May 12, 2011
Good Thursday Afternoon, Vince R. —— May 12:
Just a follow up note to say that I’m glad we talked and got to know another fellow that lived in the “old neighborhood.”
Vince, as I mentioned my grandfather, Leopoldo Tarsitano and Rosie lived at 180 Forquer (later, 729 Arthington), an empty lot away from the Garippo building. Leo came in late 1890′s and Rosie thereafter a couple of years later.
After a few years here, they saved their money and bought the 180 Forquer Bldg. and opened a local grocery business in 1908, raised 6 children, 5 passed away at very early in life, after several months of life…
As you certainly know, the neighborhood was bought by the City for the Dan Ryan. I’m sure you know the rest of the story. In the late 40′s and early 50′s, we all moved in to the suburbs, mostly West.
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Yes, I have been very close to Uncle Emil and Aunt Jessie Tarsitano Garippo, especially while they were living in Elmhurst. And, I have a great deal of admiration for them and especially their three children, Mike, Emil Jr. and Tommie Garippo Hoffman.
I am in touch with Emil Jr. who has helped enormously with the Tarsitano Novel as well as help from Thomasine G. Hoffman.
In any event, Let’s stay in touch and tell Jimmy Tars we spoke.
Thanks for your work on the Taylor Street Archives. It’s a marvelous history that has to be told.
Vince Romano and family —— “The Best to you and your family”!!!
Bob and Betty Tarsitano
P.S. We’ll stay in touch and very glad we got to speak with each other.