Romeo Lunch 12/11/13

The Romeo gang met for lunch at Strega Prime in Woburn on 12/11/13. You can see the Restaurant  web site and menu at http://stregaprime.com/menus.html     There were 8 Romeos  present :  Jim Terlizzi, Paul Girard, Ed DeSchuytner, Steve Winter, Bob Simmons, Joe Pignatiello, Mark Ryan and Joe Lapiana.  You can see photos at the Picasa web site below……

https://plus.google.com/photos/108806068200291783388/albums/5956643999330708577?authkey=CKDAkabfl6CnUQ

The restaurant was previously The Beacon Grille and last month reopened as Strega Prime,  an Italian Steakhouse. The whole interior has been done over. There is a large waiter staff all dressed in white diner jackets. The prices are quite high but the food and service are excellent. One delight is a prefixed lunch on the menu for $21.00.  This includes a three part meal with Caesar salad, lobster bisque or steak tartare to start. The main entrée was either club sirloin steak, chicken Milanese, veal or salmon, and lastly a dessert of ricotta pie or macaroon cookies.

Most everyone ordered the steak and the chicken with lobster bisque or Caesar salad.  After ordering drinks , the waiter brought us all a large popover and then the salad or bisque. The main dish was then served and lastly the dessert with coffee or cappuccino. The meal was just great and the service excellent.

As you might have guessed, I have not written the blog for November since I made an unexpected visit to the hospital and had a double bypass heart operation. The operation was at the Lahey Hospital in Burlington and I would recommend this hospital and medical staff with the highest regard.  I was up and about the next day and walking by the end of the week. Admitted on 12/11 and discharged on 12/17/13. Over the past month at home, I have gotten stronger each day and was able to resume driving a car and somewhat normal activity. Of course no snow shovelling or heavy lifting.

Back to the Romeo lunch, the conversation bounced around the table with topics on medical problems, sports, politics, trips, movies to see, and Iphone apps.  The crew was glad to see me and didn’t expect me back for another month.  I did learn that everyone has a list of their medications with more ailments each month but living longer.

Jim is planning another trip to Colorado for a skiing vacation in January.  Joe Ps. daughter moved to California for better job opportunity and Joe misses his weekly trip to NH where she lived previously.  Joe mentioned that when they were at the German restaurant (Carl’s Sausage) last month , Steve told stories of his family immigrating from Germany during WWII.  Joe L. talked about a trip to Sicily but not during summer when it’s too hot. 

I commented that the temps in NH were getting to the minus numbers and was happy about it. This past summer I had a mice problem in my trailer in NH and hoped that the little buggers would freeze in the cold weather if they were in the trailer. I tried everything to get rid of the little critters.  I blocked all the holes and put out traps. I just kept catching them in the traps. My neighbour then told me that they were getting in his trailer through the 30 amp electric wire feeding the trailer. He put steel wool around the hole for the wire and no more mice. I did the same and seemed to get rid of them at the end of summer.

Everyone at the table then had a mice story to tell.  I also commented that my sister in law lives in Revere where they are doing a lot of construction around her house and she is infested with mice.

We then learned that Paul will also be in the hospital this Friday for a procedure to correct an irregular heart. Good luck Paul and our prayers are with you. During my stay at the hospital I learned I had an irregular heart too that was adjusted with medication. 

We decided to try a Malden Restaurant in January (Jack’s).  Jim will send out the information shortly.

Comments always welcome ….  Markryan82@comcast.net

 

 

 

 

Romeo Lunch 9-18-13

The Romeo Gang met for lunch on Wednesday, September 18, at the Aragosta Bar and Bistro in the North End of Boston at 12 noon. Aragosta is located at 3 Battery Wharf along the waterfront. Go to www.aragostabistro.com for more information and directions.

There were 8 Romeos present including: Jack Tweedie, Joe Pignatiello, Ed DeSchuytner, Jim Terlizzi, Joe Lapiana, Mark Ryan, Paul Girard and Steve Winter. You can see some photos at the Picassa web site .............

https://plus.google.com/photos/108806068200291783388/albums/5925776107699213793

We all arrived around noon. Some took public transportation and others came by car. Ed and Paul parked in a local garage. Joe P. came with Steve and used the valet parking at the restaurant. The others took the commuter train to North Station.

