LNOSTRA-COSTA BLOG OVERVIEW

SEARCHING FOR SOMETHING???

 I have posted below links of some articles that were previously published on this blog. Simply "clicca" on the link and it will take you to the article.




Remembrance of Joey Della Mora killed in a tragic accident on the Della Mora Ranch (formerly the Lorenzi Ranch)
http://nostra-costa.blogspot.com/2011/07/figlio-di-figli-della-costa-joseph-joey.html

Article with historic photos of the Scaroni Family sent to me by LaNorma and Al.
http://nostra-costa.blogspot.com/2011/10/lanorma-and-al-send-us-photos-of.html

Davenport-North Coast 2o11 Reunion with photos.
http://nostra-costa.blogspot.com/2011/09/davenport-north-coast-reunion-2011.html

Newspaper article with photo of Committee members for the first ever Davenport-North Coast Reunion
http://nostra-costa.blogspot.com/2011/05/first-davenport-coast-road-reunion-1977.html

Barbara Silva Wagner honors our Veterans by remembering what it was like growing up in Santa Cruz, during WW II.
http://nostra-costa.blogspot.com/2011/11/november-11-2011-veterans-day-we-honor.html

'CLICCA' ON THE LINK PROVIDE AT THE END OF EACH ARTICLE.


The "Blagga's" first year was 2006. (Coincidentally, "La Nostra Costa" (Our Coast) was published in 2006):



August 2, 2006 - CARABINIERE - "THE GHOST WHO WALKED" - A story about one of Davenport's most legendary characters and the mystery of what might have happened to him after his death.

www.nostra-costa.blogspot.com/2006/08/ghost-who-walked.html




Aug 8, 2006 - HUGO'S LETTER- Hugo Bianchini of Monterey, gives his best review of "La Nostra Costa" and links it to his own personal experiences growing up in a different locale.
http://nostra-costa.blogspot.com/2006/08/hugos-letter.html






Sep 6,2006 - THE RANCERE's LAMENT - BY RITA (FRANCESCHINI) GIANNADREA- Rita, who grew up "su per la costa" captures the true essence of the "Rancere's Lament", as it appears in "La Nostra Costa. http://nostra-costa.blogspot.com/2006/09/essence-of-ranceres-lament.html





August 10, 2006 - IL FAMOSO BAFFI - A short bio of Guglielmo 'Baffi" Campioni by his son Gino Campioni - Describes the life and times of one of the most colorful ranchers "su per la costa".
www.nostra-costa.blogspot.com/2006/08/il-famoso-baffi.html



Sep 4,2006 - A WHITE SPORTS COAT AND A PINK CARNATION - Carol (Costella) Swartz
remembers Santa Cruz and a certain fellow who went out with her sister Pat. A very charming story. http://nostra-costa.blogspot.com/2006/11/white-sport-coat-and-pink-carnation.html


Oct 23, 2006 - FIGLIO DI SANTA CROCE LEN KLEMPNAUER- Len describes the efforts of his German American Family as they establish themselves in Santa Cruz. Not too surprisingly
they were very similar to those experienced by the Italian immigrants. htmlcosta.blogspot.com/2006/10/figlio-di-santa-croce-len-klempnauer.html

Nov 5, 2006 - FROM SANTA RADICCHIO TO SANTA ROSA- What starts out as a discussion of Chiogga Beets and Radicchio turns out to be a very interesting story of Italian World War II prisoners who settled in Santa Rosa. www.nostra-costa.blogspot.com/2006/11/from-santa-radicchio-to-santa-rosa.html

Nov 11, 2006 - PETE PIANAVILLA VS FORREST McDERMOTT - The story of a colorful coastal "poacher" and a zealous Game Warden who confront each other "su per la costa". www.nostra-costa.blogspot.com/2006/11/pete-pianavilla-vs-forrest-mcdermott.html








Nov 21 and 27 2006 - FIGLIA DELLA COSTA NORMA (DINELLI) WILSON PART I AND PART II - The story of a little girl growing up 'su per la costa".


www.nostra-costa.blogspot.com/2006/11/figlia-della-costa-norma-dinelli.html


Dec 4, 2006 - FIGLIO DELLA COSTA LIEUTENANT ATTILIO JOSEPH DOGLIOTTI REMEMBERED - A remembrance of one 0f the first Santa Cruzans of Italian descent to be killed in World War II. www.nostra-costa.blogspot.com/2006/12/figlio-della-costa-lieutenant-attilio.html



Dec 9, 2006 - FIGLIA DI SANTA CROCE - MARGARET GHIO-HARTMAN - Tells the story of Italian immigrant fishermen struggling in Santa Cruz under "Enemy Alien Restrictions" during World War II. www.nostra-costa.blogspot.com/2006/12/figlia-di-santa-croce-margaret-ghio.html


Dec 13, 2006 - DISASTRI DI SANTA CROCE - Robert Lemmon Jr. remembers certain disasters that befell Santa Cruz and request further info on same. http://nostra-costa.blogspot.com/2006/12/disastros-di-santa-croce.htmlcosta.blogspot.com/2006/12/disastros-di-santa-croce.html



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The following articles were published in 2007 :



March 22, 2007 - GINO'S OFFICIAL ITANGLISH DICTIONARY - Gino Campioni spent a considerable amount of time composing this dictionary of "Italianized" words. One of the "Blaggas" most favorite publications. http://www.nostra-costa.blogspot.com/2007/03/ginos-official-itanglish-dictionary.htmldictionary.htmlofficial-itanglish-dictionary.html

June 23, 2007 - AMICA DELLA COSTA CATHY BROVIA - REMEMBERS - Cathy tells the story of growing up in a small town in Minnesota during hard times. www.nostra-costa.blogspot.com/2007/06/amica-della-costa-cathy-brovia.html



July 4, 2007 - PRIMO CARNERA - FIGLIO DEL FRIULI - A short Bio by Doriano Degano of
Primo Carnera, former Heavyweight Champion of the World and a fan favorite "su per la costs". www.nostra-costa.blogspot.com/2007/07/figlio-del-friuli-primo-carnera.html

July 12, 2007 - HAPPY BIRTHDAY FIGLIO DELLA COSTA - MARVIN DEL CHIARO - Marvin celebrates his 70th birthday with a bio of his family who lived and worked "su per la costa". www.nostra-costa.blogspot.com/2007/07/happy-birthday-figlio-della-costa.html



July 26, 2007 - SPROUZZI ALA JOUNZZI - Russ Jones a former San Jose Police Officer recalls some boyhood memories of Hwy 17 and Santa Cruz. He also sends along a recipe for one of his favorite dishes featuring Brussel Sprouts. His follow up article on January 21, 2008 - SPROUZZI ALLA JOUNZZI 2 - features his favorite recipe for Osso Buco (w/Brussel Sprouts)
and much more. Buono Appitito . www.nostra-costa.blogspot.com/2007/07/sprouzzi-ala-jounzzi.html



July 30, 2007 - COLLISION COURSE: THE DELUCCA ACCIDENT - A dissertation by Ivano Comelli as to how one of the worse traffic accidents in Davenport history happened and how it might have been avoided.
http://nostra-costa.blogspot.com/2007/07/collision-course-delucca-accident.html





August 5, 2007 - RICHARD HUERTA - FALLEN OFFICER - REMEMBERED - A remembrance by Ivano Comelli regarding his best friend, San Jose Police Officer Richard Huerta, killed in the line of duty Aug. 6, 1970. http://nostra-costa.blogspot.com/2007/08/fallen-officer-richard-huerta.html


August 28, 2007 - "LA STORIA DI ADA" BY GINO CAMPIONI - Gino tells the story of his beloved mother Ada (Berti) Campioni. Ada and her husband 'Baffi' lived in Santa Cruz for many years. http://nostra-costa.blogspot.com/2007/04/la-storia-di-ada-by-gino-campioni.html


Oct 1, 2007 - RAMANDOLO/NIMIS/FRIULI CON FOTOS - Prof. Derrill Kerrick and wife Kathy send us some interesting photos taken during their trip to Friuli. http://nostra-costa.blogspot.com/2007/10/ramandolonimisfriuli-con-fotos.htmlcosta.blogspot.com/2007/10/ramandolonimisfriuli-con-fotos.html




