again soon.
P. S.  The Edgewater names show Ronny Anello my cousin. He lived at 89-D right across from us. There was also his three sisters, Lois, Marilyn and Janice. 

 When I forwarded an email about flying the flag on 9/11, an email sent to me by Mike and Ann (Malkin) Lynch he wrote:

Craig. My flags are always flying. Both the American flag and the POW flag. I am a Vietnam veteran from
1968 and lost some of my buddies over there. I also lost friends in the 9/11 attack and witnessed it just a
block away.

Hi Craig.  I told you before that I would get back to you about my early days growing up in Edgewater and today, election day 2008, I have put some of my thoughts and rememberances together. Even a few questions are thrown in.

  My three brothers (Norm, Howie and George), my sister Diane and myself, were all raised in Edgewater.  We lived at 110-D just down the road from Jimmy Shaw's house and the firehouse.  We lived right across the street from 89-D (The Anello's) my aunt and uncle (my mothers sister) and their son Ronnie and three daughters (Lois, Marilyn and Janice).  I had another aunt and uncle (my mother's brother) that lived in 86- D.  Talk about living close to your relatives.

  I remember that my oldest brother Norman was on the Edgewater baseball team.  Does anyone know anything about Edgewater having a baseball team at one time?  I'm pretty sure they played Silver Beach who I believe also had a team.

  We were very lucky in that we just walked down our street and there was the Edgewater baseball field with its enclosed backstop and ten foot high fencing along the 3rd base side to keep the balls out of Weir creek that ran alongside the ballfield.  When the ballfield was not being used we had lots of fun flying our kites.  I read in one of the locations on the website that some people remember flying their kites on top of the landfill that was placed there after they started building the bridge. We did the same, we used kite string that we bought in Harris' or used fishing poles.  I never really had much luck at kite flying.  All my kites were just "dive bombers."

  I remember (as others do) the D-section baseball field being filled with water after placing ashes from coal stoves around the field.  What was so unique about this ice skating rink that to us in Edgewater was better than Rockefeller Center, was that it lasted all winter back then.  How long would something like that last today if it even froze solid?  Global warming?  Did we ever think of something like that when we were growing up in Edgewater?

  I remember the freezing cold winters when we use to leap from iceberg to iceberg down at the beach trying to do so without getting wet or having the iceberg break and falling partially in the water.  I can remember walking out on the frozen ice quite far without any threat of the ice breaking.  We lost many a mooring for our boat when the ice picked it up and just dragged it breaking it loose from the chain.  In the spring, we had to drag the bottom to find our chain again which we fortunately did every year.

  I remember the football games we used to play on the field just across from the Square Club on the road leading in and out of Edgewater.  Some of the guys that I can remember playing football with were Jimmy Puvogel, Al Wakefield, Eddie McEvoy, Jackie O'Rourke. I do remember that we constantly got chased off the field by Jimmy and Richie Shaw every time they drove by and saw us having a good time (destroying the grass?).

  I remember the card games that were always taking place at the garage in the room behind the counter. It seemed that every time you needed to put "a few bucks" (can you remember) worth of gas in your six gallon gas can that you carried there, you always had to wait until the hand was played out before you got service. I remember buying my first bicycle speedometer from the modest supply of bicycle accessories that were sold in the garage. Maybe even a horn with the battery and pushbutton.  I remember being upset when the failed to put out the air hose so that I could fill my bicycle tires.  At least they didn't charge for the air.  It actually was "free."

  I remember watching many stickball games that took place behind the garage where the Barber shop was.  Guys would bat standing by the back wall of the garage and hit the ball towards the parking lot.  It was a great way to pass some time on a summer's day with one of Edgewater's many activities. Does anyone remember? 

  I remember having fun roller skating.  We would skate down the hill from Jimmy Shaw's house and you could build up a lot of speed.  Also we skated down the main road towards the Dance Hall as you could build up lots of speed there also.  Both these hills were also encellent for sledding when the winter snows came as well as the steep hill at the end of the last road in E-Section. 

Hi Craig. 

I have compiled some additional memories of my time growing-up in Edgewater Park.