I met Joe L. In Wilmington on the commuter train from Lowell to North Station. With senior discount (half price), it cost me only $3.35 one way from Wilmington to North Station. One of the great perks for being a senior citizen.

Joe and I arrived at North Station about 11 AM and then walked over to the North End down Hanover Street to Battery Wharf. It was a little hike but a beautiful sunny day for a stroll along the city streets. There were a lot of visitors along Hanover Street taking in all the historic sites. Along the way we stopped to look at St. Steven Church and St. Leonard's. We passed the Paul Revere Statue at the beginning of the Freedom Trail that led up to the Old North Church and looked at some vendors selling paintings and prints.

We passed the fire station on Hanover St. where there was a robbery a few nights back. We talked to a fireman on duty and he showed us the rubber boot that was stolen and later recovered. It had been filled with money being collected for the Muscular Dystrophy Association.

We then arrived at the Aragosta Bistro on Battery Wharf just before noon. It is located in the Fairmont Hotel on the waterfront. From the wharf you could see Boston Harbor, the Coast Guard Station and the local boat and ferry traffic.

Although the menu had a limited selection and a bit pricey, most ordered the chef's special Exhale Spa Fish which was a broiled haddock on a bed of vegetables - ($19). The others ordered the Aragosta Insulata (marinated clams, mussels, shrimp, calamari on a bed of lettuce) - ($24) and Grilled Chicken Panini - ($16). Price is not a problem when Retired Old Rich Men Eat Out (ROR-MEO)s.

I was a surprise to see Jack who had not been able to make the lunches for a few weeks. Jack has been busy with part-time work and traveling to his home down the Cape. Jack mentioned getting an annual physical exam and a shingles short. We all affirmed that we also have had the inoculation against shingles and commented how painful the affliction was.

Joe P. Said he was going on a trip to the Azores for 10 days and was looking forward to it. He also said that there are a lot of inexpensive trips including airfare and hotel being offered by AAA that we all should look into.

Paul then mentioned to Steve that he was looking much healthier today. Steve mentioned that it was all due to a good s.....x life (Ha Ha).

Jim then said he attended a sox baseball game recently and hoped that the Sox would be in the play-offs. (They are today.) He also recently saw a few new movies at the theater and on DVD that he recommended, (RUSH) was one.

Ed then said that his son recently bought a condo on Beacon Hill. While looking, he was surprised at the condo prices on the waterfront. Ed said that a condo just above the Aragosta overlooking the water goes for 4 million. I guess I will have to call my friend Warren Buffet for some pocket change.

We then talked about where to have lunch next month. Jim will send you an email. Afterwards, we all said so-long till we meet again and went off in different directions.

On the way back Joe L. And I stopped into Mike's Pastry to get some cakes to bring home.

We then arrived at North Station to catch the 3:10 train traveling back toward Lowell.

The train arrived in Wilmington at about 3:40 and I decided to walk home. On a cool day the 3 mile walk to my home is not a bad hike. After 2 miles my baseball cap was wet with sweat. I guess I will have to consult my personal trainer (Arnold -The Terminator) to get back in shape.

Comments and suggestions always welcome.... markryan82@comcast.net

Romeo Lunch 8-21-13

The Romeo Gang had lunch on Wednesday, 8-21-13 at Bellino’s Trattoria, 146 Lowell St., Wakefield,MA. You can see the web site at … http://www.bellinos.com for more information. (If the links don't work please copy and paste into your browser.)

This was a quick change since the original lunch date was set for the Aragosta Restaurant on Battery Wharf in Boston.  After several of the Romeos canceled it looked like only a few were left to attend.  However, after suggesting a more local restaurant, we were able to rally five Romeos for Bellino’s in Wakefield. Those able to attend were Brother Tim, Paul Girard, Joe Lapiana, Joe Pignatiello and Mark Ryan.

Bellino’s is located right at the circle on Exit 40, Rte 128 and Lowell St. right next to Honey Dew Donuts and the north end of Lake Quannapowitt. The restaurant has a pleasant décor inside with full service bar and a small deck outside overlooking the lake across the street.  The menu is authentic Italian with chicken, veal, seafood and homemade pasta entrees as well as paninis and pizza.

We were early for lunch and got a table outside on the deck. The waitress took drink orders and gave us the menus to look at. She also told us what some of the specialties were. One specialty was a Shrimp over Liquini in a white garlic sauce with artichokes. Several picked it as there entrée and were pleasantly pleased.