Oct 5, 2007 - FIGLI DELLA COSTA - SUPREME SACRIFICE - A remembrance of Amadeo Lucchesi and Atilio Dogliotti who were killed in World War II. http://nostra-costa.blogspot.com/2007/10/figlio-medeo-lucchesi-revisited.html

Oct 14, 2007 - LaNORMA: O DIO CHE TRENO LUNGO - A little girl's memories of the Old Train that used to travel to and from Santa Cruz and Davenport every day. http://nostra-costa.blogspot.com/2007/10/lanorma-o-dio-che-treno-lungo.html

Nov 5, 2007 - LOU MORO: FURLAN, AMICO DELLA COSTA, AMERICAN - A remembrance of one of Santa Cruz's best loved man. http://nostra-costa.blogspot.com/2007/11/lou-moro-furlan-amico-della-costa.html


Nov 17, 2007 - ITALIAN FAMILY NAMES - 'LA NOSTRA COSTA' - A list of family names associated with the 'La Nostra Costa' story compiled from memory by Gino Campioni and others. http://nostra-costa.blogspot.com/2007/11/family-names-santa-cruz-la-costa.html

Dec 7, 2007 - THELMA (MICOSSI) GILL - EYEWITNESS REPORT TO THE BURNING OF THE HOTEL D'ITALIA - Thelma tells of her memories of the night in 1945 when one of the famous hotels in Davenport burned to the ground. http://nostra-costa.blogspot.com/2007/12/thelma-micossi-gill-eyewitness-report.html

Dec 25, 2007 - HATCH MAP - THE 'OLD COAST ROAD - Bryan Robinson sends a copy of 1859 Hatch Map that depicts La Nostra Costa as it once was. http://nostra-costa.blogspot.com/2007/12/hatch-map-old-coast-road.html


Dec 29, 2007 - DAVENPORT- A MOMENT IN TIME - A delightful story by Patty Morelli based on her memories growing up in Davenport in the 1940s -50s. http://nostra-costa.blogspot.com/2007/12/davenport-moment-in-time.html


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The Following articles were published in 2008:

Jan 5, 2008 - ADDIO MI BELLA GILDA- A remembrance of Gilda Stagnaro of Gilda's Restaurant, 0ne of the best known and best loved women of Santa Cruz. http://nostra-costa.blogspot.com/2008/01/addio-mi-bella-gilda.html

Jan 9, 2008 - THE 'DAVENPORT DESTROYER' HAS A BENCH- Cathy Brovia describes her successful quest in getting a BENCH in memory of her beloved husband, Hall of Famer, Joe Brovia 'The Davenport Destroyer', established in 'La Barranca Park' in Santa Cruz. http://nostra-costa.blogspot.com/2008/01/davenport-destroyer-has-bench.html

Jan 29, 2008 - LA NOSTRA COSTA - THOUGHTS AND RECOLLECTIONS BY LaNORMA
LaNorma -recalls more of her memories including story's about the DMV in Santa Cruz. http://nostra-costa.blogspot.com/2008/01/la-nostra-costa-thoughts-and.html

Feb 8, 2008 - THE FAMILY QUILICI BY NANCY (QUILICI) JACOBS - Nancy Jacobs writes a bio of her family who lived and worked on a ranch just north of Davenport. Nancy recalls some of her memories as a little girl growing up on that ranch. http://nostra-costa.blogspot.com/2008/02/family-quilici-by-nancy-quilici-jacobs.htmlcosta.blogspot.com/2008/02/family-quilici-by-nancy-quilici-jacobs.html

Feb 20, 2008 - WELCOME GABRIELE CARMINE FALVO-CITRIGNO - Gabe tells us about his family who used to own the Napoli Cafe in San Jose. http://nostra-costa.blogspot.com/2008/02/welcome-gabriele-carmine-falvo-citrigno.html



March 15, 2008 - AMICO DELLA COSTA: LUIGI 'MORO' DEGLI ESPOSTI - Roberto Degli Esposti writes a bio on his father 'Moro' Degli Esposti and tells the story of his family's immigration from Italy to "La Costa" shortly after World War II. http://nostra-costa.blogspot.com/2008/03/amico-della-costa-luigi-moro-degli.html




April 21, 2008 - DAVEPORT JAIL: PHOTOS PLEASE - Alverda Orlando announces that the "Old Davenport Jail" is open for business (for tours, I mean). She requests old photos to display. http://nostra-costa.blogspot.com/2008/04/davenport-jail-photos-please.html

May 30, 2008 - LaNORMA: MORE 'LA NOSTRA COSTA' FAMILY NAMES - LaNorma submits additional Italian names to augment Gino Campioni's original list. http://nostra-costa.blogspot.com/2008/05/lanorma-more-la-nostra-costa-family.html

July 2, 2008 - THE STORY OF 'BONZO' DA DEERHEAD' - Patty Morelli subits a charming story of 'Bonzo' the deerhead that hung on the wall of Charlie Bella's Ocean View Hotel in Davenport . http://nostra-costa.blogspot.com/2008/07/story-of.html






July 20, 2008 - IL CAPITANO MICOSSI AND THE FUSARI FAMILY- Jolene Fusari sends us a bio (with photos) on the Fusari Family and La Nostra Costa's Frank Micossi whose mother, Rosina, was a Fusari. http://nostra-costa.blogspot.com/2008/07/il-capitano-frank-micossi-and-fusari.html


Sept 6, 2008 - MAL OCCHIO BY LAWRENCE DISTASI- A bio of Prof. Lawrence Distasi, Project Director of "Una Storia Segreta", and a review of his book, "Mal Occhio" (The Evil Eye)http://nostra-costa.blogspot.com/2008/09/mal-occhio-by-lawrence-distasi.html


Sept 19, 2008 - THE KING OF JORDON VISITS THE WHALE CITY BAKERY-DAVENPORT
LaNorma submits a true story regarding a visit by the King of Jordon as told to her by Bakery employees. http://nostra-costa.blogspot.com/2008/09/king-of-jordon-visits-whale-city-bakery.html



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The following article were published in 2009:

Jan 27, 2009 - MRS. HELEN SONNEBORN'S CITIZENSHIP CLASS - 1945 - The re-production of an article appearing in the Santa Cruz Sentinel announcing the newly made US Citizens (including my mother, Valentina Comelli) of Santa Cruz County. http://nostra-costa.blogspot.com/2009/01/mrs-helen-sonneborns-citizenship-class.html


April 7, 2009 - FIGHTING FURLANS OF WW II BY DORIANO DEGANO - A true story of bravery and hardships endured by Furlan and other Italian soldiers fighting for Italy during WW II. http://nostra-costa.blogspot.com/2009/04/fighting-furlans-of-ww-ii-by-doriano.html

July 16, 2009 - NANNETTE MORGAN'S FAMILY STORY- Nannette writes a bio on her family including her own memories about growing up in Salinas, Ca. http://nostra-costa.blogspot.com/2009/07/nannette-morgans-family-story.html

July 23, 2009 - AN OX'S TALE - ANON FURLAN - An amusing, yet true, story of a Furlan, his wife and two Oxen. http://nostra-costa.blogspot.com/2009/07/oxs-tale-anon-furlana.html




Sep 2, 2009 - A 'LA NOSTRA COSTA' SOLDIERS STORY - NANCY JACOBS - A bio of Guliano Quilici (Nancy's brother) who served in the Pacific Theatre (including Iwo Jima) during WW II. http://nostra-costa.blogspot.com/2009/09/la-nostra-costa-soldiers-story-nancy.html






p>Nov 6, 2009 - STORIES OF THE 'OLD COAST ROAD' BY LaNORMA - Once again LaNorma digs deep into her bag of memories to recall some amusing stories (some about the CHP) that occurred on the Coast Road. http://nostra-costa.blogspot.com/2009/11/stories-of-old-coast-road-by-lanorma.html