I remember the many games that we used to play.  Some of these games are:

                Playing stoopball with my cousin Ronnie Anello.  If you didn’t have a stoop, well, you couldn’t play this game.  One of us, depending who was up at the time, would throw a Spaulding against the steps to the other who had to catch it to get an out.  If he missed it, it was a single.  We used my stoop at 110-D and hit across the street to my cousin’s house at 89-D.   We had very strict rules as to how the game was played.  If the ball was missed by the “fielder” it was a single.  If it was missed and hit the house and bounced off the house and caught, it was an out or if not caught it was a double.  A ball that hit the trim of the house and was caught was out but if missed was a triple.  And finally, a ball that went on to the roof but you ran into the yard and it was caught falling off the roof was an out but if missed was a home run.

                Another favorite pastime ball game was one that involved the Edgewater Dance Hall.  One person would toss the ball onto the roof (from the side in front of the stores).  The other player would have to catch the ball as it either” bounced” or “rolled” off the roof and try to catch it.  It always was not that easy.  There were a lot of stones and other debris thrown up on that roof over the years and the ball did not always roll off exactly where you expected it to as it sometimes hit something on the way down and changed direction.  You also had to reach out at times to catch the ball due to the cars that were parked next to the building.  Until someone caught the ball, the “thrower” kept throwing until the ball was caught by someone.

                We also played handball against the side of the Hardware Store across from the garage.

                Another game we played a lot of was “dodgeball.”

Then there were the water games we primarily played while swimming at “Fat” runway.

                One of the games was called “whoopee.”  This was a game whereby one person would take a small stick (about one inch long) and swim out from the runway about twenty feet.  He/she would then splash and kick to try to hide the stick and then swim away.  Those standing on the edge of the runway would look to see if they could see the stick.  If they did, they yelled “whoopee” and jumped into the water in an attempt to retrieve it.  However, by that time someone else may have spotted it and also dived in the water.  If nobody retrieved the stick, the same person repeated his attempt to hide the “whoopee” stick until somebody finally retrieved it.  After a while it got kind of tiring just reading water.  It definitely was fun.

                Another water game was “Red Rover.”  This was a game whereby one person swam out about twenty feet from the runway to tread water.  He/she called out someone standing on the runway “Red Rover, Red Rover, Let (whoever was selected) come over.” That individual had to dive into the water and try to out maneuver the other by getting passed without getting tagged.  If you got tagged, you then became the one to tread the water and call someone else to try to get passed you.  Both these games were common to “Fat” runway but I do not know if they were played on other runways along the beach area.  If someone is aware that they were also played by others, please let me know.

During the summertime, we in D section pretty well “hung-out” at “Fat” runway just about every single night.  The runway had a seating area attached to the bulkhead and this is where we listened to all the Top 40 tunes played by Cousin Brucie and Scott Muni on WABC; and B. Mitchel Reed (BMR) on WMCA.  At night, we also could tune our transistor radios to pick up some distant stations such as WKBW with Joey Reynolds in Buffalo, NY and WOWO in Fort Wayne, Indiana.  Some of those that were there every night were Carol Baird (her sister married my oldest brother Norman), Cathy Georgio, Kenny Conners, Eddie McEvoy along with myself.                 

Al Burkhart   [email protected]

 Scott Pistorino writes:

Hello Craig,
  Wow.  It's sites like yours that make the internet a truly wonderful place!!!  My mother just sent me a picture of my Dad and two of his friends and at the bottom she put the link to your site.  I would like to update the caption on one of your pictures

Page
http://edgewaterparkdabronx.startlogic.com/page5.html

Picture
http://edgewaterparkdabronx.com//BROWN/ByValley61b.jpg

Caption
Willy Kipp Donnellan      Oscar Northstrum      can't remember

Across from Stores '61- Photo Russell Brown.

The *can't remember* is my father Mariano (Rio) Pistorino.  My Mom told me that picture was taken shortly after he returned from coast guard boot camp back in 61.  Throughout the years I have heard my Mom and Dad tell many wonderful stories about Kipp and Oscar along with Bronx back in the day.  Edgewater/ da'Bronx must have been a wonderful place to grow up back then.

