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Our Town

2016

RIDLEY

• Ridley Park • Ridley Township • Folsom • Holmes • Milmont Park • Woodlyn • Crum Lynn • Leedom & more!

Celebrating the People, Places and Events that make Ridley Special!

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OUR TOWN RIDLEY |

DELAWARE COUNTY NEWS NETWORK

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 21, 2016

LOCAL BUSINESS

Boeing celebrates 100th anniversary By Kathleen E. Carey kcarey@21st-centurymedia.com @dtbusiness on Twitter

Boeing employees gathered in a semi-shaded courtyard and the temperature wasn’t the only thing that was high as pride abounded during the company’s 100th anniversary celebration. The company is also celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Delaware County site this year as Boeing’s interest in the former Baldwin Locomotive site piqued in the 1960’s as the demand for the Chinook was heightened due to the Vietnam War. Today, 4,800 employees work there in the H-47 Chinook and the V-22 Osprey RIDLEY >>

programs, engineering labs and the Philadelphia Design Center. “It was a hundred years ago today that a four-page document set forth the articles of incorporation for, at the time, a company called Pacific Aero Products, soon to become the Boeing Co.,” David Koopersmith, vice president/general manager for Boeing Vertical Lift, said. “This new organization laid the groundwork for a century of innovation for generations of employees around the world. “And, on this site,” he said at the Ridley celebration, “we’re really proud to have people who are second and third generation Boeing employees. Our own Philadelphia site has been

at the heart of the innovation, the drive, the performance of this company.” The Boeing campus here once belonged to Baldwin Locomotive, which moved their Philadelphia operations to the suburban location in 1908. Also onsite was General Steel Casings Corp., which opened in 1931. Supporting the railroad industry, General Steel worked with Baldwin, Pullman, American Locomotive and American Steel Foundry. Baldwin closed in 1956, but Vertol Aircraft Corp. purchased the property a year later for $2.35 million with 10 percent down. Nine years later, the first Chinook began production in the factory along the Del-

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aware River as Boeing had been asked to increase production of the Chinook to 15 aircraft a month because of Vietnam. In 1997, the first V-22 Osprey had its first flight and delivery. By the end of 2000, 11 Ospreys had been produced. Koopersmith noted how aviation engineering legend Frank Piasecki began his company, Piasecki Aircraft, in the 1940s, which was acquired by the Boeing Co. in the 1950s. Like others at the company, the Owens family has three generations of Boeing employees. Chris Owens’ parents, Jack and Anne Owens, worked there before him. Owens worked at Boeing’s Ridley plant for 30 years, part in the machine shop and some with the United Aerospace Workers Union Local 1069. Now working for the union’s international office, he spoke of what that day meant for the workers. “It’s huge,” Owens said. “It’s huge. It’s 100-yearsold. Stability in a company, it’s almost unheard of nowadays, if you think about it.” He also spoke about what it’s been like to have multiple family members join the ranks. “I think it brings pride,” Owens said. “It’s funny but I hear aircraft out at my house and I still go out the door. If it’s a Chinook, I look up, I go, ‘Wow.’ “There’s still that pride,” he continued, “and I’m not the only one. There’s a lot of folks here who have two and three generations. It’s the intangibles of coming to work every day. It’s not just coming and (saying) ‘I like my job.’ It’s the pride you have. It’s the pride of what we do for our troops.”

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The headquarters of the Piasecki Helicopter Corp. in Morton, the forerunner of Boeing. That pride was a commonality for all, Owens said, no matter what side of the bargaining equation one might find oneself. “And certainly being a union rep, we’ve had our differences but at the end of the day, we all have common goals and that’s why we’re lasting a hundred years,” he said. Owens’ son, John, continues that family legacy as he works as a union member in the materials management and flight testing area. “I worked there right out of high school,” the 25-yearold said. “I started there when I was 18.” He shared why. “(It’s a) great company to work for, the employment opportunity I couldn’t turn it down,” Owens said, noting that he’s directly or indirectly benefited from Boeing all of his life down to receiving its health care during that time. “It’s been a big part of my life for sure,” he said, confirming the multiple conversations over the dinner table that included shop talk and more about Boeing. He shared part of what