Nov 16, 2009 - MICHAEL NANNA REMEMBERS SANTA CRUZ - A bio and boyhood memories of a former Santa Cruzan. http://nostra-costa.blogspot.com/2009/11/michael-nanna-remembers-santa-cruz-2nd.html




Nov 28, 2009 -'PANE AMARAO' (BITTER BREAD) FOR THANKSGIVING - A synopsis and review of Gianfranco Norelli's documentary film about the struggles of early Italian immigrants upon their arrival in l'america. http://nostra-costa.blogspot.com/2009/11/pane-amaro-bitter-bread-for.html

Dec 12, 2009 - COAST ROAD BLOG - The 'blagga' finds Anneliese Agren's new Coast Road Blog on the net: http://www.coastroad.wordpress.com/



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The following articles were published in 2010:

March 3, 2010 - THE GREAT POLENTA CONTROVERSY - A re-print of Santa Cruz Sentinel columnist Donna Maurillo's article on 'quick and easy polenta'. This article caused great controversy among the 'traditional slow-cook' polenta lovers. http://nostra-costa.blogspot.com/2010/03/great-polenta-controversy.html





July 18, 2010 - FIGHTING FURLANS (CONT'D) - BY RENO DI CISTERNIA - An incredible but true story of hardships faced by Italian soldiers fighting on the Russian Front during WW II. http://nostra-costa.blogspot.com/2010/07/fighting-furlans-ii-by-reno-di.html

Aug 28, 2010 - LA NOSTRA COSTA DAYS REVIVAL - SPECIAL GUEST - LIDO CANATARUTTI - A bio on Figlio della Costa, and Director of the Italian Film Festival of Marin ( http://www.italianfilm.com/ ) who braved the rain all the way from San Raphael to be our very special guest at LNCD Revival II. Thanks again, Lido. http://nostra-costa.blogspot.com/2010/08/la-nostra-costa-days-revival-speical.html


Sep 20, 2010 - AN AMERICAN STORY BY GINO CAMPIONI - A story of hardships faced by the Okamoto Family of Portland, Oregon under 'Enemy Alien' restrictions during WW II. http://nostra-costa.blogspot.com/2010/09/american-story-by-gino-campioni.html


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IVANO SAYS (CONT'D): There are many others of course. To view all articles in the LNostra Costa archives, simply click on the year (right hand side of the blog page),
then scroll down the retrieved page. (You may have to click on "Older" at the bottom of the page to continue.) I want to thank everyone for submitting their aritcles - without a doubt -the reason for the 'blagga's" success. Sempre Avanti and Happy New Year.



BTW: You can also retrieve many articles pertaining to "La Nostra Costa" by "googling": la nostra costa blog

PLAYBALL!! GO A'S!!

KRISTIAN 'KK' KNOWLES - ALL STAR PITCHER                                                            

WITH ALL-STAR COACH BRIAN BANTILAN

UPDATED: JUNE 19, 2012.  THE A'S HAD A GREAT SEASON. THE TEAM WAS IN THE MORGAN HILL PONY CHAMPIONSHIP GAME. UNFORTUANTELY THEY LOST SO THEY GAME IN AT 2ND PLACE.  KRISTIAN HAD A GREAT SEASON AND WAS SELECTED TO THE ALL-STAR TEAM.  CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL.  SEMPRE AVANTI. IVN0

DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME IS HERE! SO IS OPENING DAY FOR MORGAN HILL PONY BASEBALL. TOP PHOTO :THE 2012 ATHLETICS, LED BY GRANDSON KRISTIAN "KK" KNOWLES (HOLDING SIGN AT CENTER) AND COACH ROBERT ORTIZ (THE GUY WITH THE GLASSES ON THE RIGHT). BOTTOM PHOTO: "KK" WITH GRANDPA IVAN(O). GOOD LUCK, A's ! SEMPRE AVANTI (ALWAYS FORWARD).

Update: A's win. KK goes two for three, 2 RBI's, one run scored. Earns a Save by pitching the final two innings in relief. Was aided in the last inning by a double play ground ball , skillfully turned by his Team Mates. Congrats A's. Sempre Avanti.

KK GETTING READY TO 'CRACK' ONE!

REMEMBERING SANTA CRUZAN FRED FEHN

IVANO SAYS: THE BELOW REMEMBRANCE OF SANTA CRUZAN AND FOOTBALL PLAYER FRED FEHN FIRST APPEARED IN THE SANTA CRUZ SENTINEL: www.santacruzsentinel.com

Alfred P. Fehn
Oct. 28, 1935-June 6, 2012
Resident of Santa Cruz
Alfred "Fred" Fehn, age 76, passed away in the comfort of his Bonny Doon home while surrounded by family on Wednesday, June 6, 2012. His death followed an illness with melanoma.
Born October 28, 1935, Fred was a Santa Cruz native, graduated from Santa Cruz High School in 1954 and attended Hartnell College in Salinas. He was center for the Oakland Raiders from 1959-60 and left the National football League after incurring a serious back injury. He later served 25 years with the California Department of Forestry in working with troubled youth at the Empire Grade Boy's Camp.
Fred also operated a Christmas tree farm for many years where he sold trees to local families and made annual tree donations to local charity groups. He will be remembered for his gentle and selfless character that was evident even through the last stages of life.
Survivors include his wife of 43 years, Joyce Fehn; two sisters, Claudia Bei and Manette Miller; brother, Albert Fehn, numerous nieces and nephews, and his beloved dog, Ani.
The family requests donations are sent to the people who gave such wonderful care for Fred in his time of need at Hospice of Santa Cruz County, 940 Disc Drive, Scotts Valley, CA 95066 or the Santa Cruz Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals at PO Box 3800, Santa Cruz, CA 95063.

IVANO SAYS (CONT'D):  I had the privilege to play football with Fred on the Santa Cruz High Team of  1953-54. (Very little since I got hurt very early that year.)He was part of the "Twin Tackles" , with Hank Papa  playing the other tackle. Both were gigantic (in terms of those days) weighing well over 200 lbs.  The two struck terror in the hearts of many opposing players.  They are both gone now, but we will always remember their achievements in life.  Addio Fred.  Until we mee again "Across Il Ulitmo Ponte" ("The Last Bridge").

GINO REMEMBERS SANTA CRUZAN SPIRO MELLIS (AND OTHERS)

                                              Signore GINO CAMPIONI

IVANO SAYS: I received this interesting e-mail from Gino Campioni. He starts out by remembering the name of his (our) kindergarten teacher at Laurel School (now the Louden Nelson Community Center) in Santa Cruz, then adds his remembrances of Spiro Mellis who owned Mellis Market on Mission Street. 

Ciao, Ivano,

After all these many weeks, the name of the Kindergarten teacher that you, your brother and I had, came to me. (must be a case of brain

getting low on fuel)

Miss Fischer (or was it Fisher?) was the one who tried to restrain Donald “Buster” Jones by tying him to his chair with yarn. That lasted

less than ten seconds. She gave up and probably took another aspirin break.

Why do I remember this now? Funny you should ask. I sometimes reply to Publishers’ Clearing House stuff, including using their search

feature. Today I looked up Spiro Mellis. Did you ever meet him? He attended Santa Cruz H.S. and was my age. (3 years older than you.)

He was Greek, of course, and had that marvelous hair which was dense and curly, giving the appearance of his wearing a brown football helmet.

He was constantly bothered by classmates wanting to mash his hair down, and watch it spring right back into shape when released.

To my regret, I found that Spiro, who was my best friend in 1945-6

went “back home to his ancestors” in 2008. He was such an outstanding student that our principal and 6th grade teacher, Mr. Brown

coached Spiro so he could skip the 7th grade. For that reason, I never saw him in school again, but on occasion at the beautiful market

that his father had established at the corner of Mission St. and Van Ness Ave. and the running of which he took over when his father

Foti Mellis retired. Looking on data found about Spiro, there is much of what he has done for Santa Cruz, including serving on the city

council, founding an annual Greek celebration with traditional Greek foods, etc. I had wanted to find his E-mail address, to tell him how

much I appreciated his friendship and the fun times we had together. Now that will have to wait.

So, Ivano, I guess if I want to remember something of the past, I should remember to work around the subject. Eventually the lamp

will light up.