Several others ordered a Panini, Fussilli alla Vodka and Chicken Parmesan. We also had an order of Mussels in Red Sauce for an appetizer. The drinks were served and included margaritas, manhattans, beer and soda.

After a while the deck tables filled up with other customers as well as the inside seating. This is a very pleasant place for lunch and dinner.

As usual the conversation was lively and bounced around the table. Several asked about some of the missing Romeos and why they couldn’t attend. Even when you are retired there are always a zillion things that fill up your appointment calendar. We talked about sports, politics, and current news items. Joe P. mentioned that he had a rental property in Somerville and would probably use a management firm next year to handle it since it is a full time job dealing with the property. He also said that Somerville Real Estate was booming and the prices keep going up. A recent two family was on the market for $600 thousand and ended up selling for $900 thousand due to buyers out-bidding each other.

Brother Tim talked about flying but also his teaching duties.  Correcting and reading AP Exams over the summer. St. John’s Prep is opening a new Middle School for boys in grades 6, 7 and 8 in the next few years and there is a lot of building going on.

Joe L. talked about some of the feast days in the North End. He also was having a family gathering at his house in Westford for distant cousins who haven’t seen each other in a while. He plans on having a lobster bake.

You can see some photos at the Picasa web site … https://plus.google.com/photos/108806068200291783388/albums/5916610381948497441?banner=pwa&gpsrc=pwrd1#photos/108806068200291783388/albums/5916610381948497441

(If the links don't work please copy and paste into your browser.)

We then discussed the next lunch date. Jim T. will let you know in an email.

Wednesday, September 18 at Aragosta Bar and Bistro in the North End of Boston at 12 noon.
Aragosta is located 3 Battery Wharf.  Go to www.aragostabistro.com for more information and directions. (If the links don't work please copy and paste into your browser.)

Comments always welcome … markryan82@comcast.net

Romeo Lunch 7-24-13

The Romeos had lunch on Wednesday, 7-24-13, at the BYC (Boston Yacht Club) in Marblehead. The BYC is located at 1 Front Street.  Go to www.bostonyc.org for directions and more information.

The six members present were Paul Girard, Jim Terlizzi, Joe Pignatiello, Ed DeSchuytner, Joe Lapiana and Mark Ryan.  You can see some photos at the Picasa link below …..

https://picasaweb.google.com/108806068200291783388/Romeo72413?authkey=Gv1sRgCPa81dzS84ifIg

Getting to the BYC is somewhat difficult since the streets in Marblehead are all one way and very narrow. You can follow direction or better yet have a GPS to lead you through the winding streets. I arrived about 11:45 AM, just before the noon lunch.

After parking the car in the small lot, I strolled around the side and entered the club through the back deck. From here there is a beautiful view of Marblehead Harbour with all the boats tied to their moorings. There are over 2500 boats anchored in the harbour and serviced by five yacht clubs and a public access dock. Most boaters grab a water taxi to get ferried out to their mooring and then set sail to the outer harbour and beyond.

I met Ed and Joe L. on the back deck looking out on the water. We talked for a while and then Jim arrived. We then went to the bar and ordered a few drinks when Paul showed up. Paul had made reservations to sit out on the deck downstairs. So we all followed, with drinks in hand, to the lower level.

Paul G. has been a member of the BYC for several years and has invited the Romeos out for lunch each year as his guests. He use to sail but now has passed on the gauntlet to his children and relatives. Looking out on the water Paul pointed to his son in law’s boat. Paul enjoys his membership at the BYC and has had many memorable family events here. When his daughter married the reception was here at the club.

Next week is Race Week and all the boating enthusiasts will be sailing, crewing or watching the races as the various class boats try to out manoeuver the pack by tacking and jibing with mainsail and jib.

Paul told us that there is a 10 year waiting period to acquire a mooring in Marblehead Harbour since boating has become such a desirable activity.

After sitting at a round table on the outside deck the waiter gave out menus. Joe P. then arrived and we placed our lunch orders which consisted of lobsters roll, haddock roll and shrimp salad and chowder. The meal was served quickly and was very good.

As always, the conversation bounced around the table as we kidded with each other. Politics, movies, and sports were among the topics. Jim is interested in a new car and had scheduled a test drive in a BMW after lunch. Jim was going on a trip to Iceland but cancelled since his wife got ill. She is better now. Ed said he bought a kit and changes his own oil on his BMW in about 5 minutes.

