To All Our Friends and Neighbors:

On Thursday 1/15 a fire struck 303 First St. Our shop was destroyed and eight families were left homeless. The outpouring of quick action, kindness and support from our friends and neighbors has been overwhelming.

Thanks first to Oscar who called 911 and helped evacuate the building. Next, to Mayor Roberts who happened to pass by with his wife Anna. He ran into the burning building to get people out. “Once a firefighter always a firefighter,” he told us the next day. Huge thanks and “hugs” to Battalion Chief John O’Brien and all the men of Group A with a special shout out to Firefighter Kolmer. They saved lives – human and animal – and the building. Everyone, including Cleo our dog, got out safely. Thanks to the Hoboken Volunteer Ambulance Corps for medical care. And to the OEM team. Everyone was kind, compassionate, professional and brave.

Thanks to those who came running to provide for immediate needs: hugs, shoulders, cups of tea. Nick (Gino’s Barbershop), Scott (John’s butcher) Ronnie, Sissi, Kevin B., Mark, Jaron, Anthony (Fils Pizza), Renee (Marie’s Bread), Maureen Brennan. To Scott and Jim for the day after; Patty (Piccolo’s,) Luis (Luca Brasi’s,) Alan (Counterfit), Janice (Typeworks), Joe Spano, Bob London, Al (Skyline) and many others. Kris for the loan of her computer and all around support. Profound gratitude to Mary Ann and Billy of Gotham City, the managers of 303 First St. for their tireless efforts. Huge thanks to Steve Kilnisan of Traders of Babylon for office space at 259 First St. His kindness is an inspiration. And to Kadir for putting up with us. Thanks to United Synagogue, All Saints, Tony from Redeemer Church, Todd (Maxwell’s) and all our customers for reaching out.

The firefighters of Group A rescued three cats and brought them to Hoboken Animal Hospital for medical attention. All three cats survived. The most seriously ill was Ellie, our shop cat, who suffered from other medical problems, Our daughter, Sophia, is particularly grateful to the animal lovers who helped Ellie – Dr. Kelly with the generous support of Robin. Ellie was adopted by Spencer and Kevin Gerard of A Friend in New York.

Our deepest thanks and profoundest respect to each of the nearly 50 artists in the Gift of Art show. Full House has functioned as an art gallery for almost 20 years. The beauty and magic of the show was remarked on by all who entered our humble little shop. Sad to report that the fire destroyed all the art. We can only hope that the beauty and magic of the Gift of Art can be doubled and tripled in the future.

After serving Hoboken for 25 years we sure know a lot of people. The response to this terrible fire has renewed our love affair with Hoboken and its surrounds. The support, encouragement, well wishes and positive thoughts of the community remind us why Hoboken is our kind of town. Thanks again to the Fire Department, Mayor Roberts, Steve Kilnisan and to all of you in our wonderful community. We are thankful beyond measure. Please come by to say hello.

Larry Weiss

Rosette Capotorto

Sophia Capotorto-Weiss

Full House Printing