Trusting all is well with you,

ti auguro tutte le cose migliori.

Saluti, Gino

By the way: We have a new full-time missionary in our group whose name is Migliori. Seeing it on his badge, I greeted him with,

“Buon giorno, Anziano Migliori!” “You know of course that it means, THE BEST?” He turned to the other three elders, and said,

“See? I told you so!” Unfortunately, as most third generation offspring of Italians won’t pronounce their names right. “Mig-Lorry”

is what he says. ARRGHH!

IVANO SAYS (CONT'D):  Thanks Gino. Now you know how I feel when some people pronounce my name "Eye-vano".  Double ARRGGHH!  

BTW: If you have not had the pleasure of viewing Gino's ITANGLISH DICTIONARY please "clicca" on this link:

http://nostra-costa.blogspot.com/2007/03/ginos-official-itanglish-dictionary.html

REMEMBERING "FIGLIO DI SANTA CROCE' (SON OF SANTA CRUZ) ROBERT 'BIG BOY'' STAGNARO

IVANO SAYS: The below article on the death of Robert "Big Boy" Staganaro was first pubished in the Santa Cruz Sentinel:  www.santacruzsentinel.com  

  

Icon of Santa Cruz Municipal Wharf, Robert Stagnaro, dies at 83

By Stephen Baxter - Santa Cruz Sentinelsantacruzsentinel.com

SANTA CRUZ — A longtime restaurant manager and fixture at the Santa Cruz Municipal Wharf, Robert Armand “Big Boy” Stagnaro, died Friday morning at his home in Santa Cruz. He was 83.

Stagnaro was the youngest of 13 children and began working at the wharf as a boy. He later co-founded Malio's restaurant — which the family sold in 1979 — and Gilda's restaurant, which he helped manage until a recent illness.

Laura Paz, one of Stagnaro's five children, said Friday that her father died from congestive heart failure and other complications. He had been in the Hospice of Santa Cruz County in Scotts Valley for about six months.

View or sign a memorial guest book for Robert Stagnaro

The well-known Stagnaro family has roots on the wharf back to the 1870s, and family members Friday said they fielded many calls of condolences.

“We really appreciate all the support from everybody,” Paz said. “We're so overwhelmed right now. We just want to give a heartfelt thanks to Santa Cruz County for loving our dad so much.”

Robert Stagnaro was born in 1928 at Hanley Hospital, which once stood on West Cliff Drive near Cowell Beach. Born prematurely at roughly 1 1/2 pounds, a nurse at the hospital jested what a “big boy” he was.

The nickname stuck. From there, Robert's young life revolved around the wharf.

Robert drove a “saltwater taxi” from the wharf to sport fishing boats. He also worked as a fish seller and made seafood deliveries across the region.

“He grew up in the family's fishing business,” said Geoffrey Dunn, Robert's nephew and godson.

“He tried to be upbeat and joyous as much as possible. Like all the Italians on the wharf, he could occasionally get agitated, but for me he was always a steady hand.”

During the Korean War, Robert served in the U.S. Navy. He also helped build Miramar Naval Air Station near San Diego and was honorably discharged in 1954, his family said.

He married Joan Brookman and had three boys and two girls. Joan died in 1988.

“My dad just loved people and he loved Santa Cruz, his hometown,” said Leta Stagnaro, one of his daughters.

He later co-founded Malio's restaurant on the wharf, which he ran with sister Yolanda “Lindy” Stagnaro Dunn. Robert later co-managed Gilda's Restaurant, named for his sister.

Gilda's is part of C. Stagnaro Fishing Co., which is not connected to the Stagnaro Bros. Seafood Inc., also on the wharf.

As a fan of Bing Crosby, big band tunes often wafted through the restaurants around Christmas, his family said. Robert had a valuable Bing Crosby collection that included photos and rare vinyl recordings.

He met Crosby at events in Pebble Beach and occasionally gave Bing Crosby presentations at schools. Robert also was a longtime fan of the New York Yankees.

“He had a beautiful life,” said Robert's sister, Lindy Stagnaro Dunn. She turns 97 on Sunday.

She added that Robert was fortunate to pass away as he wanted — at home with his family.

“It seems strange that he's gone and I'm still here.”

Geoffrey Dunn said Robert was like a second father to him.

“He and his wife and his cousins always provided me with a sanctuary all my life. I was with him on Wednesday and he grabbed my hand and didn't want me to leave,” Geoffrey Dunn said. “He told me how much he loved me.”

Robert is survived by his sister and five children: Malio Stagnaro, William Stagnaro, Robert “Dino” Stagnaro, Leta Stagnaro and Laura Paz.

A public visitation is planned for 2-7 p.m. Thursday at Benito & Azzaro Pacific Gardens Chapel, 1050 Cayuga St. in Santa Cruz.

Follow Sentinel reporter Stephen Baxter on Twitter @sbaxter_sc

ROBERT ‘BIG BOY' STAGNARO

BORN: July 16, 1928

DIED: May 25, 2012

OCCUPATION: Co-manager of Gilda's Restaurant, co-founder of Malio's Restaurant, both on the Santa Cruz Municipal Wharf

EDUCATION: Santa Cruz High School, class of 1946

MILITARY SERVICE: U.S. Navy 3rd Class aviation storekeeper. Honorably discharged in 1954.

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: Former president of the Santa Cruz Host Lions Club

SURVIVORS: Sister, Yolanda ‘Lindy' Stagnaro Dunn; children, Malio Stagnaro, William Stagnaro, Robert ‘Dino' Stagnaro, Leta Stagnaro and Laura Paz.

SERVICES: A public visitation will be 2-7 p.m. Thursday at Benito & Azzaro Pacific Gardens Chapel, 1050 Cayuga St. in Santa Cruz.

Addio Robert, until we met again across "Il Ultimo Ponte" (The Last Bridge).

 

Copyright 2012 Santa Cruz Sentinel. All rights reserved.

LA NOSTRA-COSTA (OUR COAST) BOOK REVIEW BY NINETTE BAVARO-LATRONICA

• 

  
   
• 
  
• NINETTE BAVARO-LATRONICA wrote this to amazon...

  What initially interested me in this book was curiosity, as I have an interest in the history of California agriculture, and the contribution of the Italian immigrants who, with their skills, knowledge and work ethic raised the food that many ate all over the country . Mr Comelli brought to life what it was like to be raised in a farming family on the part of the California coast just north of Santa Cruz. There is little documentation about Davenport and its history of neither farming nor the immigrants who farmed during the first half of the 20th century, as many of the buildings and the farms are now gone. Sad to say, there are many parts of California that shares this lack good documentation of the truthful history of who contributed to the success of this great state. I enjoyed Mr. Comelli’s writing in first person, as it was as if he were having a friendly conversation about the events in his life. I enjoyed hearing not only of his immediate family, but of the neighbors, how they interacted with one another, and the long term relationships they continued to have throughout their lives. This book was written from the heart! By him writing this book, he has not only brought to life the people of the area he was raised, but he conserved their memories.
• THANKS NINETTE.  SEMPRE AVANTI.  IVANO 

THE BEST OF SAYINGS BY MEZZO-PRETE (FMIP)

IVANO SAYS: During the last several weeks we all have been greatly sadden by the passing of our La Nostra Costa Friends and Relatives. I thought it appropriate to take a break and insert a bit of humor. I have been posting on Facebook the below sayings from the Book of Sayings by Mezzo-Prete, Famous Medi-evil Italian Philosopher (FMIP). I know that some of my "Blaggatori" do not belong to Facebook, so I thought I would post for those who don't do Facebook, some of the "best-sayings" by Mezzo-Prete.







Mezzo-Prete (FMIP) says: "Imitation often best form of flattery."










From the Book of Sayings of Mezzo-Prete (FMIP): "When dining with friends, advised to use best table manners."















From the Book of Sayings of Mezzo-Prete (FMIP): "When helping friends be prepared to put your back into it."












From the Book of Sayings of Mezzo-Prete (FMIP): Long journey made more enjoyable with a travelling companion."













