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Growing Up in the Butcher Shop: The Big Time / Grande Tempo

Ciao Amici,

           The month of July is a special time while growing up in the butcher shop.

We looked forward to the “Big Time.” Not only to celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, in Roseto, but also to celebrate a few family birthdays as well; Grandpop, cousin Johnny and myself.

     When I was very young, the Festival was held in the “dust bowl” where the Pius Football Field is today.  I have no recollection of my parents taking me there. All I remember is I went with my friends or as my Grandfather called us, “The Gang of Ha Slegato Laccio delle Scarpe“ (untied shoe laces.) We were about a group of twenty and we’d all go together. While growing up in Roseto it was a more trusting time back then; everyone new each other and looked out for one another.

      On Saturday of “The Big Time”, at high noon, one firework was launched to remind everyone about the fireworks that will take place later that evening. Mom, Aunt Theresa and Grandmom were busy in the kitchen making the home made pizzas and sausage with peppers for all the friends that would stop by to say hello. It was sort of like when you celebrate New Year’s Eve and take time to reflect on life and make resolutions for a better year than the last.  As the last firework would go off, we would hear, “summer is over. “ Well, summer may be over, but tomorrow is Sunday and Sia Maria’s family is coming to visit and we will enjoy our macaroni and gravy meat before the “Procession.” See you at “The Big Time!”

Grazie,

Joe 

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 others played only on kickoff or punt teams, but it did not matter. We were united.

One memory stands out in particular. When we played the Easton Trojans, we were warming up on the field when we realized that some of their players had driven themselves to the game. We were only 13 or 14 years old, and some of them looked 16. It did not matter. We won anyway on our way to the 1969 Little Royals CYO Championship. Moments like that reflected the confidence and toughness Dave inspired in us. He taught us not to be intimidated, not to make excuses, and always to believe in one another.

As the years went on, Dave remained much more than a former coach. When I started my catering business, he continued to be a mentor, offering wisdom with patience and kindness. He knew when to challenge me, when to encourage me, and how to guide without ever demanding recognition for himself. As a friend, he was a steady presence—a source of laughter, honesty, and strength. He showed up when it mattered, listened without judgment, and had a way of making people feel that they were never alone.

The lessons Dave taught, the courage he inspired, and the kindness he shared will continue to live on in every life he touched. His memory will be carried not only in sorrow, but also in gratitude, in stories, and in the countless ways he helped others become stronger, wiser, and more compassionate. For all he gave, for all he taught, and for the friendship he so freely shared, I will remain forever grateful. He will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and always cherished.

With love and gratitude,

Joseph  C. DeFranco