My grandmother was born in little italy in 1892 .. myself the oldest of six children i can tell you my biggest thrill was going to that feast every year .. my father a now retired nyc fire lietenant worked forever so that he could afford to take us ..so that we could be together as a family ..and that is what italians are all about ..the family ....and that is what these feasts are all about ..to honor the saints of the church ..the culture of italian americans ...and the family .. and might i add no one mugged little old ladies or took what wasnt theirs and had respect .. yes who are the real racketeers .. god bless.. the church .. italian americans ( who fought for this country ..died for this country..and would never take a handout .. ) and god bless america