FROM THE BOOK OF SAYINGS OF MEZZO-PRETE, FMIP: "When friend comes up with bad idea, best to just sit on it."




FROM THE BOOK OF SAYINGS OF MEZZO PRETE, FMIP: "OLD BUGGY WITH ONE HORSE, ALWAYS BETTER THAN OLD BUGGY WITH NO HORSE."
.







FROM THE BOOK OF SAYINGS OF MEZZO-PRETE, FMIP: "WHEN WALKING DOG, BEST TO GET HEAD START."







FROM THE BOOK OF SAYINGS OF MEZZO-PRETE: "WHEN INCLINED TO REPOSE, BEST TO SEEK WARM SURROUNDINGS".









From the book of sayings of Mezzo-Prete, FMIP: " When on a journey to visit popular attractions, best to be prepared to wait in line."














Mezzo-Prete says: "Before retiring for the night, best to find ample shelter."


IVANO SAYS (CONT'D): Thus, Goodnight to one an all. Hope you enjoyed this. Sempre Avanti. Ivn0

REMEMBERING "FIGLIA DELLA COSTA" LENA (FISTOLERA) SHAW

Lena G. Shaw
Feb 12, 1914 - Feb 22, 2012
Resident of Santa Cruz
Lena G. Shaw passed away peacefully on February 22, 2012 at her Maple House residence, she was 98.
Lena was born February 12, 1914, the daughter of Paul Barbara Fistolera. Her childhood years were spent in Swanton where she attended Swanton School and Aqua Puerca School. She later moved with her family to Yellow Bank where her father ran a dairy. She rode the train into Santa Cruz to attend Santa Cruz High School where she graduated.
Following High School Lena worked at Polleti's Packing Shed, the Davenport Cash Store and taught citizenship classes. She worked for Penniman Title Company for many years until her marriage to John E. Shaw. John was the love of her life. They were married at the Carmel Mission in 1956. Lena's wedding dress was hand crocheted by a friend which later became the discussion of the ceremony because, although the dress was beautiful the more Lena moved in the dress the longer the dress became.
Lena was a resident of Maple House from 2002 until her passing.
Lena enjoyed traveling on road trips with her husband to Oregon and Northern California. After the passing of her husband, she continued to take road trips to Truckee and Tahoe with her sisters, Inez Grossi and Vivian Rodoni.
Lena enjoyed gardening, especially the vegetable gardens she and her husband planted on a city owned plot off Trescony Street in Santa Cruz. They planted these gardens for many years. They were several other gardens that were planted on this city owned plot, but Lena and her husband's space was the best looking and always produced the most vegetables. Lena enjoyed the flowers and plants on her own manicured yard. She continued planting flowers and vegetables when she moved to Maple House.
Lena had other talents such as woodcarving, ceramics, crocheting, sewing and baking Gravenstein apple pies (her favorite) from the apples grown on her tree.
Lena is survived by numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, John E. Shaw in 1999, by her parents, Paul and Barbara Fistolera, sisters, Inez Grossi, Winnie Giraudo, Zelda Ceragioli, Nora Della Santina and Vivian Rodoni. The Fistolera sisters including Lena all lived to the minimum age of 93 except for her sister Nora who was just shy of her 101st birthday. With Lena's passing the Fistolera generation has come to an end. Lena's smile and loving persona will be missed by all that knew her.
Services will be held on Wednesday February 29, 2012 at the Oakwood Memorial Chapel 3301 Paul Sweet Road Santa Cruz. Friends and family are invited to call beginning at 11:00 AM until the service time which is 1:00 PM.
Memorial Contributions may be sent to Hospice of Santa Cruz County 940 Disc Dr Scotts Valley, CA. The family would like to thank the staff at Maple House for their compassion and loving care of Lena during her residency.
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IVANO SAYS: The above Remembrance of Lena was first published in the Santa Cruz Sentinel:
http://www.santacruzsentinel.com/

As the very well written Remembrance above states, Lena was the last of the Fistolera sisters. In "La Nostra Costa (Our Coast) I have a Chapter end note (p. 251) regarding these remarkable sisters. "Lea (Grossi) Lambert, the daughter of Settimo and Inez (Fistolera) Grossi, has reminded me that there were six Fistolera sisters: Inez, Winnie (Giraudo), Nora (Della Santina),
Zelda, Vivian (Rodoni) and Lena (Shaw). Her grandparents, Paul and Barbara Fistolera had a rancio in Swanton. Later Lea lived on a ranch with her father and mother, just north of Laguna."

Truly, a remarkable legacy. Addio, Lena. Until we meet again across "Il Ultimo Ponte".

REMEMBERING "AMICO DELLA COSTA" DOMINICK "DAN" PETROLINO

IVANO SAYS: The following Remembrance of Dan was first published in the Santa Cruz Sentinel: www.santacruzsentinel.com

Dominick A. "Dan" Petrolino
Aug. 25, 1928 - Feb. 19,2012
Resident of Santa Cruz
Dominick A. "Dan" Petrolino, passed away on February 19, 2012 at Dominican Hospital. He was 83. Dan was born on August 25, 1928 in Long Island, New York, the son of Luigi and Ermalinda (d'Andria) Petrolino. He moved to New Jersey as a young child and after high school graduation moved with his parents to California, settling in Mt View. Dan attended Santa Clara University and served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War.
A resident of Santa Cruz since 1963, he worked many years for Sylvania and later for G T E retiring in 1990. Dan loved baseball and grew up going to Yankee Stadium. He continued to love the Yankees throughout his life. He spent summers going to the Jersey shore and camping in the Catskill Mountains.
He was a devout member of Holy Cross Church. He was also a member of the Marconi Club and the Italian Catholic Federation. He spent many years deeply involved in the Italian Catholic Federation and he served as Grand President of ICF from 1990-1993. He traveled extensively with the I.C.F. and through the organization met many dear and life- long friends.
Dan is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Diana Petrolino; two daughters, Patricia McNeal and Cori Gabbert; son-in-law, Mike Gabbert; two grandchildren, Alyssa McNeal and Alexis McNeal; sister-in-law, Betty Del Chiaro and nephew, David Del Chiaro. He is also survived by several cousins in California, on the east coast and in Italy.
A vigil prayer service and rosary will begin at Holy Cross Church 126 High St., Santa Cruz, CA, on Friday February 24, 2012 at 6:30pm. A Mass of Christian burial will follow beginning at 7:00 pm. A private interment will take place at Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction of Benito Azzaro Pacific Gardens Chapel. Please visit www.pacificgardenschapel.com to sign the online guest book or to express your condolences to Dan's family.
The family wishes to express their sincerest appreciation to Dr. Surinder Kumar, Dr. Neil Sawhney and to the staff of Dominican Hospital Telemetry Care, ICU and Satellite Dialysis Center for their wonderful care and support.
In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to Holy Cross Church or to your favorite charity .

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IVANO SAYS (CONT'D): I will always remember all those parties held at the old Holy Cross Hall. As you cross "Il Ultimo Ponte" I am certain that Joe Gemignani, John Bruzzone, Jim Spinetti, Sal Locatelli and the rest of the ICFers who went before you, will be waiting for you --ready to throw another big party. Addio, Danny, until we meet again "Across Il Ultimo Ponte."

FIGLIO DELLA COSTA (SON OF THE COAST) LIDO CANTARUTTI ON FRONT COVER - COMMUNITY EDUCATION MAGAZINE

IVANO SAYS: Remember Lido Cantarutti. He was kind enough to be our guest speaker at "La Nostra Costa Revival II" (Photo Above) at the Swanton Berry Farm "su per la costa". Well, a photo of our "famoso figlio della costa" (famous son of the coast). and a "figlio di Furlans" can now be seen on the cover of 'Community Education Magazine'. Congratulations Lido e Sempre Avanti.

Dear Ivano,

Recently the College of Marin made me very happy when they decided to place
my picture on the cover of their current course catalog! I thought you
might like to see a copy of what they came up with.

This year will mark my 27th year of teaching at the College, which I have
enjoyed very much. And it also will be my 36th of directing the Italian
Film Festival. Both have been a source of great satisfaction.

