I read an article titled "New London: 2,200 engineers and one fun city," published July 25, which explored the origins of the Italian grinder.

The article mentions Benedetto Capalbo. Correct.

It also mentions the New York Fruit Store. Correct.

A fact that may not be known to many people is that a group of staff members from Life Magazine arrived in New London many years ago and did a feature article about the origin of the Italian grinder.

The article more or less proclaimed Benedetto Capalbo as the true founder or creator of the Italian grinder.

Rosalie "Rose" Ferrante, who passed on a short time ago, was the niece of Mr. Capalbo. She maintained a scrapbook in which she kept all the pictures and articles in regard to the Italian grinder, especially the article from Life Magazine. I'm sure that her family keeps this precious property in a safe place.

Rose started working for her Uncle Benny at a very young age, mastering the art of creating the most delicious grinder I have ever eaten.

When she retired many years ago, I began to look for a grinder that could equal one of Rose's grinder. I'm still looking.

Sure, there are a lot of good grinder sandwiches out there in the food world, but you know what? On Shaw Street many years ago, out of a little red brick building called the New York Fruit Store, came the greatest grinder I have ever known.

I know there are many old friends waiting for one more of Rose's grinders. Save one for me. Hot peppers? Yes, Rose, just a little.

Editor's note: The writer resides in New London.