it means for him to work at the company now. “You have firsthand experience of how you can provide for your family like that and it gives you an idea of what the future can be,” Owens said. Others at the ceremony highlighted Boeing’s position as one of Delaware County’s largest employers. State Sen. Tom McGarrigle, R-26, of Springfield, was joined at the celebration by state Sen. Tom Killion, R-9, of Middletown. One of Killion’s first jobs was with the former U.S. Rep. Curt Weldon, R-7, as they lobbied during a critical time to save the V-22 program as questions arose about its performance with several fatalities in testing. The aircraft has since gone on to perform exceptionally in the terrains of Iraq and Afghanistan. McGarrigle recognized what Boeing means to Delaware County. “Boeing has always been one of the greatest employers we’ve had in Delaware County ... and we’re very proud to have them located BOEING » PAGE 10


WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 21, 2016

DELAWARE COUNTY NEWS NETWORK

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|  OUR TOWN RIDLEY | DELAWARE COUNTY NEWS NETWORK

SEPTEMBER 2016

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LOCAL BUSINESS

LOCAL LIFE

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Dr. Hala Zeeshan, D.M.D, is a family and cosmetic dentist providing highquality dental care to kids, adults and seniors in Delaware County. D r. Z e e s h a n’s dental office is located at 2183 MacDade Blvd., Holmes. A f ter graduating from Tufts Dental School, she has been working in Pennsylvania providing dental care to kids, adults and seniors in the Bucks, Mont-

Dr. Hala Zeeshan gomery and Philadelphia area. She is liked by her patients for her excellent dental work and painless experience that puts patients at ease during dental procedures, provid-

ing the best treatment possible in a comfortable, relaxing and friendly atmosphere. She is highly experienced in all areas of dentistry, root canals, dentures, crowns br idge, implant crowns, extractions, bone grafting and TMJ and believes it’s important to educate the patient on treatment options for long-term dental health. Dr. Zeeshan is also an Invisalign-certified provider and provides ortho treatment for

Florence Hugues, vice president and hospitality chairwomen of the Friendly Seniors, of Glenolden, left, sells 50/50 raffles with Friendly Seniors President Jean Porteous, of Holmes, right, during a get-together at the YMCA.

patients. Her dental practice uses state of the art technology and digital X-ray. The office takes all PPO insurance and cash patients. For cash patients, the office also provides payment plans through care credit. We also offer a 7 percent discount for seniors with age 65 years or older who do not have insurance. To accommodate patients busy schedule, the office has morning hours and evening hours.

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Friendly Seniors line up to keep in shape, have a good time through the gymnasium at the Ridley YMCA in Secane. A few dozen local ladies form lines in almostperfect sync, heel, toe, RIDLEY TOWNSHIP >> Lyrics do-si-do, turning and reof the country hit, “Boot peating again and again Scootin’ Boogie,” boom until the next tune fills the By Peg DeGrassa pdegrassa@21st-centurymedia.com @PeggyDe5 on Twitter

air and the dance moves take off in a different direction. The Friendly Seniors, a social and dance club, meet 12:30 to 2 p.m. every Thursday at the Ridley SENIORS » PAGE 5

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DELAWARE COUNTY NEWS NETWORK

Doing country line dancing at the Ridley YMCA k are Friendly Senior Club members, front from left, Dale Singley, of Springfield; Dolores Wilson, of Clifton Heights; middle: Marie Furness, of Woodlyn; back from left: instructor Cass McNamee, of Glenolden. Dolores Rodgers, of Glenolden; and Frances Hugues, of Glenolden.