Regards,

Lido

REMEMBERING TOM MARKETELLO - FIGLIO DELLA POLIZIA (SON OF THE POLICE)

IVANO SAYS: The below Remembrance of Tom was first published in the Santa Cruz Sentinel: www.santacruzsentinel.com

Thomas Marketello
March 25, 1932- Jan. 29, 2012
Resident of Santa Cruz
Thomas Marketello was born in Oakland, California, to Edna Delmas and John Marketello. When he was two, his parents divorced and Edna married Marvin Roberts. He went to Catholic schools in Oakland and El Cerrito High School.
He had his first paying job at 11 as a newspaper carrier in San Francisco, earning his Schwinn Bicycle from the newspaper. In those days, the paperboys had to collect the money from their customers. One was particularly devious by trying to pay his with a $50 or $100 bills knowing Tom would not have the change. Tom got permission from his supervisor to return his change in pennies, thus ending his duplicitous action and illustrating Tom's burgeoning tactics in settling problems.
As a preteen, he and his buddies were often in trouble with their parents and the law as they spent much time in designing pranks that got them into trouble and all for the sake of having a lot of laughs. They often hung out at Playland, at the beach in San Francisco. One prank being getting into patrol cars and moving them while the policeman was directing traffic on Sloat Boulevard. Another was practicing war games in the sand dunes with practice grenades stolen from the Presidio.
It was under these conditions, and being bored with school, that these five ninth grade buddies decided to enlist for the Korean conflict at age 15 with the law not far behind them. They were underage, but managed to find and pay a "fake father" and lied about their ages. It was 1947, and they found themselves heading for boot camp in San Antonio, Texas.
He was sent to Okinawa where the Provost Marshall asked if he wanted to be an MP. The old adage, "if you can't beat them, you join them" seemed to apply and he became a member of the 528th Military Police Air Force Squadron. He liked the discipline and order of the service and particularly driving all the equipment with his new military driver's license. One of his enjoyable assignments was with Bob Hope entertaining the troops and escorting the movie actress Marilyn Maxwell in his patrol car.
Tom soon moved up to the rank of Staff Sergeant. After 5 years, he thought about re-enlisting until his friends talked about all the fun they were going to have after being discharged. After, he felt he had made a mistake because they were all married within 6 months. As it turned out, after a few jobs in the bay area and working for the State Dept. of Forestry while attending college under the G.I. Bill in San Jose, he met Peggy Walker and after 6 months they eloped to be married, she at 19, he at 21 with 5 years of military service behind him.
This was August of 1954, and they decided to move to Santa Cruz in the Pleasure Point area where they lived in a duplex complex with Tom's friends from the bay area- the Kamian, O'Neill, Devine and VanDyke couples. Surfing, sunning on the beach and starting their families was the mode. Tom and Peg moved into Santa Cruz, however, when he became a temporary policeman and then a fireman with the SCFD, and she a long-distance operator.
Right after the flood in '55 and the strike at the telephone company occurred, two of Tom's old buddies called encouraging him to come back up to the bay area to work with them. They moved to Berkeley, where Peggy transferred as an operator, but then took a civil service job as a PBX/Receptionist at Bethlehem Steel Corp. knowing she was now pregnant. They moved to a home in Albany and their daughter Mari was born in 1957. Just before their son was born two years later, they wanted to return to Santa Cruz to raise their children. Tom rejoined to SCPD and they lived on Anthony St. When they needed a 3-bedroom home, they moved to the eastside where they've lived since 1969.
Moving from the Military Police to SCPD was an easy and likable transition for Tom. While in patrol, he met Richard Foerster who became a long-time friend. As pranksters seem to attract each other, one of the episodes of these two during their graveyard shift together was to start up farm machinery and give themselves rides in the dark.
He enjoyed being in patrol even after being shot during a burglary at the Blue Chip store but wanted to join the Traffic Bureau as a motor cop. He enjoyed riding the motor around town meeting the townspeople, leading parades, and riding in the beach area during the summers. He felt strongly about his duty to protect and maintain order. Out of the multitude of jobs he held in his life, riding the motor turned out to be his happiest one. He became Sergeant and the Lieutenant of Traffic Division with a crew he admired tremendously and maintained friendships with till his death. Over the years, some of those motor cops included the now deceased Frank Boze, Bob Bunter, and Jay Sharmer. Today, Joe Haebe, Jeff Locke, Dave Larson, Steve Belcher, Ken Boe, Jim Conner, and Tom Vlassis were all still meeting with him at Gilda's on the wharf almost every morning.
Tom became the only municipal motorcycle officer in the state at that time to ride as a lieutenant. Later, Chief Pini asked him and Richard Foerster (having left their pranksterism finally behind) to become Deputy Chiefs. Tom did not want to give up the motor and declined. Pini persisted and the deal was finally made where he could still ride. Tom stayed as Deputy Chief of the patrol, traffic and detective divisions for about 3 years, but was never happy exchanging City Council meeting times with those on the motor. He left the department at age 50, serving twenty-five years; and with a disability retirement based on his numerous motorcycle injuries acquired over the years.
After retiring, Tom still left the house at the same time in the morning as if going to work. When Peggy asked what he did for the day, he usually replied that he was, "Busy, very busy." When she recently asked him what he like the most about being on the police department he answered, "The camaraderie". The man and the uniform and probably telling people what to do. He always considered his multitude of friends a great part of his life and tried to maintain connections through 4 different coffee groups and clubs like The CAL-TEX Riders, MMOC (Municipal Motorcycle Officers of California), the Northern 10/10 RV Club, the Elks and a public retirement group. He was gregarious, amiable, listened well and told stories of his past experiences that captivated all in the room. He has a legacy at that department that lives on.
Retirement also moved him to become a business partner in the motel business in the early 70's with fellow officer Ken Boe. Together, they drove their motorcycles on many routes through Mexico to Cabo San Lucas, sometimes with other friends as well. Peggy even flew down on her spring break from teaching to stay with him one week in his "burrito wagon" on the beach of San Jose del Cabo. He and Ken drove cars to places like Belize where they could be sold for taxies and fly back home. On one trip, they decided to go through the Panama Canal and on to Peru in a car to sell. But an increase in road blockings by revolutionaries with carbine rifles in Guatemala soon deterred them. Their motorcycle rides together were fast when they were younger, but in their 70's they downgraded to cars and drove at much slower and leisurely speeds. Tom said it was more than once on two-lane roads that cars lined up behind them with drivers flipping them off when finally passing.
Peggy and Tom's relationships with the Marenghi, Ponza, Seghetti and Chapette families were long time and familial. Assistant Chief Ernie Marenghi was on of Tom's greatest friends. When he died, Tom became a surrogate grandfather to his grandchildren Danny and Jennifer. Joyful special occasions have been celebrated with the Seghetti and Chapette families for over 50 years.
Despite his physical disabilities, largely in his back and shoulder, he belonged to the CAL-TEX Riders Highway Patrol Organization where he rode his Goldwing each summer for their annual rendezvous, often with Peggy on the back. This long-time group consisted of John and Faye Glover (one of the founders), Gerry and Fran Mills, Lew and Mary Metcalf, Bud and Ruthie Brillisour, and sometimes Norm and Karyn Sigvardson, Marion and brother-in-law Ed Boze and the Foxes. This organization of officers from many states, meet each summer at a different site within the states, sometimes as many as 600 motors. This offshoot group of friends traveled almost all of the country's highways, back roads, and sights west of the Mississippi over a period of 28 years. Tom and Gerry were consummate collectors (along with his long time friend Ray Walker), so stops at antique and collectible shops were a must upon late afternoon arrivals in the various towns. These summer trips averaged 2-5 weeks with this fun-loving group and produced much laughter and memorable experiences, probably with Tom in the majority of them. These were some of the most enjoyable summers for Tom and Peg.
Good times with friends happened in other groups for Tom as well. He and Peggy were members of the Northern 10/10 RV club largely consisting of retired Highway Patrol Officers and their friends. Traveling to many parts of the state in their Chinook RV, and recently with their two dogs Kenna and Sandy, they enjoyed their many weekend outings of games, food and conversation with other members.
Tom enjoyed his poker nights in his upstairs warehouse den with close friends and son. They could have more laughs just playing penny ante poker for hours.
Playing cards was also part of the agenda with his many male friends held dear over the years in their annual visit to the cabin at Eagle Lake. Before their deaths, he particularly enjoyed these times with Ernie Marenghi and Nick Dinapoli. He didn't like fish, so saw no reason to fish with the rest, just wanted to be with them. Peggy heard that he could get pretty cranky with his group if they didn't adhere to his housekeeping and kitchen standards for living together under one roof.
Tom was a good man! He was loyal, called "Straight Arrow" by those on the department and had a good sense of humor. While frugal and sparing in his everyday living, behind the scenes he would provide financial or emotional support to family members and friends when needed. Many gravitated towards him and remained his friend. He loved vehicles and purchased dozens during his lifetime. Many would want to buy the vehicles he was ready to turn in or sell for new ones because they were in such good shape.
His survivors include his wife, family and two dogs, who will all miss his vital presence in their lives. His family includes his wife Peggy of 57 years, daughter Mari (Joaquin Alameda) and their five children: Lauren Alameda-Reddell (fianc#233; Jason Wahlberg), Lindsay, Leann, Lani (Scott Almand) with 4 children Michelle, Lizzie, and twins Christian and Julian. His son Mike and Betty with their 3 daughters: Katie, Laura, and Meagan and her son Eugene, his first great grandson. Sister Carole (Jim Kilpatrick), niece Gayle, brother, David Roberts. Also considered a family member is James Reddell.
A celebration for Tom will be held on his 80th birthday, March 25 at 2:00 P.M. for all wishing to attend and a specific announcement will appear one week ahead of time in the Sentinel. Tom will be cremated and the spreading of his ashes will be on the Team O'Neill Sea Odyssey with his family and long time good friend Jack O'Neill attending.
Donations may be made to the Multiple Myeloma Cancer Center and/or Hospice.
"I've done everything I've wanted to do in my life, and then some." Tom Marketello