I talked about gardening and having lost a lot of plants to a gopher. The little varmint has had a family and has dug holes all over the yard under garden fences and under sheds. I have tried everything to get rid of the pest to no avail. I looked up some methods on the Web to get rid of the pests which included traps, fox urine and Geraniums. One fellow installed strobe lights and says the little critters stay away. All we need is some disco music.

Joe L. said has dog chased one right into a gopher hole and almost didn’t come out. Ed said his dog trapped one near a gravel walkway. The gopher escaped by digging a tunnel and throwing out rocks like a Gatling gun.

Ed talked about doing online courses at NECC. He said the cost is about $300 per credit.  A Chemistry course is 3 credits online. A 1 credit lab course has to be taken in person at the college if needed.

We then talked about some items in the news. The Bulger Trial, Travon Martin, Weiner Election. We then discussed all the books written about Bulger and the Winter Hill Gang. Everyone had an opinion.

Joe P. then talked about a wine tasting and dinner at the the Boston Winery. Joe L. then told about the St. Joseph Feast in the North End this weekend and some related festivals in Lowell.

Ed D. then said his son finally bought a condo on Beacon Hill in Boston after looking for two years and seeing over 300 properties. Jim said his sister has a condo there which she is trying to sell.

’m sure there were other topics which were discussed but that’s all I can remember right now.

We then scheduled the next lunch for August 21 in Boston on the water near Battery Wharf. Jim will let you all know the details.

Comments always welcome ……  markryan82@comcast.net

 

Romeo Lunch 6-19-13

The Romeo Gang had lunch on Wednesday, June 19, at the Seaport Grille in Gloucester.  Go to www.cruiseportgloucester.com/seaportgrille for more information. The six Romeos present were Joe LaPiana, Ed DeShuytner, Paul Girard, Joe Pignatiello, Jim Terlizzi and Mark Ryan.  You can see photos at the Picasa link below :  https://plus.google.com/photos/108806068200291783388/albums/5891723936465503169?authkey=CNq0m4nhi6a_Tg

I was early so decided to stop at a few places in Gloucester before going to the restaurant. My first stop was Stage Fort State Park. What a beautiful park for a family picnic, ball game, stroll, swimming at two beaches and yes surf fishing. I stopped at the Visitor’s Center and talked with the attendant. They had loads of free flyers describing the area. My grandchildren have been to Half Moon Beach and have had a great time.

Next, I stopped at the Fishing Pier across the bay from the restaurant. There was a lot of fishing container companies along the pier which then ended in a big parking lot at the end. Whole Foods and Gorton Fish were among them.  Several giant storage houses contained freezers to store fish. I talked with a local and he told me that the harbour use to be full of more than 50 local fishing boats but now there are maybe three. The new federal fishing laws and limited fishing and foreign fishing fleets have killed the local industry.

There were also a few locals fishing off of the pier and I learned that the fishing is good for mackerel and strippers on the incoming tide. However, you do need a Salt Water Fishing license (permit) but if you are over 70 years old it’s free.

It was near 12 noon so I went back to the restaurant and found Ed and Joe P.  at the bar where I joined them for a drink. The others arrived shortly and we were seated at the back of the restaurant which looked out into the harbour. Boats cruised in and out which carried tours and whale watchers.

The waitress took our drink orders and gave us all menus. We then ordered a few appetizers and our main entrees. The appetizers were calamari and steamers and the entrees consisted of seafood stew (cioppino), Seafood diablo and  lobster roll with chowder.

After drinks were served we all raised our glasses and toasted all the departed Romeos. May they be in a better place at the Romeo Ranch in the sky. We then commented how they all loved getting together with the group. ” Happy Trails and Till we meet again”.

The conversation was lively as always and hit all the main topics in the news. We talked about the Bruins and the various players. We then predicted how many games before they win the Stanley Cup!!!!  I mentioned to Jim that my grandson was playing street hockey and loves it. Jim said his two sons played ice hockey and the equipment gets quite expensive.

Paul asked Jim where he planned on traveling next. Jim said he was going to Iceland for a 9 day trip. Icelandic Air had a trip with flight, hotel and car but Jim wanted to take the bus tour of the island.  He said there were a lot of scenic things to see and he was looking forward to the trip.  Joe P. said he was there and really enjoyed it. Joe P. also commented that the best trips to Europe were the three (I’s) – (Iceland, Italy and Ireland).