Seniors FROM PAGE 4

YMCA . The only pre-requisite for joining the group is the desire to have fun and keep moving. “Anyone over the age of 50 is welcome to join the fun,” president Jean Porteous of Holmes, a member herself since 1983, explained last week. “We’ve been dancing and enjoying each other’s company for decades and we’re always open for newcomers.” At least 40 years ago, way before the current YMCA was even built, seniors met in an old house that stood on the same site at 900 South Avenue. The group formed as line dancing seniors and they have never let go of the tradition. “They named us the ‘Friendly Seniors’ because that’s exactly what we were then and still are now– outgoing and friendly,” vice president Florence Hugues of Glenolden chimed in with a smile. “This is a great group

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of people. If you’re down in the dumps and you come in here, you always leave feeling wonderful. There’s basically not an ounce of negativity in this room. Everyone is super nice and welcoming in our club.” Instructor Cass McNamee of Glenolden, who is 87 years young, led at least two dozen rhythmic seniors last week in coordinating their moves to “Winchester Cathedral,” “(You’ve Got) Personality,” followed by a full playlist of country songs. McNamee, a member of the club for 27 years, became the official in-

structor “by default” because no one else wanted to take the lead, she explained merrily, as she effortlessly glided across the gym’s floor. YMCA staffer Maureen Tropiano, a Secane resident, is the official DJ for the group, keeping the carefully-chosen tunes going non-stop. In addition to dancing, the Friendly Seniors enjoy a once-a-month luncheon at the Springhaven Country Club as well as occasional holiday parties at the YMCA. Member Bridget Hoey of Springfield said the club is

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pretty laid back and casual. She enjoys the other members’ company, as well as how the club keeps her moving and grooving. “You don’t have to be an experienced dancer to come,” Hoey explained. “It’s all fun and good exercise here. We dance and socialize and make new friends.” According to Porteous, the club costs only $15 per year for membership dues, $10 of which goes to the YMCA and the other $5 toward the monthly luncheons. To supplement the club’s kitty, members pay $1 each week that they attend and 50/50 tickets are sold for $1 each. About 20-25 seniors show up each week, although the club currently has a total membership of about 38-40. Although men are certainly welcome and encouraged to join the group, Porteous said, the club currently has all female members. Hoey, who has been a member of the club for two years, and Peg Solomon of Glenolden, a three year member, proudly pointed out Marie Furness, 90, of Woodlyn whom they proclaimed is the oldest member of the club.

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“She can outdance almost every one of us,” Hoey confided. Hoey and Solomon also noted that although most of the club’s members come from Delaware County, member Jacquelyn Roken drives all the way from Trenton, New Jersey each week to share in the fun. “Seniors don’t know what they’re missing by not being here,” laughed club member Angie Cellini, 84, of Springfield. “Everyone here is fun and friendly and very congenial. Nothing holds us down. We are the group on the go.” Asked how a potential member would go about joining, vice president Hugues, who also happens to be the hospitality chairwoman, was quick with the answer. “If interested, people can just show up any Thursday at 12:30 and give it a try for a week or even a few weeks to see if they like it. If they do, we will gladly welcome them into the Friendly Seniors as official members.” For more information, call Dee at 610-329-5382 or Cass at 610-461-4469.

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|  OUR TOWN RIDLEY | DELAWARE COUNTY NEWS NETWORK

SEPTEMBER 2016

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LOCAL BUSINESS

Capozzoli Catering celebrates 80 years of fine food By Peg DeGrassa pdegrassa@21st-centurymedia.com @PeggyDe5 on Twitter

Eighty years ago, way back in 1936, Anthony Capozzoli was whipping up some incredible tasting meatballs, pasta and other superior Italian dishes in the cafeteria at Baldwin Locomotive Works in Eddystone. Baldwin was riding a peak in the ‘30s and ‘40s and the cafeteria was busier than ever. Before long, employees, impressed by Capozzoli’s cooking skills, began saying things like, “Hey Tony, I’m having a little party. Can you make me a tray or two to serve?” Capozzoli Catering was founded in 1936, by Tony Capozzoli, in Chester. Tony and his wife Alice moved to Ridley Township in 1940, where they soon purchased a small property on Morton Avenue and opened Tony’s RIDLEY TOWNSHIP>>

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The Capozzoli Family members are pictured in earlier years: From left are Michael Capozzoli, Mariann Capozzoli, Alice Capozzoli, Tony Capozzoli, Ann (Caruso) Capozzoli, Ralph Capozzoli, and Ralph Speratore (Alice’s Brother). Restaurant. Tony’s Restaurant was a popular hangout for local businessmen and school children, and featured everyone’s favorite sandwich “The Tony Special.” The Capozzolis continued their catering busi-