Thanks for you time
Scott Pistorino    [email protected]
 

   Damon M. Rispoli writes:

My mother, Janet Rispoli at the time, had just opened "The Edgewater Stitchery" a year or two at most before the fire.  You can see the word "stitchery" in the sign over one of the stores.  She made hand-made clothing and did t-shirts with transfers, stitch-ons, or embroidery.  The only things I remember surviving the fire - if you can call it surviving - were some buttons and things that were stored in metal containers, and the ironing machine that put the transfers onto t-shirts.  I was far too young to remember much else. 

We lived in C section from about 1973 until 1983.  Hope this helps some.

d[email protected]

Ken Cullen writes:

Yes, I recall the good times I was there from 1963-1973. The McCabe's, McArdles, Joe Kasper at 147-B, Michael Powers next door to me in B-section, as well as several others. The races down at the E-section ball field. I remember when the Stores went down in 1979 in the fire and all the punch ball games behind the stores. Bluebird bakery, Braran's Deli, Harris’ Store and the Hardware Store were awesome memories. It was a great time in my life, when I left we went over by Throgg's Neck Little League and then I moved out east. Good luck and send some more photos!!

Kenneth Cullen  [email protected]

 Ken Kelich writes:

Craig , I grew up in edgewater pk my name is kenny kelich , i recently have connected with some of the kids my age that are still there , damn i miss that place  . we lived in 35-D , my sister laura kelich was one of regina's best friends , thanks to your web site they have reconnected  , also by rothers name was wayne kelich , yes he's still alive but he changed his name . If you could please post my name and email ,  that would be great . My sister and I will be going thru my mothers picture soon , she has alot of great ones of the park from the late 60s and 70s when we where there , and some footage on the old silent 8mm . we all ended up in florida , i moved back to brklyn a yr and a half ago . hope to hear back from you . kenny   [email protected]

 Debbie Fitzsimmons (Burke) writes:

Dear Craig, After Fran (Longo) had nagged me enough I thought I would finally write you.  I hope this note finds you in better health.  In the year of 2005 my husband and I bought your brother's old house at 35-B, and now I am working on buying a get away place in upstate New York. My husband has since passed away, but that's a story for another time. It's so nice to read about old folk that we have grown up with. I just got back from Holiday and just checking out the e-mails and with Fran in town again I am very busy this Labor Day. I have some great photos and will scan them to you soon. My Daughter, Linda Johansen Carpenter is now 35 years old, married for 3 years and living in 179-C.  No Grandchildren yet.  Keep up the great work, since your web site I have heard from so many of the old gang and have met with a few of them already, so thank you for all your hard work.  Debbi (Fitzsimmons) Burke.  [email protected]

Fran Longo (Roff) writes:

It’s so cool to see my house [66-A]. My  92 year old Mom Anna still lives in the house. My dad Edmund died Feb 25, 1993- 2 days before his 83rd birthday. My brother Joe and his wife Maryann still live at 3087 Eger Place-down by the Maritime college. His son, Michael, was married to Pam on my son Jason’s 33rd birthday on Oct 28, 2007. His daughter, Christina, married a Fireman named Dave Vormittag on July 21, 2006. I have a beautiful great niece named Jessica Rose-born Dec 4th, 2006. She looks exactly like her Mom, the same face that Tina (Christina)  had when she was born.  [email protected]

 John & Cheryl Steel writes:

Really enjoy reading the site....We have lived here only since 1981... New comers..but have been very involved with community, not as much last 5 years or so...I have many emails addresses from other Edgewaterites..