Joe L. said the river cruises in Europe were great too. I then said that a friend just went and was disappointed because of all the rain which made the rivers higher and the boats couldn’t get under the bridges. Joe said that the tour companies would then bus you into the local towns for a tour and another boat would pick you up on the other side of the bridges.

We then talked about the next lunch and decided on the BYC in Marblehead. That is always a nice lunch right on Marblehead Harbour. Paul said he would check the dates since the Sailing Races and Regatta were planned for the end of July. Jim will send an email and let us know the time and date.

Comments Always Welcome: markryan82@comcomast.net

 

Romeo Lunch 5-15-13

The Romeo Gang had lunch on Wednesday, May 15 at the Chama Grill in North Andover at 12 noon. The Chama Grill is located at 115 Main St.  Go to: www.chamagrill.com for more information

Those present were Ed DeSchuytner, Joe Pignatiello, Steve Winter, Joe Lapiana, Mark Ryan, Paul Girard and Jim Terlizzi.   Mark and Joe L. were the first to arrive and stayed outside to enjoy the warm weather. After Paul and Ed arrived we went inside and waited for the others. We were worried since they were late but eventually showed up. The place was mostly empty but had good reviews from Ed who also had a 15% discount coupon. You can see some photos at the Picasa link below …. 

https://plus.google.com/photos/108806068200291783388/albums/5880260486942143713?authkey=CIDDnNiSnenybw

We quickly ordered drinks which were soda, beers on tap, margaritas and mojitos. The waiter then brought bread and oil for dipping and gave us menus to browse. We ordered a few appetizers (mussels and calamari) to share and the main courses which were scallops orzo, steak tips, salads, onion soup and chowder. The food was pretty good but the orzo was too starchy for my taste.

The conversation was lively as usual and included topics in the news, politics, medications, and trips.

Jim just came back from Florida and said it was great. Paul started his garden by growing a few tomatoes inside. I also started some veggies inside but they are very leggy from stretching for the fluorescent lights.

I finally roto tilled my outdoor garden and put down some weed cloth. I also got my rain barrel water system ready and will probably wait until after Memorial Day to put plants outside after the last chance of frost. Ed reminded us that it’s also after the last full moon in May.

The time went by quickly and we talked about where to go next time. The consensus was to pick a place with outdoor seating. We then decided on the Seaport Grill in Gloucester.  Jim will send the details.

Comments always welcome …  markryan82@comcast.net

Romeo Lunch 4-17-13

The Romeo Gang met for lunch on Wednesday, April 17 at the Stone Wood Tavern in Peabody at 12 noon. The Stone Wood Tavern is located at 139 Lynnfield St. (look for the big red brick building with Sal's Pizza in the front), Go to www.stonewoodtavernpeabody..com for more information.

Those in attendance were Paul Girard, Joe Lapiana, Brother Tim Paul, Joe Pignatiello, Steve Winter, Mark Ryan, Ed DeSchuytner and Jim Terlizzi. You can see some photos at the Picasa link below ….

https://plus.google.com/photos/108806068200291783388/albums/5868363360430929441?authkey=CMaPkvzOtf3DjwE

Although we were to be seated at a table inside we sat outside on the patio to enjoy the sunny day until most everyone was there. It was a great day and the sun was out and it felt like spring although there are still several weeks of cool weather still ahead.

When most arrived we moved inside and our waitress Jennifer took the drink orders which consisted of beers, margaritas, manhattans and sodas. We then ordered a few appetizers to share around the table and then the main course which consisted of seafood chowder, chilli, salad, steak tips, Guinness Beef Pie, Shrimp Scampi on Flatbread, Burgers and Ham and Cheese sandwich.

The meal was served quickly, small lunch portions but very good and the waitress was very attentive. Not a bad place to come for lunch. The décor included outside patio and large inside eating area with full bar with several TVs scattered about.

The conversation was lively as always and involved the latest news headlines. We talked about the Marathon Bombing and were all saddened by the horrific events. As of this writing, the suspects have been identified and captured (one dead and one alive). It is everyone’s hope that all the questions will be answered to why it all happened and if a larger group of terrorists was responsible. The outpouring of condolences and solidarity all over the world was astounding, “Boston Strong”.