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IVANO SAYS (CONT'D): Addio Tom. Until we see you riding your motorcycle, across "Il Ultimo Ponte" where, once again, everyone is "...young and able, so glad to be alive."

REMEMBRANCE: ANNUNZIATA "NUNI" RADICCHI

IVANO SAYS: BELOW IS THE FULL REMEMBRANCE OF NUNI RADICCHI AS IT APPEARED IN THE SANTA CRUZ SENTINEL: www.santacruzsentinel.com

Annunziata "Nuni" Radicchi
Annunziata Radicchi
April 22, 1924 - Jan. 27, 2012
Resident of Santa Cruz
Annunziata "Nuni" Radicchi passed away peacefully on January 27, 2012 at Dominican Hospital, after a brief illness, with her daughters by her side; she was 87. Nuni (La Volpe) was born to Dario and Virginia Manci in Iron Mountain, Michigan, where her father, who originally emigrated from Italy, worked in the iron mines for over 25 years. When she was two, her family returned to Gubbio, Italy, where she was raised, educated and married her longtime love, Nello Radicchi. In December of 1948, along with her infant daughter, Rosa, and her younger sister, Anita, she returned to the US, joining her older sister Irene Pori and family in Santa Cruz where Nello joined them after six months. Nuni was a long-time resident of Davenport "The Quarry" where she and Nello raised their family for ten years before moving to Santa Cruz after the big rainstorm and mountain slide of 1962.
She was first employed by Levi Strauss, where she made many lifelong friends. Later on she worked part-time in the local canneries, which included Pfeiffer, Stokely's, and Birds Eye Foods. When Lipton came to town, Nuni was hired and proudly worked as a machine operator until she retired after 17 years. She was an active member of the Lipton retirees group.
Filled with love, light and her radiant smile, Nuni fully embraced her life. Never one to be held back by life's hardships, she chose to appreciate her many blessings. She was a long-time parishioner of Holy Cross Church and a member of the Italian Catholic Federation Santa Cruz Br. #21 since 1968. She was also a former member of The Sons of Italy. An avid bowler well into her 80's and a member of several bowling teams, Nuni also enjoyed golf and was a member of the Lipton golf team for many years. In addition, she was an accomplished bocce player, a talented poker player, who also enjoyed opera, dancing, a variety of music and travel. Above all, she valued her beloved grandchildren, her beautiful family and her many, many friends. With a gift for making people feel special and always welcome, her kitchen was often filled with warm aromas of coffee, focaccia, biscotti and sauce; it became a natural gathering place for family and friends. In 2009, she and her siblings, hosted their "100 Year Manci Family Reunion" at the Cocoanut Grove.
Nuni is survived by her four daughters: Rosa Radicchi, Adele Tuiolosega, Daria Stark (Howard), and Kathleen Frost (Keith), and her honorary fifth daughter, Nancy Galli Dalquest (Len); her brother Frank Manci (Renata), sisters Anita Gatti and Guglielma Spogli (Gianni), sister-in-law Gloria Manci and her grandsons Joseph, Kenny, Matthew, and Paul, her granddaughter Erika, her loving Radicchi family, numerous nieces and nephews and relatives in the US and in Italy.
Having endured the loss of their beloved only son Joseph "Joey" in 1976, Nello preceded her in death in 1984. She was also preceded in death by her parents, Dario Virginia Manci and her siblings, Mary Manci, Dante Manci, Irene Roland Pori, Amadeo (Emil) Manci, Bianca Orlando, her dear brother-in-laws Orlando Gatti, Gaspare Orlando and her dear childhood friend Olivia Gatti Manos.
Recitation of the Holy Rosary will be on Friday, February 3, 2012 at Benito and Azzaro Pacific Gardens Chapel beginning at 7 p.m. Friends may pay their respects at the chapel on Friday from 1 p.m. until the Rosary begins. Mass of the Resurrection will be celebrated on Saturday, February 4, at Holy Cross Catholic Church (126 High Street) beginning at 12 noon.
The burial is private at Holy Cross Cemetery where she will be laid to rest beside her late husband, Nello. To light a candle and share your condolences with the family, please visit www.pacificgardenschapel.com. Donations may be made to an organization or charity of your choice ; or the Dominican Hospital Cardiac Unit (http://www.dominicanhospital.org/index.htm) , Hodgkin's Research at Stanford Hospital (http://stanfordhospital.org/ ) or the Holy Cross Food Pantry.

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IVANO SAYS (CONT'D): Nuni was a friend and inspiration to us all. She truely showed us how our lives should be lived. Sempre Avanti, Nuni. "Until we meet again, across 'Il Ultimo Ponte."

REMEMBERING NUNI RADICCHI - FIGLIA DELLA COSTA

Nuni Radicchi seated on left with her friend Lina Bressani Gemignani at "La Nostra Costa Revival" at the Swanton Berry Farm on the Santa Cruz North Coast in October 2010.

This great lady passed away on January 27, 2012. We are all deeply sadden by here passing. According to Alverda Orlando, services are to be held this coming weekend. I will publish more details on this post as they become available. My sincere condolence to the Radicchi Family .

ADDIO MI BELLA NUNI. UNTIL WE ALL MEET AGAIN ACROSS "IL ULTIMO PONTE"

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SPECIAL MESSAGE FROM ROSA RADICCHI:

Annunziata "Nuni" Radicchi
April 22, 1924 ~ January 27, 2012



Dear Family & Friends,
As some of you may already know, our mom ~ Annunziata "Nuni" Radicchi ~ passed away peacefully on the morning of Friday, January 28, with us, her daughters by her side. She was, and still is in our hearts, a very dear lady ~ loved by those who knew her ~ a wonderful woman, wife, mother, grandmother and friend; and she will be greatly missed.




As she often said, even in the hospital; "I've had a wonderful life". May your life also be filled with wonderful blessings.

Arrangements have been made with Pacific Garden Chapel. The viewing will be held on Friday, Feb. 3, followed by the Rosary at 7:00 pm at the Chapel; with the funeral Mass on Saturday, Feb. 4, at 12:00 noon at Holy Cross Church.

Please feel free to pass this info on to any other family and friends who may be interested and I may have missed.