Cheryl Steel  101-C   [email protected]

Debby Sawyer writes:

Mike Lynch writes:  

Craig, your memory is better than mine. I had forgotten all about Ace Sunoco [our little League Team, I was left field-Craig]. I was a catcher. Ann [Malkin] and I live in New City, N.Y., she's an R.N. and I'm a crane operator for New York City. There are some pictures of her dad's boat just got to dig them out. We just recently bought a sail boat for Ann (30 foot Hunter) she's the captain, I don't have a clue. So I get to be the crew. Got to run now, stay in touch. Mike.   [email protected]

 John Donnelly writes:

Hey Craig, Thanks for responding, I'm really thrilled with your page. It's about all the good things we all shared as we grew up in turbulent times. That’s why they call them the good old days. As for Annie and Ruthie, the last name is Kares. Their Mom and my aunt's name is Kathleen, but we all call her Midge or Aunt Ha Ha. I still get up to Edgewater 4 or 5 times a year. We all meet at my aunt's house, She was married to Nick, remember him? With the blue ‘64 Vette [actually it was a ’67 with a 427 cube 390 horse big block that he sold to John Krause Jr. (Cool Breeze)-Craig]. Nick died a while back after a hernia operation. My Aunt still lives there in 20-D, next door to Tommy Walkentine and Patricia (Donovan). I'll have some time over the weekend to look for some old photos and I'll send one of me and Ronnie then and now. She lives just a few blocks from me and gets along great with my wife as we all share in taking care of one of my Grandsons. When I get some time (soon) I'll right up a commentary of remembrances for your page. I hope all remains well with you and all my (times of my life) old friends. May God bless you. John.   [email protected]

 Anthony Chiusano (Chio) writes:

How the fuck are you bro? I cannot believe this web-site. I don't know where to begin to tell you the memories that you just brought back into my burnt out mind. I saw Scotty last week, as you know, and I am so glad that he gave you my e-mail adress. I can't type so I do the one finger boogie. A lot of the photos I had got destroyed in the flood of ‘92. The rest I don't know where they are. If I find any I will mail them to you. I bought a nice house in Mamaroneck. I got a ‘06 ultra classic, a ‘92 v-12 Jaguar, and a ‘57 Porsche Speedster which I have all taken to Edgewater to show off.  It is so good to hear from you. Hope you are doing well. O.K. brother, see you later. Write me back to let me know how you are doing. The site is out of this world. If you want to list my e-mail address and full name you can. Thanks bro. Anthony (Chio) Chiusano  153-C E.W.P.. CHIO   [email protected]

 Denise Meyer writes:

Thank you so much. On January 9, 2004 we brought my Mother back to Edgewater. She was dying from lung cancer and wanted to see Edgewater where she (in 59B), my Sister (in 80B), me (across from 33A--I forget the house number but it was an apartment upstairs from the Russ's?? I believe), and my Brother (in 33A) were all born. We had a great time of reminiscing and she was all smiles. It was a good time. Then Feb. 2nd, 2005 she passed away. We were so thankful that we got her there. The people in Hospice were all taking about her because on Jan. 8th, 2004 she had her 5th heart attack but still wanted to go to Edgewater the next day.

My family on Long Island still goes back to Edgewater every once in a while. It was a great place to grow up. The beach was great; and in the winter I remember sledding down the main street and ice skating in the parking lot near the stores. Of course the stores were a big part of our lives. Buying candy at the candy store; getting an orange drink and big pretzel at the grocery store before getting the bus to go to school.
OK, I'll stop reminiscing and let you get back to work.
Again, thank you for keeping everything up on this site.
Denise Meyer   [email protected]

  Lisa King (Mendosa) writes:  

My mother and father moved to Edgewater in 1961. I was 1 yrs old and we
lived there 'till 1972 when we moved to California. I lived at 109-B, next door
to the Gibbons family. Kathy and I were best friends, we had such good
times and I can't believe they still have the races.  
Let my give you my info and you can put it up on your site.
Sam King was my dad, Margaret (Peggy) King was my mom,
Lisa King me, Kenneth (Kenny) King, And Michael (Mike) King was my brothers. 
Thanks for this site and I will keep in touch and I will look for any pictures
I have and send them to you.  
Thanks so much.