We also talked a little about other things sports, trips, and gardens. Brother Time talked about his flying exploits and how he uses an iPad Program that helps plot flight plans and everything else you would want to know while flying a plane.

We also talked about airport security now with the bombing and also beforehand. Brother Tim told us a story about going to pick up a friend at Logan Airport several weeks ago. He was early and parked his car in the terminal general parking garage where there is a great view of the Traffic Control Tower and runways. As an avid pilot he has a radio that gets the airport frequencies where he likes to listen to the traffic controllers give directions to incoming and outgoing planes. As he listened on his radio and looked out at the runways from the parking garage, an airport security car pull up and asked what the “bleep” he was doing. He explained and the guard said he wasn’t supposed to do that. Brother Tim said that it was perfectly legal and he does it all the time.

He then left the garage area by himself and went to the arrivals area to meet his friend. When he got there some State Troopers came out of a side door and surrounded Brother Tim and told him “Don’t Move”. They questioned him and he told them who he was, gave them his identification and said he was meeting a friend. After some time they then let him go but waited until he met his friend and watched him leave.  It is nice to know that security personnel are vigilant but it’s also scary for innocent people to be hassled.

Jim then said he went to a Red Sox game in Boston with his grandson. He ordered the two for one hotdog with a soda and a beer. The beer was five bucks and came in a tiny cup. The prices keep going up and the sizes keep going down.

Jim then asked me about Jet Blue Park in Florida since I went to see a spring training Red Sox game in early March. I told him it was a great take in. Jet Blue Stadium is like a miniature Fenway Park but brand new. There were great views from all over the stadium and there were hawkers for food and drink walking up and down the aisles.  You could also go to the vender stands outside the stadium walls but inside the park property.  Like always, baseball is a money-making business and the prices were high.

There was a fence all around the stadium grounds and a turn style gate to show your ticket. However, inside the fence on the stadium grounds was a farmers market setup where you could buy fresh Florida produce at great prices. There was also a store to buy sports memorabilia like hats and shirts. I had to buy a special “Red Sox - Spring Training” hat for $25. I know I could probably buy one back home at TJ Maxx for under $10 but it’s not the same.

We then talked about where to eat next time and several suggestions were given. Jim will send you an email shortly.

Comments are always welcome ….  Markryan82@comcast.net

Romeo Lunch 3-20-13

The Romeo gang met for lunch this month on Wednesday, March 20 at Ristorante Villa Francesca in the North End. Ristorante is located at 150 Richmond Street. Go to www.restaurantweekboston.com for more information. Those present were Jim Terlizzi, Joe Lapiana, Joe Pignatiello, Mark Ryan, Ed DeSchuytner, Paul Girard and Steve Winter.

We all travelled to the North End by different routes. Joe P. and Steve came by car and found a parking spot a block away. Ed parked at a garage on Atlantic Ave. Jim took the subway and Joe L., Mark and Paul took the commuter train to North Station and then walked over to the North End. Paul took the Newburyport train and Joe and I took the Lowell train.  You can see photos of the trip at the Picasa web site ………….. 

https://plus.google.com/photos/108806068200291783388/albums/5858309247178661393?banner=pwa&gpsrc=pwrd1#photos/108806068200291783388/albums/5858309247178661393?banner=pwa&gpsrc=pwrd1

Joe L. met me in Wilmington and we bought train tickets at the local corner store. The price for one way senior citizens is half price or $3.35 from Wilmington to North Station.  Joe and I found the last parking spot for my SUV at the train parking lot for $4.00 and waited on the platform across the tracks.

I thought something was wrong when a maintenance truck appeared on the train track just before the train arrived on the opposite side. We put on our running shoes and quickly ran to the other side of the tracks to catch the train. Huffing and Puffing, the train conductor said he would have waited. Was this the start of a memorable day? Well, on the way back I found $6.00 on the sidewalk near North Station which paid for the train ride and made up for the morning mad dash.

Joe and I got to North Station early and we walked over to the North End across the Rose Kennedy Greenway and down various side streets over to Hanover Street. As we walked, Joe spoke about the North End and pointed out where some of his family lived many years ago. We stopped at the St. Joseph’s Society Hall and went inside. Jim Matarano was cleaning up from the St. Joseph’s Day banquet held the previous day. The society is 100 years old this year. Joe P. is also a member and sometimes tends bar there.

