[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 153 (2007), Part 13]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 18026]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                  HONORING THE LIFE OF JOSEPH TORCASO

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. PAUL RYAN

                              of wisconsin

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, June 27, 2007

  Mr. RYAN of Wisconsin. Madam Speaker, last week, Kenosha, Wisconsin, 
lost a longtime community leader--Joseph Torcaso, who has run Torcaso 
Shoe Repair shop on 52nd Street for over 60 years. A lifelong resident 
of Kenosha, he started learning the shoe repair business from his 
father in 1937, at the age of 9, and his shop is one of the touchstones 
of the Kenosha community. Joe passed away on Friday.
  Everyone knew and liked Joe, and his lively wit and sense of humor 
brightened countless people's lives. He was known as the ``Mayor of 
52nd Street'' or, by some, as the ``Oracle of 52nd Street'' for his 
knack at forecasting political victors.
  More than just an exceptionally skilled craftsman and a small 
business owner, Joe was a man of great character. He helped give 
Kenosha its strong sense of community, and the city will sorely miss 
this devoted family man and friend who lifted so many customers' 
spirits. Joe was also a great friend of mine, and I will miss him 
deeply.
  My thoughts and prayers are with his wife, children, and 
grandchildren during this difficult time.

                          ____________________