Lisa Mendoza aka King  [email protected]

  Bobby Bello (Harpo) writes:

   Richie Begasse writes:

Hey Craig. Your site is great. Let's see... I moved to Alden Park in July '63. Right after the old mansion burned down. After 45 yrs I am still here. Living at 2-B for the last 40 yrs. 1 child named Michael, age now 39. One grandson named Michael, now 18 and two ex-wives. I still have the house on the beach though. Lol. I plan on moving in the near future. Maybe to Florida. My parents are down there. Yes, they're still alive. My brother Bobby is now married and lives in Alabama. My sister Lou Ann is married for the second time and lives in Fla. And my youngest sibling Raymond lives with my Mom and Dad in Boynton Beach. I have a lot of great memories of Edgewater Park and the many unique characters I grew up with. This place is one of a kind. I will miss it when I finally move. I will be 59 in August and it's time to retire. Lol. Lou and Ann Begasse, my parents , lived in 22 Alden Park for about 20 yrs. Bye now. Lol. Take care Craig.

When I forwarded an email about flying the flag on 9/11, an email sent to me by Mike and Ann (Malkin) Lynch he wrote:

  My flag has been flying every day since Sept. 11th. I have gone through several flags due to the bad weather and wind on the waterfront. When the flag gets weather beaten I replace it with a new one.

Richie.  [email protected]

Rita Burns (Jennings) writes:  

Hey Craig,
My name is Margo McGinty and I just received your website, just wanted to say thanks for bringing back so many great memories (some sad ones too).
My Mom, Jacqueline McGinty, is still at 129-C, and I am in my Grandparents house at 128-C. My grandparents were Ed and Marge Goss.  Please keep up the good work!!!

  Jim Doherty writes about the Boat Yard:

Thank you for putting together the Edgewater Park Website.  Although I never lived there my family had a
boat at the boatyard which we worked to restore from 64 to 67.  I would go there every weekend from
April through August to work on the boat.  It was an old WW2 Air sea rescue boat from an aircraft carrier
in the Pacific.  The things I remember most about the boatyard were the old WW2 landingcraft that was
beached right next to the railway tracks that were used to launch & pull out boats as well as the old work
barge.  The yard was owned by 2 guys who worked at night at the Wonderbread factory.  One was named
Paul [Zapka] and he and his wife were there prettymuch all the time.  I think the other guy's name was Al but I am
not sure.
I would be really interested to see any pictures anyone might have of the boatyard from 1060 on.  Do you
know when the yard closed? [Mid 80's] What happened to it? [Plowed under-Craig]
Again, thank you for putting the website together.
Jim Doherty Email is: [email protected]

Diane Young (Santamorena) writes:

Hi, my name is Diane Santamorena. Otherwise known as Diane Young.
Yeah, 22 years next to Eugene Walsh! I lived there with my Mother and Father,
they separated when I was 15 and he moved up to Pennsylvania. My mother was good friends with Debbie
McCormack (Sawyer) for a long time.  Thank you regarding my
mother, she had End Term Emphysema, she actually had it since I was 11 or 12, When I was 12 I was
attacked by a Rottweiler from Alden Park and she came running around the hill by Port Attis and I
remember thinking holy shit shes running...so at any rate, I got married July 2, 2006, she moved down to
Arkansas with my 2 older sisters July 28, 2006, and I knew that the next time I would see her would be at
her funeral unfortunately, but for her to move down there it was her last adventure in life, she had great
grand kids she never saw, so I'm happy that she was able to do that one last trip.  Then once again she
went in to the hospital, for me I just thought it was another routine visit like it had been for the past 2
years, but I was wrong, then my sister called me at about 3:15 am June 10th, and told me that Mommy was
taking a turn for the worse, then i got a call 15 minutes later from my other sister telling me that she
passed.   I didnt think that she was in that bad of shape that she would die, I mean don't get me wrong, I
knew that she was sick and that her death was expected but not that soon.  But she's in a better place
now, she can breath, drive 18 wheelers, fly planes, all the things she always wanted to do!!  Bo is an
awesome guy! I am so happy with him!! Actually 50 pounds happier!  lol....But we are very happy together,
we both have the same things in common so its great!   Thank You for asking!  I wish I had more
information about Billy Murray [who died] but I'm actually dying to know what happened to him, I know that they
recently (within the last 2 years) diagnosed him with Dementia...so I don't know if that had an affect on him.  

But I will end here, I know i wrote alot!   Talk to you soon!!!!!!

