I was born in the small Western New York city of Batavia. Population 18,000 at that time. It was early spring so, as it did most every year the Tonowanda Creek overflowed its banks and flooded much of my South side neighborhood. My father actually, rowed a boat to higher ground in order to reach St. Jerome Hospital for my birth.

The south side was considered ethnically diverse meaning Polish and Italian neighborhoods co-existed in relative harmony. I was a Pollock surrounded by Italians. Cultural sensitivities often took a backseat to (mostly) friendly bickering and one-upsmanship. The north side of Batavia was primarily W.A.S.P.

Sacred Heart Elementary School was only 3 blocks from home so of course I walked to school but do not remember riding my bike. Hmmm. At that time we did not have a car.

To Be  Continued. Please check back later. I will update my “life story” soon.

Paul/TJ