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ness in the back of the restaurant. In 1952, with the help and expertise of wife Alice, Tony decided to fully engage himself to the off-site catering business, eventually making Tony’s one of the most well-known caterers in the tri-state area. Before long, the Capozzolis moved the restaurant to 123 MacDade Boulevard, directly across from where the Ridley Township Police Station is currently located. Their four children, Anthony, Ralph, Michael and Mariann could often be found working in the family business. Eventually, the Capozzolis sold the restaurant to Alice’s brother Al-

fred Mattera who kept the same name, so that they could concentrate solely on the catering side of their business, which by then, was growing as quickly as their good reputation was spreading. Tony Capozzoli passed away in 1990 and Alice Capozzoli in 1992, but not before passing down their popular recipes and work ethic to sons Ralph and Michael who by then had taken over the business. The family continued catering weddings, holiday parties, graduations, birthdays, showers, and every other imaginable event, working out of the basement of the family’s home on Lincoln Street in Folsom. In 2003, the family sold the Lincoln Street home to Commerce Bank, the forerunner of TD Bank, and Capozzoli’s Catering moved into the Ridley High School property at 801 Morton Avenue, Folsom, where they’ve leased space ever since. Today, Michael Sr., his sons Michael Jr. and Chris, and Ralph’s son Anthony, keep the business thriving and vibrant. Ralph Sr., who had worked tirelessly in the business since 1970, retired six years ago. Anthony is the catering manager. He earned a BA in Hotel and Restaurant Management from Widener University and joined Capozzoli Catering in 1996. Like his

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father Ralph, Anthony is a people-person and coordinates a staff that adheres to the Capozzoli family’s standard of excellence. Chris, the eldest son of Michael, is a graduate of St. Joseph’s University with a BA in Food Marketing. He joined Capozzoli Catering in 1998, bringing with him a talent to stay on top of trends and bring fresh ideas to the team. Rounding out the Capozzoli team is Michael Jr., who is a graduate of Johnson and Wales University with a BA in Culinary Arts. The youngest son of Michael Sr.., Michael Jr. jointed the team in 2003. He interned with several well-known restaurants, hotels and caterers and brings his talents and knowledge of current food trends to the family business. The business name was changed from Tony’s Catering to Capozzoli Catering in 1995. “We have a legacy to continue to live up to our family’s good name,” explained Michael Jr., who has brought many new touches and ideas into the business. “We want to make our parents and grandparents proud. We work really hard because we know it’s an honor to be carrying on my grandparents’ dream. I feel really lucky to have had the opportunity to go work in an already success-

linda’s cou

ful business, but I also have a responsibility to keep up its good name.” Michael Sr. echoed his son’s remarks. “I am very proud of my sons and nephew, that they’ve continued this family legacy,” he stated. “My mom and dad would be extremely thrilled that their grandsons are following in their footsteps.” In addition to their thriving catering business, the Capozzoli Family opened three high-quality, firstrate banquet halls: the Lazaretto Ballroom, 99 Wanamaker Ave., Essington; the Red Clay Room, 423 Dalmatian Street, Kennet Square; and the Executive Banquet and Conference, 205 Executive Drive, Newark, Delaware. From 2004-07, the Capozzoli family also owned Capozzoli’s Restaurant and Bar in Chadds Ford. The Lazaretto Ballroom is named after the Historic Lazaretto Quarantine Hospital whose original building is located just a few hundred feet away. The beautiful Ballroom, used for all kinds of special events, is surrounded by a picturesque garden and park setting. Opened in 2008, the Ballroom is 5400 square feet and is loaded with special features, including a large wooden dance floor, oversized restrooms, more than 200 parking spaces, CAPOZZOLI » PAGE 9

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DELAWARE COUNTY NEWS NETWORK