Diane  [email protected]

Billy Nicolay writes on Sat., Jan. 19, '08

Hi Craig,

Just returned from my trip to NYC. Mom passed away last Thursday. Good news was I got to see a lot of old friends. They were there to give their support and love as only "Edgewaterians" can. My deepest appreciation to everyone who showed up especially Edgewater's finest! The volunteers both men and women of the EPVFD.

 Cathy Mahoney writes:

Alyce Banker (Bansley) writes:

OMG how times have changed. This is Alyce Banker-Bansley
Your website is great! My sister Ann Banker-Spencer turned me on to it. Well done. I was back in Edgewater for Labor day of '06. I saw people I haven't seen in 33 yrs, Nancy Attis, Sissy, Brenden, some of the Flanagan girls. I ran into Kenny Hooks at my brother's store. It was so good to see everyone. I was shocked to learn of Maggie's passing. We lost touch after we moved. Donna Petrillo, Maggie and I were tight for a few yrs.
I have a few pic you might like to see I will try and send them thru e-mail (not too good on here) if not I will mail them. Mike Purdy, Steve Hunton, Robert V, Bees, Russell, and Donna. Taken in '76.
I having been living in Fl for 33 yrs. We live in the woods and love it. Lots of wildlife. Nobody can see us. I have a great husband and he came with a Harley!! In fact we went on a Poker Run Sat., the weather was great. John (hubby) and I manage a ceramic tile dist. in central Fla.
Talk about a small world; Billy Nicolay came in one day to purchase tile. I didn't know who he was until I asked where in NY did he came from he said the Bronx...I said me too.....He said Edgewater, I then said who are you? He said Nicolay, I said Mary's brother? LOL
Had a few older folks from Edgewater come to purchase tile from us. Can't remember all their names. One that comes to mind was Jerry Archibald. Before we moved to Edgewater we lived on Brook Ave, this guy comes in with his wife and we start talking. I asked where they are from. He said he was from Brook Ave....come to find out his first girlfriend was my older sister Ann. We are talking about the late 50's. Take care-[email protected]

Hi Craig, I remember you hanging in Peter's yard. I live across the alley from Peter's at 164C. Sometimes I use to say, guys can you keep it down a little, my kids are sleeping lol, but you did. I do miss Rota. She use to ask my husband to fix things for her. The last time I saw Peter he was up for a visit with a girl [Holly Bugge Reiss] and I think she had two kids [Eric and Holly]. He introduced me to her. That's the last time I saw him and Rota told me what happened. I felt so bad for her.
I couldn't wait to send this site to my sister Alyce. When I saw Maggie's picture I remembered her in my house with Alyce. Kenny Attis lived across the street from us so it was good to see him. I have been coming to the site for awhile. My brother Kenny gave it to me. I sent it to Alyce, now I will tell Jeanne. Well Craig, you did a great job. I enjoy it so much. Love checking it out to see what's new. Thanks. Annmarie (Banker) Spencer- Pollie[email protected]

Jennifer Correa writes:

Hi Craig,
My name is Jennifer Roselli (Correa).  I am the youngest of the Correa's that lived at 29-C. My cousin Denise Gralton told me about your website...and it is fantastic!  I just loved looking at all the pictures and seeing all of those familiar names.  I was born in 1975 and spent my whole life in Edgewater until moving out in 1999 when I got married.  I now live in Arizona. My brother Sal (the oldest) lives in Middletown, NY with his wife Janet Krause (who also grew up in Edgewater).  My sister Linda lives in Florida with her husband Tommy Demonica (also from Edgewater), and my other sister Jan lives in Connecticut.  My sisters Debbie and Patty both live in Dutchess County as does my mom Alice. Unfortunately we lost our dad in 1998. Our house had burned down when I was about 10 years old and we don't have many pictures from when we were growing up, so seeing some of your photos really brought back great memories.  I try to explain to people what it was like growing up in Edgewater, but there are no words to describe it.  I had a great childhood, and wouldn't have changed a thing! Thanks again for all of your work!  [email protected]

Take care,
Jennifer

  Kristy Pecoroni writes:

I grew up in Edgewater Park and moved to Florida in 1996. My mother is Kathryn Gibbons (now Pecoroni). Her sister is Diane Gibbons (she was in one of the St. Frances pictures) My father is Joseph Pecoroni. We lived in 52 A for about 12 years and my mother grew up there with her parents John and Florence Gibbons. I really enjoyed looking through your web site. Thanks!!!
 