We looked at some of the framed photos on the wall and Jim and Joe reminisced about the good old days and the St. Joseph feast and parade. Joe pointed to a framed photo on the wall which showed his father in 1925 as one of the early members of the Society. They then told the story of the little girl dressed as an angel hoisted on a wire over the parade route. The wire snapped and the girl fell into the arms of the St. Joseph Statue below. The miracle of the little angel lives to this day.

We also walked by other landmarks with other stories to tell. St. Steven’s Church, St. Leonard’s, the North Bennet St. School, Sacred Heart Church, famous restaurants, Mike’s Pastry, and the local Groceria. Joe had a story about each one. It was nice to listen about his family memories. On the way home Paul, Joe L. and Mark stopped at Mikes Pastry to take home a few delicacies.

It was Restaurant Week in Boston, so you could get a three course lunch for $20.13. There were a lot of choices on the menu for the Antipasti, Prima and Dolce. You can see the Lunch Menu at ………  http://www.restaurantweekboston.com/restaurant/ristorante-villa-francesca/#

Our waiter’s name was Ernesto and he was originally from Salvador. He spoke several languages but mostly Italian which he practiced everyday with the cook. He was very attentive to our table even while waiting on three other tables. We ordered drinks to start which consisted of wine, cocktails, beer or soda. We thought about ordering a bottle of wine for the table but it was way too expensive. You can see from a picture of the wine menu (Picasa Web Site) that a bottle of their top wine reserve was $450. This is a little rich even for the Royal Romeos.

Ernesto quickly brought the drinks, some fresh bread and oil for dipping as we browsed the Menu. We then ordered our choices for the three course meals. The portion sizes were small but filling for lunch.  For the Antipasti, we ordered the Caprese Tomato Salad or the Steamed Mussels in white or red sauce. The Main meals were Penne, Broccoli with Chicken, Penne Piccato with Veal and Chicken Cacciatore.  We then had dessert which was either a cannoli or cream brulee. All the items were excellent and delicious. We ended the meal with cappuccino and coffee. The Ernesto filled the Cannoli at the table and added the toppings as desired. It was a nice touch to the freshness of the food.

The conversation was lively as usual and bounced around the table. We talked about cars, movies, trips, politics and the new Pope. We all thought that The Cardinals should have picked a younger Pope but hoped for the best. We also thought that the Catholic Religion and others were in trouble with the new society of young people and needed to do more to reach out to them. I joked that my daughter bought me a pair of red sneakers for my birthday and I named them my Pope Shoes, since he is not wearing his anymore.

It got to be late and we tentatively picked a restaurant in Salem next time. Jim will send emails and let you all know.

Comments and suggestions always welcome…..  markryan82@comcast.net

Romeo Lunch 2-21-13

The Romeo Gang had lunch on Thursday 2-21-13 at the La Siesta Restaurante located at 70 Woodside Ave. in Winthrop, MA. You can see a menu at the web site below  …. Go to www.lasiestarestaurante.com for more information.

The eight Romeos present were Paul Girard, Joe Lapiana, Steve Winter, Jim Sicuso, Joe Pignatiello, Jim Terlizzi, Mark Ryan and Ed DeSchuytner.  You can see some photos at the link below ….. https://plus.google.com/photos/108806068200291783388/albums/5847882154664422785?banner=pwa&gpsrc=pwrd1#photos/108806068200291783388/albums/5847882154664422785

Thank God for GPS cause the streets in Winthrop are all one way and narrow. Parking was limited with one hour on the street near the restaurant and a parking lot in back. I parked in back with one spot left and had to wait for a delivery truck to exit the lot after dinner. The others parked out front at one hour and the waiter at the restaurant said that they never ticket. Lucky this time no-one got tagged.

I arrived shortly before twelve noon and Ed and Joe L. were already having the Grand Margarita in a huge cocktail glass. I’ll have one of those was my reply when the waiter asked. The drink was quite good. As others arrived the waiter got various beers and sodas. I later commented that my brother-in-law makes frozen margaritas by the eye ball method (two jiggers each of tequila, triple sec, margarita lemonade mix and a glass of ice) in a blender for 30 seconds. Yum Yum.

We were all seated at a long table in the back as the waiter brought drinks and some nachos with salsa for the table. We also ordered some other appetizers to share. After, we ordered the main entrees which included steak, chicken and fish fajitas.  Everything was very tasty and large portions.