Thank you again, for your prayers, friendship, love and kindness, through these difficult times. Lots of love and blessings. -Rosa

PESCATORI DI SANTA CROCE (SANTA CRUZ FISHERMEN)

IVANO SAYS: The "La Nostra Costa Story" as I wrote it was mostly about the Italian influence in Agriculture "su per la costa".. However, there were other Italian farmers that did not farm 'up the coast'. They farmed the sea and the Wharf in Santa Cruz was their home. Barbara Silva sent me the below historical clip she found on youtube. I hope you all enjoy it as much as I did. Reuniting with "Amici della costa" (friends of the coast) was (is) always a pleasure. Thank you Babara.

"Clicca" here to view tape: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UdlY2mdbbL0

Painting of Ghio Boat by Gino Campioni.

REMEMBERING 'FIGLIO DI SANTA CROCE' (SON OF SANTA CRUZ) - ANGELO CANEPA

IVANO SAYS: The below Remembrance of Angelo first appeared in the Santa Cruz Sentinel: www.santacruzsentinel.com

Angelo Joseph Canepa
July 18, 1917-January 9, 2012
Resident of Santa Cruz

Angelo Joseph Canepa, an iconic business leader in Santa Cruz for more than 50 years and a widely decorated bombardier in the Army Air Corps during World II, died at his Santa Cruz home with his family at his side, Monday, January 9, 2012. He was 94.
The son of a pioneer Italian fishing family in Capitola, Canepa's parents, Luigi and Luigia, were natives of Riva Trigoso, Italy, who immigrated to Monterey Bay at the turn of the 19th century. Canepa was raised on the Capitola waterfront and was the proud captain of the salmon vessel, "The Ocean Pearl." He graduated from Santa Cruz High School in January of 1935.
During World War II he first served in England from 1942 to1943 and then was sent to the South Pacific, where he served as Lead Bombardier in the 667 Squadron and flew eleven missions over Japan. He received numerous citations for his service, including the Air Medal; Distinguished Unit Badge; WWII Victory Medal; American Theater Ribbon; Asiatic Pacific Theater Ribbon; EAME Theater Ribbon; and a Bronze Star.
Following World War II, Canepa married his wife of 63 years, Lucille. In the early 1950's he became a partner in Palomar Lincoln Mercury and later became the sole owner of the dealership which he operated until his retirement in 1981.He was also a member of the Lincoln Mercury Dealer Council.
Canepa was active in numerous civic affairs. Canepa became a member of the Rotary Club of Santa Cruz in November of 1949 and was active in the organization until his death. He was the longest serving member in the club's history and served as the club's director from 1950-1951. The Santa Cruz Rotary Endowment Named Scholarship is called the "Angelo Canepa Family Scholarship." He was a Rotary International Paul Harris Fellow "Plus 3."
Canepa joined the Santa Cruz Yacht Club in 1959 and served as Commodore of the club in 1967.
He was also active with the Boy Scouts, serving on various local committees as well as the Monterey Bay Area Council Executive Board in 1976 and then as president of the council from 1984-1985. He received the council's highest honor, the Silver Beaver Award, in 1980.
In addition to his service as a Rotarian, Canepa had 71 years of membership in the Santa Cruz Elks Lodge, which he joined in February 1941 at the age of 23 and later served as president.
He was also an active member of the Pasatiempo Home Owners Association; the East Side Businessmen's Association; the 20/30 Club; and the Native Sons of the Golden West. Canepa is survived by his wife Lucille; his children Bruce, Cheryl and Jeff; his grandchildren Gianna, Angolee, Carrie, Carly, Michael, Arielle, Adam; and his great grandchildren, Zaiden, Stellina and Gabriella.
In lieu of flowers please make donations to: The Santa Cruz Rotary Endowment, PO Box 497 Santa Cruz, CA 95061 Or Heartland Hospice Services, 824 Bay Avenue #40, Capitola, CA 95010.
For Details Regarding Angelo's Celebration of Life, please contact: cpanattoni@comcast.net

IVANO SAYS (CONT'D): Addio Angelo. Until we all meet again across "Il Ultimo Ponte" (The Last Bridge)

HONORABLE INTENTIONS BY RUSSELL JONES NOW PUBLISHED

IVANO SAYS: Remember Former San Jose Police Officer Russ Jones of "Sprouzzi ala Jounzzi" fame: www.nostra-costa.blogspot.com/2007/07/sprouzzi-ala-jounzzi.html
well he just published his book.

For those of you interested, I invite you to visit Russ's website at: http://www.honorable-intentions.com/


(See my comments on the book, after the Article.)

UPDATE 7/16/2012: Russ has just completed a promotional video. Very impressive. "Clicca" on following link to view:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nBnYHXY4ZRw&feature=youtu.be






Honorable Intentions is a memoir by Russell Jones. As an army Chief Warrant Officer and combat helicopter pilot in Vietnam, he earned the Purple Heart, Bronze Star, and 16 Air Medals. After his honorable discharge, he became a San Jose police officer, where he worked as a Canine Officer and Field Training Officer, FTO. Promoted to the Detective Bureau, he was assigned to the Narcotics Division where he worked Organized Crime, investigating organizations such as the Nuestra Familia and the Hell's Angels. After law enforcement, Russell Jones served as an intelligence agent in Costa Rica during Iran-Contra in Nicaragua where he infiltrated groups involved in covert operations such as Tipped Kettle. In private practice as a Forensic Consultant, he testified as an expert witness in criminal cases, such as rape and homicide, where drugs and substance abuse played a role. In academia, he developed, wrote, and implemented Drug Rehabilitation courses designed for court-mandated clients. As a guest of the Ministry of Interiors of both the Soviet Union and China, he traveled throughout those countries and worked with their narcotics officers. He has thousands of miles of blue water ocean sailing experience, having sailed to Central America, the Caribbean, and the Bahamas, as well as the east coast of the US, from Florida to Maine. Russell Jones served with honor, but constantly questioned government policies that were taking the lives of those he served with.

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IVANO SAYS (CONT'D). I just finished reading Russ's book. A Great Read. I recommend it to everybody who is interested in the "murky world of the police". Russ writes about some of the Police Officers mentioned in my book such as Fallen Officers Richard Huerta, Gene Simpson and Gordon Silva. And by George, he does include some of his famous recipes. Below is a copy of an e-mail I sent to Russ:

Russ: Just finished your book. Excellent work. Next step, make it into a movie.

In my book, I describe the world of the police in the following words. "....the murky world inhabited by police officers." Your book aptly illustrates that description. Lines depicting the "Good, Bad and Ugly" often blend together and are not easily deciphered. To illustrate, Officer Jim Emmons was embedded in the criminal world, much as you were. (I believe he did his work after yours). Although I was not his "boss", nor was I involved in his undercover assignment, we used to meet often at the Rusty Lantern (now Malone's) in Scotts Valley.
Over drinks and/or beer, he would use me as his sounding board. (What did I think of this or that. Do you think I'm doing the right thing.etc.). One day he made the following statement to me (paraphrasing): "You know, I've gotten to the point where I trust the crooks, more than I do the people in our own Department." ( Sound familiar) I realized then and there that he was very near to crossing over. It was time for him to get out and I told him so. It took him a while, but he finally got out (alive).

The survival question you raise (Why am I here and not the others?), is something that I think about from time to time. Maybe it is as (you write) simple as predetermination. (If Richard Huerta hadn't made that traffic stop, at the particular location at that particular time, he probably would still be with us today.) Some of us may be destined to die young, others are destined to live on to tell their story (Like you have.) Also, alcohol (accurately described by you as our most dangerous drug) had a lot to do with it. Many of us died to early because of heavy drinking (and smoking).

I'm glad you decided to include some of your delicious recipes. Unless I missed it, you didn't tell us how you picked up your culinary skills.
Also, I'm sure you did some of your cooking while you were undercover. Did you ever think of disbursing some of your recipes in between the mayhem and killings ala Hannibal Lecter. That would have been something.

Anyways, Russ. Good Job. Maybe we should have a Police book fair at the POA hall. I'm sure your book would take center stage. Sempre Avanti. ivn(0)