Kristy Repyneck (Pecoroni) [email protected]
Edgewater, Florida

    Ronnie Donnellan (Salinas) writes:

Hi Craig,

My name is Ronnie (Donnellan) Salinas. My brothers and I once lived at 134-C, but moved away in 1961. I had the opportunity to take my family to the Park for a visit. It was wonderful! I took a picture of my 20 year old son, Alex, sitting in the same spot my Dad, John Donnellan, sat in at the water's edge, all those years ago. It was quite moving for me. My brother Peter sent me your wonderful website, and I'm enjoying going through it slowly. We moved to California to live with my sister and her husband after Daddy died. Redondo Beach seemed like the other side of the universe back then. Once again, thank you for bringing back such wonderful memories. My 'big' brothers Joe, Willy (Kipp), and Peter will be better historians than I will be, so I'll let them know. I DO remember the ice skating pond! I also received some swimming medals, and fondly remember Labor Day festivities. When we were there last month, I asked my son what he thought of the place, and he said, "This must have been a cool place to grow up as kid!" Apparently, he was right!

Ronnie wrote back with pictures. See them on the NEIGHBORS page.

Enclosed please find a picture of my Dad, John Donnellan. He was an Irish immigrant born in 1905. He and my mother, Sarah (Mulligan), moved to 134-C in 1957. My mom died that year in November, leaving Daddy to care for me, Peter, William and Joe. He worked in the city at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and returned home every evening at 6 PM. My brothers, most especially Peter, had the responsibility of caring for me, (I was six), and the house, etc. while Daddy was at work. My Dad loved to sit in this spot many evenings, and would sometimes hold a fishing pole. Often I'd sit beside him and we'd leave as the sun was setting. To this day, I always say "Good night Daddy" when I see the sun going down. Daddy died in May of 1961 and that's when Peter and I moved to California. If you notice in the picture of me and my son, Alex, and in Dad's picture, there is the same rock in the water! Also, the light pole by the jetty behind him is still "listing" 46 years later. And notice the house in the background appears to have barely changed! Once again, thank you for your efforts. You have no idea how much this means to me and I'm sure many others.
Sincerely, Ronnie Donnellan Salinas from 134-C  

Ronnie  wrote:

Just when I think that I won't recognize another person on the website, a name from the past pops up. Jigsy O'Rourke was my friend and my neighbor. I still have a little religious medal of Mary that he gave me when I left the Bronx. I'm looking at it now, and remember what a sweet boy he was. God rest his soul.

He lived directly to the side of my place. he lived right next to the Coulter's (Ray). I don't recall who lived on the other side. I do still keep in touch with Jackie McGinty who lived at 129-C. I think her Mom still lives there.

Donnie Fecher writes: 

Louise Hakans wrote:  Ralph, Muriel, Louise, Ralphy, Patricia, Michael, Marlene, Linda & Barbara (twins) Hakans. All raised in 37-D. I was actually born in that house (1947). I left and moved to Florida in 1965 .  Some more names are: Liz Reith: 119-B, Bumper, Jimmy & Eleanor Grace: 31-D, Peggy & Billy Galm: 31-D, Cathy Twomey: 36-D, Cahill: 34-D,  Connors: 35-D , Bear: 38-D .  Add these names to your list please, are you looking for dates when people lived there?  Looking for photo's.  Someone mentioned a reunion I am all for it. Labor Day Weekend 2008. Great site you'll be hearing from me again soon.  

Louise Marie Hakans Donnelly Rhoades   [email protected]   (I live in Englewood, Florida now)

Here are two pictures when Jo (Meagh) and Jack Gress visited us in November ['08]. We took them to our favorite beach, Honeymoon Island. We always loved the beach and continue that joy in our retirement.

Lucille & Tommy Miazga

Lucille and Tommy Miazga- E-email address is: [email protected]