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|  OUR TOWN RIDLEY | DELAWARE COUNTY NEWS NETWORK

SEPTEMBER 2016

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PLACES

Church looks ahead to new building, expanding congregation By Peg DeGrassa pdegrassa@21st-centurymedia.com @PeggyDe5 on Twitter RIDLEY TOWNSHIP >> Back in

the 1960s, John Cartwright was dating his high school sweetheart Thelma Themens, both members of Sharon Hill High School Class of 1964. Cartwright, just like the others in his family, was an outstanding athlete for Sharon Hill, shining in football, basketball and baseball. Thelma, would of-

ten bring Cartwright to her church, Maranatha Tabernacle in Darby. One Sunday, Thelma, who would eventually marry Cartwright, invited her then-boyfriend to a special service, where guest speaker Dr. Hal Webb TALKED about being saved. Cartwright said it was on that day, as a 15-year-old boy, he found Jesus Christ in his heart. “Since that very day, God has led me on an amazing journey of faith,” Cartwright, the pastor of Cal-

vary Independent Baptist Church in Ridley Township, reflected last week. “I was commissioned as an officer in the U.S. Navy, served my country for five years, including one tour of duty in Vietnam, attended Liberty Baptist Seminary in Lynchburg, Virginia, and became head football coach at what is now Liberty University. Following this amazing opportunity, God called my wife and I and our four children back to Delaware County where we grew up.”

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Pastor John Cartwright is pictured during an interview this week at his office inside the Calvary Independent Baptist Church which he founded in 1977. The church will celebrate its 39th anniversary this Sunday, Sept. 11, with special services planned. It wasn’t long after that Cartwright founded the Calvary Independent Baptist Church in 1977. Five years later, he purchased the building at 716 Amosland Road, that once housed Ridley School District’s Kedron Elementary School, made some modifications to the structure, and the church has thrived there ever since. On September 11, Calvary Independent Baptist Church of Delaware County will celebrate its 39th year. Located in the Morton post office section of Ridley Township, the autonomous church boasts a congregation of about 75, coming from all over the county. As part of the celebration, the guest preacher will be Dr. Ed Hindson, the Dean of the John Rawlings School of Divinity at Liberty University in Lynchburg, VA. Dr. Hindson is also the speaker on the internationally televised program, “The King is Coming” and is the author of more than 40 books. He will be conducting a Bible Prophecy Conference for the anniversary services,

speaking on the scriptures which reveal the signs of the times and the message of the second coming of the Lord Jesus Christ. Sunday Services are 9:45 a.m., 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. The meetings will also include special music and testimonies of God’s amazing grace during the past 39 years. Nursery and children’s classes will be available at all of the services. Each person attending the services will receive a commemorative gift in honor of the church’s milestone. The community is invited to join the special anniversary event as Calvary unites together to praise the Lord and celebrate almost four decades. Pastor Cartwright, who recently celebrated 48 years of marriage to wife Thelma, looks forward to many more years in his ministry at Calvary Independent Baptist Church. With a leaky roof and many other repairs needed on the building which was originally constructed in 1875, the church will soon get a new home. Cartwright

said he hopes to construct a new building, right in the parking lot of the current church, by the end of 2017. “I took a leap of faith when we opened here and we are about to do it again with the new church. We need the new one if we are going to move forward,” he explained. “This is a huge step for us. Our congregation will put their faith into action and make a commitment to the Lord. God will provide and show us the way.” Cartwright’s faith has rippled not only out to the community, but to his own children as well. His daughter Donna Dilliplane is the church secretary and piano player at Calvary, and his son-in-law Kip is a deacon. Son John Jr. is the Associate Dean of the School of Divinity at Liberty University and he trains pastors. Daughter Jenny Wilen is director of children’s ministry at Gateway Church in Staten Island, New York and son Tim is youth pastor at Temple Bible Church in Temple, Texas. The CartCHURCH » PAGE 10