The conversation was lively as always and bounced around the table. We talked about buying new cars or leasing, the new flat less tires, oil change kits, GIC insurance, wines, trips, and science fairs.

Jim S. said that he went for dinner in Boston and then later to the Wine Expo. Although the tickets were $100 a pop, you could sample all the wines for free. After 20 samples he lost count but was feeling pretty good. He talked about some of the expensive wines that he enjoyed and other at the table commented their likes and dislikes. After the tasting, Jim went to leave and get his jacket which he had checked. There was a huge crowd of 200 people ahead of him. He went over to the VIP table and asked if the concierge could get his jacket for a small tip. He said sure and quickly returned with the jacket but refused the tip. There are still some nice people.

Ed talked about looking at new BMWs and the new “flat-less” tires. Supposedly you can drive on a flat (hard rubber inside) for 50+ miles before changing the tire. However, at the dealer you need to get two new tires to keep the balance correct at $300 a pop. What happened to the $5.00 re-treads that I used to put on my first car in the 1960s.

Ed also said he bought an oil changing kit for his car. Supposedly the under carriage of the car has a protective cover that makes it hard to change oil and get at the drain plug unless you have the right tools. The kit has a hand pump where you suck old oil out of the dip stick and then replace it with new oil. The oil filter is also up top and easier to replace. Ed bought the kit on-line for about $80.

Unless you have a real old car you can’t even tune-up the car any more or do your own repairs. Everything is computerized. That’s the price of modernization.

Jim S. was telling me that Medford HS now has a new principle that came from Revere where Jim works. I guess he is trying new administrative procedures in Medford that the faculty isn’t too keen on. The new guy always has to put his spin on things.

Joe L. will soon be selecting a new health plan. He had Blue Cross but the town he retired from is switching to GIC. He was asking about what the best combination of GIC plans would be. We all suggested the GIC with OME for those who also have Medicare.

I’m sure there were a lot of other topics that were discussed but that’s all that I remember. You know “Old Age and All”.

Lastly, it was mentioned that even though we send email to a lot more people, only the regulars mostly show up. We all have busy lives and move in different directions but it would be nice to see some of the other retirees.

Comments always welcome…..  markryan82@comcast.net

Romeo Lunch 1-16-13

The Romeo Gang had lunch today at Turner Seafood in Melrose, MA. See the link below…

Go to www.turners-seafood.com for more information.

I was not able to attend the lunch since I had a bad cold and five inch of slushy snow on the driveway. I also had planned to pick up Steve Winter in Belmont but heard the roads and traffic were bad in that direction and canceled. Well hope spring will be here soon. On the good side, I will be going to Florida for a few weeks in March to see a Red Sox Game and beach fishing. Can’t wait.

However, I got the scoop on the lunch event from our “On the Scene - Roving Reports” (Jim Terlizzi, Ed DeSchuytner and Joe Lapiana) and used their comments in this blog.  Since Joe L. gave the best description of the lunch, I just copied his comments below. Thanks a bunch Joe, Jim and ED !

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Hi Mark,

The lunch at Turner Seafood Grill in Melrose went well. In attendance were Paul Girard, Jim Terlizzi, Jim Sicuso, Joe Lapiana, Bob Simmons, and Ed Deschuytner. The roads were open and just wet. Paul G, Jim Sicuso and I had baked stuffed Shrimp with a Lobster cream sauce,
vegetables and rice or onion rings. Jim T had baked Hake Almondine. Ed D had Pasta with Seafood, Bob S had a Crab Cake sandwich. Most started with clam chowder and I started with a salad of field greens with an outstanding balsamic dressing. Service was excellent and portion sizes large for lunch. When we arrived while waiting to be seated the bar tender who was trying some new drinks asked us to taste and give him feedback.. Of the three drinks sampled we felt two were too sweet and only one a Blue Curaçao Margarita was good. All the drinks had a tropical twist. The conversation was lively as usual and ranged from the iPhone 5, to travel, the Patriots and how difficult it is to be a teacher or administrator in this crazy world with school shootings!  The February luncheon will be at a Mexican restaurant in downtown Winthrop called La Siesta. It will be on Wednesday. I think on February 20^th. Jim T will send out reminders. Hope you feel better and this helps you with your blog

.......,Joe

Comments Always Welcome……..  markryan82@comcast.net