The Train Ride - a podcast by Tonya Russo Hamilton

Welcome to Figs and Famiglia, a podcast that shares stories of the Italian American experience. My name is Tonya Russo Hamilton, and today we are continuing our series in which we are delving into the story of Antonio Russo and his journey from Naples, Italy as a young boy in 1951. In this episode we will hear chapter ten from his book, 'Wrestling with the Devil; A story of Sacrifice, Survival and Triumph from the Hills of Naples to the Hall of Fame.' At this point in the story Tony is fourteen years old and he had just been reunited with his biological family in Brooklyn NY. By now he had gotten a taste of life in Portland, Oregon and to him it was similar to his life in Italy and he had also formed a strong bond with the family who had taken care of him during the time he was separated from his biological family —his Uncle Tony and Aunt Gladys, and baby cousin, Joey. Upon reuniting with his family Tony had a mission to convince them to move to Portland and he did accomplish this mission. And he wondered if he had gotten more than he bargained for as he found himself leading a caravan with his dad and uncle across the country. This chapter is appropriately titled, The Train Ride. So, With a suitcase in hand filled with provolone cheese, bread, and wine Tony makes yet another trip across the country.

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