DELAWARE COUNTY NEWS NETWORK

| OUR TOWN MEDIA    | 9 A

Capozzoli FROM PAGE 6

a bridal suite with private bathroom and a convenient location, just a stone’s throw from Ridley, where the Capozzoli family calls home. The entire family still lives in Ridley Township, and Chris lives in Ridley Park. “Our family could have moved any where,” explained Michael Sr., “But we chose to stay in Ridley because we are rooted here and have been a part of this community all our lives. We are lifelong Delaware County residents and we love our communities here.” The family’s business currently employs over 60 people. The Capozzoli family works seven days per week, even holidays. The largest portion of their catering business is corporate catering, servicing some big names including Herr’s, Monroe Energy, Sunoco and PECO. Capozzoli Catering continues to cater private parties and events, as well as host barbecues. Customers can request pickup, delivery and servers. Michael Sr. said he feels very fortunate that their multi-generation family business has grown large, mostly from word-of-mouth recommendations. Over the years, the Capozzolis have catered events for up to 10,000 people, including many well-known celebrities, musicians, professional athletes and politicians. “We have always done very little advertising. People have come to know us because from my father on down, we all have been active in the community. My father was one of the charter members of the Ridley Township Business Association,” explained Michael Sr., who has served on the Ridley School District School Board for 38 years. He has been president of the Board for the past 16 years. Michael Jr. said the busi-

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The staff and administration of the Lazaretto Ballroom in Essington are pictured at the Lazaretto’s recent Italian Night, a sold-out annual event. ness has changed in recent years because people seem to be much busier. Although some people still need catering when they rent halls at churches, VFWs, schools and other venues, most people want an “all-inclusive” venue like the Lazaretto or Red Clay Room, where they can walk in and everything is taken care of and ready for them. He said computers and social media have also changed the business immensely, because menus and other details are now available online and can be easily accessed or altered. When asked how else the catering/restaurant business has changed in the years since his grandparents catered from their basement, Michael Jr. said, without a doubt, menus have changed and people’s tastes have become much more refined and expanded. Previously, customers would want basic food, like roasted chicken and potatoes, but now the menu is much more gourmet, including the appetizers, entrees and desserts. Michael Sr. and Michael Jr. explained that most

weddings used to be buffet- special events. style dinners, but now most “As far as venues go, we are sit-down. Couples usu- always say ‘Come and see ally will book their halls what we offer.’ Our food is 8-12 months out because weddings take much more planning these days, they said, with many more details than “in the old days.” “We used to hold our wedding appointments with the bride and groom in my mom’s kitchen,” Michael Sr. laughed at how informal things used to be. “People would just make their food choices and then pay us on the day of the wedding.” Recently, a couple who had their wedding at the Lazaretto Ballroom emphasized to the Capozzoli family how important the carrying on of their legacy really is, Michael Sr. explained. The bride, married in 2016, stood inside the Lazaretto Ballroom with her grandparents whose wedding was catered by the Capozzolis 59 years ago and her parents whose wedding was catered by Capozzolis 32 years ago. Michael Sr. said he feels exceptionally proud of the company’s banquet halls and the role they play in local families’ and companies’

exceptional, our service is friendly, our staff is accommodating, our places are spotlessly clean and taste-

Larry Smith

fully decorated and our prices are decent and fair. In fact, many customers are pleasantly surprised when they check us out,” Michael Sr. explained. “For 80 years, we have been serving this community with excellent food and superior customer service. Our family has built this business on serving delicious food, valuing our customers and our community, and preserving our traditions and good family name. We are very proud to be celebrating our eightieth year in business.” (For information on Capozzoli Catering, call 610-532-5704 or e-mail info@capozzolicatering. com/; on the Lazaretto Ballroom, 484-494-5060 or info@lazarettoballroom.com/; the Executive Banquet and Conference, 302-731-1899 or info@executivebanquets.com/; The Red Clay Room, 610-4443573 or info@redclayroom. com/.)

Paul Gabriele

Dougherty AUTO SALES LarryS@DoughertyAutoSales.com PaulG@DoughertyAutoSales.com

(610) 586-2970 Fax: (610) 586-7215 www.doughertyautosales.com 156 Kedron Avenue Folsom, PA 19033

INC.

SEPTEMBER 2016


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SEPTEMBER 2016

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Church

Boeing

FROM PAGE 8

FROM PAGE 2

wrights now have 15 grandchildren. When Cartwright was at the U.S. Naval Academy, he was quarterback from 19651967, succeeding All American and Heisman Trophy winning quarterback Roger Staubach. Years later, the minister was inducted into the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame. Cartwright is still a football fanatic, and attends games for both Interboro and Ridley Schools. He especially enjoys the Thanksgiving Day high school football game that pits the two rivals in a traditional match. “I enjoy getting out into the stands to watch the kids play sports and meet more people in my community,” Cartwright shared. The pastor said he still knocks on doors to give locals a personal invitation to visit his church and come to know Jesus Christ. “Please consider this a personal invitation from us to visit our church sometime soon. We would consider it a great blessing to have you with us and we will do our best to make you feel perfectly at home here,” reads part of an invitation which Cartwright distributes to those he meets. The church holds Sunday day and evening services, as well as adult Bible Study, Sunday School for all ages, a Wednesday evening service,

in Delaware County,” he said. “We’ve always appreciated the great job they’ve done.” Michael Tolassi, president of the UAW Local 1069 that represents 1,400 Boeing workers, commended the praise company leadership was extended to its workforce. “I feel that our UAW 1069 employees are important because we build the best products in the world,” he said. “We helped

the Boeing Co. to succeed to reach this 100-year milestone and I’m looking to another 100 years. I won’t be here, but for the next generation.” Koopersmith said at day was a day for all Boeing employees. “Every one of you should be absolutely proud of the work we do together and what we talk about in protecting heroes and saving lives,” he said. “So today, we are commemorating our stewardship. The baton has been passed to us. We’re gripping the baton, strongly in our grasp, and yes, every one of us gets

ERIC HARTLINE — DIGITAL FIRST MEDIA

Osprey V-22 flying over the Delaware River near the Boeing headquarters in Ridley Township. to be a part of that baton handoff.”

PEG DEGRASSA – DIGITAL FIRST MEDIA

Pastor John B. Cartwright of Calvary Independent Baptist Church stands in front of the sign outside his church at 716 Amosland Road in Ridley Township. youth and children’s ministries, Vacation Bible School and nursery and pre-school. Cartwright said the church is proud of its active teen ministry, where movies and other teen-friendly activities are often planned to keep younger people active and involved. Calvary also offers a Transportation Ministry that picks people up and brings them to church services and events in a van. “Since our church’s beginning in 1977, it has been our purpose to introduce people to our wonderful Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, and help people to understand His message of Hope and Faith,” Cartwright explained. “When life becomes confusing, it is

our faith that anchors us and shows us the way. As people come to know Christ as Savior, we want them to grow in their faith and become dedicated servants of the Lord, who will carry the message of His love to the world in need. Our church is very welcoming. It is our prayer that many in the community will accept this invitation and join us on this exciting journey of faith with Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” For more information about Calvary Independent Baptist Church at 716 Amosland Ave., Morton, call 610-357-1509 or 610328-4330, e-mail calvaryibc@verizon.net or visit www.cibc.org/. Our Home Care Staff Provides Companion Care to our Neighbors, Friends and Loved Ones in their Home Setting Supporting, regaining and maintaining their Independence.

Companion Care 24/7 • Transportation Nutritional, Exercise & Wellness Support Dementia and Alzheimer’s Care • And Much More!

For a free in-home consultation, call JoAnn Pola at 610-390-9686 215-350-1899 or email joannpolarn@yahoo.com www.kindheartedcare.com

Kind~Hearted Care, Inc. is PA Licensed, Fully Bonded and Insured.

ERIC HARTLINE — DIGITAL FIRST MEDIA

This 1958 aerial view of land near the Delaware River predates the Boeing plant and I-95


SEPTEMBER 2016

DELAWARE COUNTY NEWS NETWORK

| OUR TOWN RIDLEY    | 11 A

SUBMITTED PHOTO

A Boeing Chinook helicopter sits on the tarmac at the Ridley plant. The copter has long been the workhorse of the Army. Former UAW 1069 president Chris Owens stands with his son, Chris Owens Jr., an aide to state Rep. Nicholas Miccarelli, R-162, of Ridley Park. The Owens’ family has had three generations work in Boeing’s Ridley plant. KATHLEEN CAREY — DIGITAL FIRST MEDIA

Michael Tolassi, president of the United Aerospace Workers Union Local 1069, enjoys the water ice at Boeing’s 100th birthday party. KATHLEEN CAREY — DIGITAL FIRST MEDIA


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OUR TOWN RIDLEY |

DELAWARE COUNTY NEWS NETWORK

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 21, 2016

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